Alkaline water has become a wellness trend, touted by some as a solution for everything from hydration to chronic disease prevention. But what does science really say about its effects on your body? This article cuts through the hype and explores what alkaline water is, how it’s claimed to affect health, what research suggests, and whether it should be part of your daily hydration strategy.
What alkaline water is and how it works
Alkaline water is water with a higher pH than regular drinking water (typically above 7 on the pH scale). Proponents argue that higher pH can neutralize acidic waste in the body, improve hydration, and reduce oxidative stress. However, the human body tightly regulates pH levels in blood and tissues regardless of the foods or fluids consumed. Organs like the lungs and kidneys maintain acid‑base balance through respiration and excretion, making the idea that alkaline water can meaningfully change systemic pH biologically unlikely.
How alkaline water is made
Commercial alkaline water is often produced through ionization, an electrochemical process that separates water into more acidic and more alkaline components. Manufacturers may also add minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which can raise pH. Some “natural” alkaline water occurs when water passes over rocks, picking up minerals that slightly increase pH. Regardless of source, the effect of alkaline water on overall body pH is limited by the body’s internal regulatory mechanisms.
