What is alkaline water?
The pH of water is neutral, around pH 7. Chemicals and gases can change this to make it more acidic or more alkaline.
Rainwater's pH is slightly below neutral, because there is carbon dioxide from the air, and this increases acidity.
Acidic substances have a pH of below 7.0, down to zero. The pH of vinegar is around pH 3, lemon juice around pH 2, and battery acid around pH 1.
Alkaline substances have a pH up to 14. Baking soda's pH is between pH 8 and 9, and milk of magnesia is between pH 10 and 11.
Benefits:
Might Aid Diabetes Treatment
Korean study conducted on rats states that alkaline water can reduce blood glucose levels.. It might also treat high cholesterol, which is often associated with diabetes.
Another study states that alkaline water might improve blood viscosity in diabetes patients, which, in turn, can enhance their overall health.
Other sources also claim how alkaline water can help lower blood sugar levels.
Can Boost Bone Health
Having elevated acid levels can weaken the bones over time, increasing the risk of fractures. Since alkaline water can reduce acid levels, it might help prevent this.
Some studies found that alkalinity, as a whole (and not alkaline water alone), could benefit bone health. The study looked at the overall diet of the population and concluded that a more alkaline diet could protect the bones.
Subjects who consumed alkaline water were found to experience less bone breakdown and a significant reduction in bone loss through urine. However, there is less research on alkaline water being good for arthritis or gout.
Might Aid Cancer Treatment
Some sources say that cancer cells thrive in acidic environments – and since alkaline water can neutralize acidity, it might help in cancer treatment. Some experts recommend following an alkaline diet, which includes alkaline water.
A few studies have also found that an alkaline environment can make certain chemotherapy drugs more effective and less harmful.. Other sources say that an alkaline diet can help reduce inflammation, which is one of the major causes of cancer.
Might Treat Acid Reflux
Alkaline water might neutralize stomach acid and relieve the symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn. It can have a buffering effect against hydrochloric acid, the stomach acid that aids digestion, and the excess of which can cause acid reflux.
Aids Detoxification
Though there are no studies that directly state the benefits of alkaline water in aiding detoxification, one study speaks of the importance of an alkaline environment for the same. The study states that the adjustment of tissue alkalinity can lead to more effective excretion of toxins from the body.
Might Treat Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by severe musculoskeletal pain and fatigue. Anecdotal evidence suggests that drinking alkaline water can reduce pain and improve energy levels. It can also make the muscles feel well lubricated.
Might Help Treat Skin Diseases
Drinking alkaline water might aid the treatment of skin diseases like eczema and psoriasis. It can also help with acne. Even bathing with the water (that might be an expensive affair, by the way) can nourish the skin and offer anti-aging benefits.
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