Water is crucial in sustaining nearly all functions in the human body such as digestion and circulation, temperature regulation and detoxification. A recent increase in the popularity of alkaline water as a healthier alternative to ordinary drinking water has been observed in recent years.
Most of the population has a view that it can enhance hydration, lessen acidity, and enhance the general well-being. Some of the claims are backed by the scanty scientific evidence; however, others are controversial. The concept of what alkaline water is and what its impact on the body is will help conclude whether this should really be part of its daily health regimen or not.
What Is Alkaline Water?
Alkaline water is water with a higher PH level than standard drinking water. According to the pH scale that has a range of 0 to 14, normal water is neutral with a pH of 7. A typical pH of alkaline water is 8.0 and 9.0. The increased alkalinity of water pH could be achieved naturally by means of water flowing through mineral-based rocks or through artificial means through filtration or ionization process.
Alkaline water is usually composed of calcium, magnesium and potassium besides pH. These minerals are said to be some of the contributors of some of its health-related attributes. It should be kept in mind, however that the body is very much regulated in terms of alkaline water pH level particularly the pH of the blood irrespective of whatever we consume.
Key Benefits Of Alkaline Water
A lot of individuals prefer alkaline water due to the health-promoting benefits of the water. In spite of the variation of the results, the following are some of the commonly reported alkaline water benefits:
- Better hydration: According to some studies, alkaline water can be absorbed more effectively, particularly, when one does a strenuous exercise.
- Balance of acids: It can provide assistance in the event of excess acidity due to inappropriate diet or stress.
- Intake of minerals: The existence of vital minerals helps the bone, the muscle, and the nerve.
- Digestive comfort: Part of the people claim that they have fewer heartburn or indigestion symptoms.
- Energy: Fatigue is also likely to be decreased by better hydration and maintaining daily energy requirements.
- Although these benefits may help in the alkaline water health as a whole, it must be considered complementary than transformational.
Alkaline Water Vs Regular Water
The main distinction between alkaline water and usual water is pH and mineral. Normal water is neutral and is completely effective in hydration. The alkaline water has minerals added to it and has a high PH, which some consider will provide extra benefits.
The amount of water required to satisfy the majority of the population is regular, and it sustains all the important body processes. The alkaline water can provide extra comfort to the person who is struggling with acidity or dehydration, yet it is not better in all situations. The quality of hydration is more related to consistency and the general diet and less to the type of water.
Who Should Drink Alkaline Water?
Depending on lifestyle and health requirements, alkaline water can be appropriate to the needs of some people. It is often considered by:
- Individuals who have acidity or heartburn frequently.
- Sportsmen or people who are physically active.
- Individuals who have a problem with hydration.
Nevertheless, patients with kidney diseases or problems with mineral levels must see a healthcare expert before taking alkaline water on a regular basis.
Read More: 7 Surprising Benefits of Water Birth
Are There Any Side Effects Or Risks?
The alkaline water is commonly thought to be safe but when consumed in excess or in an unhealthy way it can bring about undesirable consequences. A fine balance of acid and alkali is essential to the body, particularly in the digestive system. Excessive intake of alkaline water can disrupt this balance especially when taken in the long term without health care advice.
Risks and potential alkaline water side effects are:
- Diarrhea because of low stomach acid.
- Frequent bloating or nausea.
- Disruption of the normal digestive process and the uptake of nutrients.
- Potential mineral imbalance due to chronic overexistence.
By adopting a balanced drinking and substituting with frequent intake of normal drinking water, these risks can be minimized.
Natural Sources Of Alkaline Water
Natural alkaline water is normally obtained by springs where water is flowing over mineral-endowed land. These natural reactions add mineral content and elevate the level of pH without artificial treatment. Alkaline-forming foods (leafy greens, cucumbers, citrus fruits, etc.) are also beneficial in promoting internal balance in addition to water. A diet that is high in these foods is likely to give a more regular benefit when compared to taking alkaline water only.
How To Choose The Right Alkaline Water?
When choosing the alkaline water, one should not choose some products with over-the-top health promises. Other alkaline water myths argue that it can cure illnesses or radically alter blood pH, and this is erroneous. Select moderately pH water between 8 and 9 and look at the labels of natural minerals. Qualified quality benchmarks and supply chain transparency is more significant than branding or marketing lingo.
Conclusion
Alkaline water can be useful to a healthy lifestyle when wisely used. It can aid in hydration, supply minerals and give relief to people experiencing acidity. Nevertheless, it is not a magic medicine and ordinary water is still needed to quench daily thirst. It is a healthy way of benefiting and not having any unrealistic expectations of the alkaline water by their use in moderation and by understanding how it works and keeping to the balanced diet.
Please book an appointment with the Best Nutritionist in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find the verified doctor for your disease.
