Alkaline Water: What’s the Hype? (and the Science Your Body Already Knows)

Jal hi jeevan hai!!

This phrase has been unaffected by the evolution on this planet. Water was necessary then; it is necessary now, and it will be necessary tomorrow. But the need for water has surely evolved. From clean water to mineral water to alkaline water. You’ve spotted it on fancy bottles, influencer reels, and even gym shelves: Alkaline Water -  pH 9.5, detoxifies the body, increases energy, and fights aging.

A perfect Ad.

Sounds revolutionary, technical. BIOLOGICAL. Scientific and whatnot, right?

Our body is about 60% water on average, though this can vary by age, sex, and body composition. This single fact is enough to determine the high importance of water. And this same fact is also enough to confirm that our body has had its pH under control since the day we were born. Without a marketing campaign. Without a ₹200 bottle. The need is to drink clean/filtered water and keep your body hydrated enough so that your body functions smoothly. 

To understand this evolving need for water from clean to alkaline, we first need to understand what it is exactly.

What does “alkaline” mean?

You are going to miss your chemistry teacher today!

“Alkaline” is the opposite of “acidic.” That’s it

The term comes from the pH (power of hydrogen) scale used to measure how acidic or alkaline something is, on a scale of 0 to 14.

pH 7 = Neutral

pH < 7 = Acidic (like lemon juice or cola)

pH > 7 = Alkaline/basic (like baking soda or soap water)

Alkaline water, by contrast, has a pH between 8 and 10. But hold that thought. A higher pH doesn’t automatically mean “healthier.” We need to look beyond that. Because the human body doesn’t operate on marketing charts, it runs on chemistry.

The water pH - nature & science

Did you know, even in your wildest dreams, that water never had a pH of 7 naturally? The pH no. 7 is the result of a chemical constant, and not a choice made by nature, which means the neutral water pH is because of the equally present numbers of hydrogen ions (H+) and hydroxide ions (OH-) at the time of pH measurement. 

In its most “natural” form, water varies from pH 7 due to the presence of dissolved impurities or certain minerals, making it either acidic or basic. 

And biologically speaking, our body functions fine if we drink water that has a neutral pH because it is crucial for avoiding problems in human health, such as skin irritation or gastrointestinal discomfort.

So is alkaline water overhyped? Let’s see.

The alkaline story of water

If you zoom into your stomach, it has a native pH of 1.5 to 3.5. It’s a pool of acid strong enough to break down proteins, kill bacteria, and digest your food. So if you drink alkaline water (i.e., pH 9), then what else is happening? It arrives in your stomach and -voilà!- is immediately neutralized.

That’s right. Your blood or organs will not become more alkaline because you drank alkaline water. Your body just counters it back in like it always does.

There is no strong, consistent evidence that drinking alkaline water will have a dramatic effect on health for most people. Studies suggest it may offer mild benefits for acid reflux or certain types of skin and kidney problems, but nothing dramatic.

The catch is in what actually makes water alkaline, and not in the pH.

Key minerals in Alkaline water that are beneficial

As water passes through rocks (springs, Himalayan water), it absorbs calcium, magnesium, potassium, and bicarbonates, and these minerals naturally increase the pH level. 

That’s why natural springs create alkaline water. It’s more of a process than a product.

These minerals (electrolytes) are good for you, and proponents say they’re better absorbed when dissolved in water. But you can also obtain these essential minerals from a balanced diet or mineral supplements.

So, let’s say if you employ an alkaline booster stick or ceramic ball filter, you’re basically doing what nature does, allowing minerals to leach back into the water and shift its pH upward.

That’s safe. That’s fine. That’s chemistry, not trickery. 

1. Potassium: 

Acts to balance fluid in the cells, important for hydrating skin and maintaining healthy cellular function and regeneration of new skin cells, which are not only key to a vibrant glow, but also support the integrity of our skin barrier.

2. Calcium: 

Has an essential function in the proliferation and differentiation of keratinocytes, as well as the cutaneous barrier, moisture retention, and modulation of inflammation. Good calcium levels = firm and elastic skin, and quick revival of the skin's protective barrier.

3. Magnesium: 

It also helps to maintain skin elasticity and prevent faster aging of the skin itself by controlling both inflammation and collagen resorption; a deficiency will lead to premature aging of the skin.

Detoxification support

These minerals also serve as electrolytes and assist in the maintenance of body fluid balance, which supports kidney function and waste removal from the body.

Proper hydration and electrolyte balance support cellular function and can help to eliminate toxins through the urine and sweat, which in turn also support detox.

Benefits of alkaline water 

Do you know what will come up when you go to Google and search for “benefits of alkaline water”? There will be some texts that read benefits in 

• soothing acid reflux, 

• enhancing hydration, 

• reducing high blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol, 

which are some really bold statements. Hydration, without a doubt, is extremely important for a healthy body and good quality of life, but there is no strong evidence or meta-studies, or clinical trials that reflect these statements in favor of alkaline water. However, if you keep your body hydrated and enhance it with minerals, whether through an adequate diet or through any source that can make your water alkaline, then it ultimately helps with the things mentioned above.

The natural way your body remains alkaline

Your body already has an entire system built to maintain a stable pH.

• Lungs help eliminate excess carbon dioxide (acidic).

• Kidneys excrete hydrogen ions and reabsorb bicarbonate.

• Cells constantly buffer acid-base shifts.

So even if you eat acidic foods or drink cola sometimes (not every day), your pH won’t swing wildly. Your body adjusts automatically. You don’t have to “alkalize” it; you need to support it with good nutrition, better and adequate hydration, exercise, and rest.

That’s where alkaline water comes in, as a complement to a healthy lifestyle, not the lone savior.

Can we make alkaline water naturally at home?

Yes. No gadgets required.

Just a couple of easy ways to increase your water’s alkalinity safely:

• Add a pinch of baking soda to 1 liter of water (pH is slightly raised by this action).

• Use fresh lemon. Yes, lemons are acidic, but they alkalize after digestion.

• Along with a few lemon slices, add cucumber slices, a bunch of mint leaves, or even some amla pieces to the water and let it sit for at least a few hours for a more flavorful drink.

• Allow your water to pass through mineral-rich ceramic or stone filters.

These methods mimic nature. They’re not overwhelming, and they don’t run ₹300 a bottle.

So even though a Korean ceramic stick or mineral ball is a tidy, practical device, the principle it’s based on is old-school: Minerals alkalize water and help in better hydration. Period.

Some ancient Indian practices to make water alkaline naturally and to have maximum benefits are:

Water stored in a copper utensil

The process of storing water inside a copper bottle ionizes it by making it more alkaline. Moreover, the copper ions have an oligodynamic effect, which successfully kills harmful bacteria, microbes, and even fungi in the water, thus serving as a natural purifier. There is also a fact of traditional use, in Ayurveda, water held in copper vessels and known as Tamra Jal is believed to balance the body’s three doshas. However, one should remember that too much copper is toxic. Normally, a quality copper bottle does not leak excessive amounts of copper that may poison the body. But it is still reasonable not to drink such water in extra amounts. Acidic liquids and milk can not be stored in copper because they cause extremely high levels of copper leaching.

Water from an earthen clay pot

It is significant for its natural cooling properties, numerous health benefits, and its deep cultural and environmental value. The clay is alkaline in nature as it contains various natural minerals, including but not limited to calcium, magnesium, and Iron, which are then infused into the water through the pot. This provides a healthier, mineral-rich drinking option compared to many modern water purifiers (like RO systems), which can strip away essential minerals.

The unknown water problem

We consume water daily, and rarely question what’s in it. Tap water, RO water, and bottled water have the same taste but are chemically not.

RO systems, for example, eliminate virtually everything, including minerals. That’s why RO water tends to be slightly acidic (approximately pH 6.5). That’s also why adding minerals back, either naturally or by way of a booster stick, rebalances and enriches the flavor.

So in this context, alkaline water simply restores what aggressive purification strips away.

Finally, the modern home with unpredictable water has the best choice available as a combination. RO guarantees safety by removing harmful contaminants. An Alkaline/Remineralization stage restores the quality (minerals and pH balance). A combination of the two ensures we are solving the “Unknown Water Problem” in the first place, which is without a doubt purity, but simultaneously minerals as well, in these modern times.

Is alkaline water “better” than normal water?

Depends on what you mean by “better.”

• For hydration? All water hydrates.

• For taste? Some find alkaline water smoother.

• For health? No compelling evidence that it’s better but not harmful, either.

If your normal water is pure, safe, and mineral-balanced, you’re good.

If it’s devoid of minerals (which many RO systems are), you would add a source of minerals or an alkaline booster.

The real upgrade isn’t pH, it’s uniformity. Consume plenty of clean drinking water throughout the day. That’s what matters most.

The lifestyle truth everyone ignores

Today’s diet is filled with acid-forming fare, sugar, processed meat, refined grains/carbs, artificial sweeteners, caffeine, and alcohol. Your body deals with it, but your body is under stress. That’s why people feel better on alkaline diets, or when they start eating more vegetables and drinking water, not because of the water, but simply that they’re paying attention to balance. They consume more fruits and veggies. They hydrate better. They reduce junk.

So maybe alkaline water isn’t the hero, it’s the reminder.

The reminder to live in balance, not extremes.

Drink smart, not marketed

If alkaline water makes you feel good, then drink it. If you’re content with plain filtered water and you are getting your mineral needs fulfilled, then stay with it. The fact of the matter is, your body needs support.

Alkaline water is not a detox miracle but rather a tool for mindful hydration.

And if a stick, a filter helps you reach for more water and less soda, that’s already a win.

So, if someone says some type of water or alkaline water will dramatically change your life, it might not. But alkaline water benefits could help you live a little better if you understand the science, not the slogan.

Frequently Asked Questions about Alkaline Water

1. What exactly is alkaline water?

Alkaline water is water that has been raised to a higher pH. The increased water pH results from minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, that cause the water to be less acidic.

2. What makes alkaline water different from regular water?

Pure water has a pH of 7. It has a slightly higher pH reading than regular water due to the minerals inside. It might go down smoother, but in terms of hydrating your body, they both work the same.

3. Does alkaline water affect your body’s pH?

No. Your body balances its pH through your lungs and kidneys. Drinking alkaline water will not “alkalize” your blood; your body does that internally, keeping it tightly maintained at a slightly alkaline pH of 7.35 to 7.45.

4. Can alkaline water be harmful?

Not normally, if one drinks in moderation (1 liter/day, a part of 2-3 liters water intake). It’s possible that very high-pH water (over 10) or chemically treated water could cause problems, but mild alkalinity (8 to 9.5) is generally fine for most people.

5. Is it possible to make alkaline water at home?

Yes. You can try adding a pinch of bicarbonate (baking soda) per liter, drinking lemon-infused water (which is alkaline in the body), or running it through a mineral or ceramic filter, or use an alkaline booster stick that will raise its pH naturally.

6. Is alkaline water good for weight loss or anti-aging?

Alkaline water is fine for weight loss and anti-aging, because the principle here is adequate hydration and toxin removal. Since minerals are better absorbed through water, they help maintain adequate levels in the body, which ultimately benefits good health.