Alkaline water – what is it and how does it affect our health?

Wondering what alkaline water is, what its pH is, and whether drinking it actually benefits your health? Learn the scientific facts, practical tips, and the impact of alkaline water on detox, hydration, beauty, weight loss, nails, and hair.

What is alkaline water?

Alkaline water is water with a higher pH than traditional tap water. This means it is less acidic and more alkaline. Standard drinking water has a pH close to 7 – alkaline water usually falls in the pH range of 8-9, and sometimes even higher.

Many people who pursue a healthy lifestyle choose alkaline water, believing that drinking it has beneficial effects on the body. Water with a higher pH can be obtained naturally – from areas rich in minerals – or artificially obtained through various ionization processes. The most popular options are homemade, using a generator, or bottled, available in stores.

How does water pH work and why is it important?

pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a substance. The scale runs from 0 to 14 – the lower the value, the higher the acidity; the higher the value, the greater the alkalinity. Average drinking water has a pH between 6.5 and 8.5, but alkaline water often exceeds pH 8.

An alkaline environment is considered more beneficial to the body, although our bodies have their own mechanisms for regulating acid-base balance. Despite this, many experts point out that certain dietary habits, stress, and lack of exercise can shift this balance toward acidity. Drinking alkaline water can potentially counteract this.

Alkaline water and health - research and hypotheses

The primary benefit of drinking alkaline water is its ability to hydrate the body. Better hydration translates into improved organ function and improved well-being. Additionally, scientists are exploring other potential benefits associated with a higher pH.

• Antioxidant properties – Alkaline water contains more hydroxyl ions, which are natural antioxidants. They neutralize free radicals, delay the aging process, and may reduce the risk of lifestyle diseases.
• Supporting detox – Some experts claim that an alkaline pH promotes the removal of toxins, although conclusive evidence is lacking. Drinking clean, high-quality water is essential for effective detox.
• Better physical performance – Athletes experience faster muscle recovery after intense training, thanks to more effective hydration and neutralization of acidification.

Potential side effects

It's worth remembering that excess alkaline water can disrupt the body's natural balance. When consuming it regularly, it's important to monitor your well-being and avoid overdoing it.

Alkaline water and beauty: skin, nails and hair

It's not just internal health that benefits from proper hydration. People who drink alkaline water often notice improvements in the condition of their skin, nails, and hair.

• Skin – Good hydration promotes skin elasticity, prevents dryness, and reduces signs of fatigue and aging. The antioxidants in water can also protect cells from oxidative stress.
• Nails – Hydration is key to preventing nails from breaking and splitting. The minerals in alkaline water also strengthen them.
• Hair – The right amount of water, especially alkaline water, improves the nourishment of hair follicles and affects the shine, thickness and elasticity of hair.

Remember that no water – even alkaline water – can replace a healthy, balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.

The weight loss process and metabolism

Among the frequently cited benefits of drinking alkaline water are its weight loss support and improved metabolism. How does this work in practice?

• Feeling full – Drinking water before a meal helps reduce the amount of calories you consume.
• Improved digestion – Some studies suggest that increased pH may improve the activity of digestive enzymes. This promotes better breakdown of fats and carbohydrates.
• Better elimination of metabolic waste products – Proper hydration speeds up the removal of waste substances from the body; the more you drink, the faster you remove toxins.

Alkaline water can help you maintain a healthy weight, but it shouldn't be considered a magic bullet. For best results, combine it with physical activity and a healthy diet.

Practical tips – how to drink alkaline water?

There are several ways to introduce alkaline water into your daily routine.

• Natural springs – Mineral water with a high content of calcium, magnesium, potassium and increased pH.
• Alkalization devices – There are filters and ionizers available on the market that turn ordinary water into alkaline water.
• Home remedies – You can add a few drops of lemon juice or a pinch of baking soda to a glass of water; however, these treatments only have a temporary effect on the pH.

The most important thing is to check the quality of your water source and drink in moderation. The recommended daily fluid intake is approximately 1.5-2 liters, some of which may be alkaline water.

What is worth watching out for?

• Not everyone responds well to alkaline water, especially people with chronic kidney or stomach diseases.
• Children, pregnant women and the elderly should consult a doctor before changing their diet.
• Always monitor your body's reactions and do not overdo it.

Myths and Facts About Alkaline Water

When discussing alkaline water, it's impossible not to mention the myths that have accumulated. It's often credited with near-miraculous benefits. But what's the reality?

• Myth: Alkaline water neutralizes any acidity in the body . Our bodies regulate their own pH through our kidneys, bodily fluids, and breathing. Water with a higher pH can help, but it won't replace natural processes.
• Fact: Alkaline water provides minerals – Properly selected water can be a source of calcium, magnesium and potassium, which strengthen health.
• Myth: It is a panacea for every disease – There are no reliable studies confirming spectacular healing resulting from drinking only this type of water.

Who is alkaline water best for?

Active individuals who exercise and want to improve their hydration and appearance will experience the greatest benefits. Alkaline water can support weight loss and those living under constant stress and exposed to free radicals. It also works well in dry office air or air-conditioned spaces, where dehydration is more likely to occur.

However, not everyone should use it. People with kidney or gastrointestinal disorders, or those suffering from chronic illnesses, should be cautious about introducing new fluids into their diet, preferably under the supervision of a physician.

Check out our HUMIO alkaline water with humic acids and 77 minerals. We make it only with natural ingredients, no preservatives, and no colorants: https://wodahumio.pl/pages/o-produkcie-1

Summary

Alkaline water, thanks to its higher pH, can support hydration, detox, and beauty, positively impacting health, nails, and hair. However, moderation and awareness of your needs are key – drink sensibly, and water will become a daily ally to your health.