The pH Scale
Before we can understand what alkaline water is, it's important to first understand the pH scale, and how it ties into our overall health. All substances are considered either acidic, alkaline (basic), or neutral, and are placed on the scale from 0 to 14. Anything under a pH of 7 is considered acidic, and anything over a pH of 7 is alkaline. A healthy person will have a pH between 7.30-7.45.
What Even Is Alkaline Water?
Alkaline water usually has a pH of about 8 or 9. This can be any kind of drinking water that has been given minerals or artificial substances to increase the pH of the water. However, all alkaline water is not made equally. Natural alkaline water, alkalized with minerals, is the safest option for bottled alkaline water.
Why Is It Important?
Most people eat an incredibly acid rich diet. Because of this, we need more alkalinity in our water, to help neutralize the acidic pH of our bodies. Many health experts say that drinking alkaline water is much better for us than regular drinking water. Regardless, we should all be drinking alkaline spring water at least once a day.
Where Can You Find Alkaline Water?
The easiest way to have accessible pH water is by utilizing pH drops to increase the pH of your spring water.
Believe it or not, lemon juice is considered alkaline, once it is digested. Before, it is obviously acidic. However, drinking lemon juice is a great alternative to plain alkaline water, especially when you need a little flavor.
Bottled alkaline water is also an option, but it really isn't necessary. You can actually find it at most convenience stores and grocery stores.
The Dangers of Alkaline Water
The benefits of drinking alkaline water, far outweigh the dangers of it. However, I feel that it is important to share the dangers
Drinking too much alkaline water in too little of an amount of time can be harmful. Too high of an amount of alkalinity can throw off the pH of the body. This can actually lead to a condition called metabolic alkalosis, which is extremely rare in these cases, but it is possible.
If you must buy bottled alkaline water, it is best to stick to all natural alkaline water, instead of artificial, to avoid mineral deficiencies.
