The word “alkaline” in the term “alkaline water” essentially refers to the pH level of water. The term “pH” is a scientific term which essentially refers to the acidity or non-acidity of a liquid. All liquids have a pH, which is expressed on a scale of 0 to 14. Liquids with a lower pH (that is, closer to a pH of 0) are more acidic than liquids with a higher pH (that is, closer to a pH of 14).
For example, liquids with a pH lower than 7 (like coffee and vinegar) are acidic liquids, while liquids with a pH higher than 7 (like liquid soap and baking soda) are non-acidic liquids, which are also known as “alkaline” or “basic” liquids. Pure water has a pH of 7, which is considered neither acidic nor alkaline. Accordingly, alkaline water is water that has a pH greater 7 and is non-acidic. As discussed in more detail below, healthy alkaline water typically has a pH of 8 or 8.5.
Alkaline water is commonly believed to be beneficial to health. In particular, health advocates believes that alkaline water helps neutralize acidity in the body and thereby helps increase energy levels, slows the aging process, boosts the immune system, supports weight loss, detoxifies the body, cleanses the colon, rejuvenates the skin, supports the health of muscles and joints, and prevents numerous diseases, including cancer.
In fact, recent studies have found that alkaline water may benefit those with high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Moreover, other recent studies have found that drinking alkaline water neutralized acid in the bloodstream, leading to improved circulation and increased oxygen distribution throughout the body. Another recent study has also determined that drinking alkaline water can help fight or even eliminate acid reflux disease.