A Guide to Alkaline Water: Benefits, DIY Methods, and the Best Way to Get It

In recent years, alkaline water has surged in popularity, with claims ranging from improved hydration to enhanced detoxification. But what exactly is alkaline water, why are so many people turning to it, and if you choose alkaline water, how can you ensure you’re getting the best quality alkaline water for your home and family? At EcoWater of Central Florida we know that quality water matters greatly to our local community. This guide will delve into all these questions, including how to make alkaline water at home, where to buy it, and why investing in a reverse osmosis system might be the best decision you can make.

Understanding Alkaline Water: What It Is and How It Works

Alkaline water is defined by its pH level, which is a measure of how acidic or alkaline a substance is on a scale of 0 to 14. While regular tap water has a neutral pH of around 7, alkaline water typically has a pH of 8 or 9. This higher pH level can be achieved naturally, through the presence of alkaline minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, or artificially by adding these minerals to the water.

Why does this matter? Proponents of alkaline water argue that because it is less acidic, it can help neutralize acid in the body, leading to a variety of health benefits. Though there are a few interesting studies, there isn’t enough scientific evidence yet to prove the claims.

Why Might Alkaline Water Be Good for You?

The potential benefits of alkaline water have been widely debated, but many enthusiasts swear by it for several reasons:

Neutralizing Body Acidity

One of the primary reasons people drink alkaline water is its potential to neutralize acid in the bloodstream. Our modern diets, often high in processed foods, caffeine, and sugars, can contribute to a higher acidity level in the body. Drinking alkaline water might help balance this out, potentially reducing issues such as acid reflux, though there isn’t any significant research.

Enhanced Hydration

Alkaline water is believed to have smaller molecule clusters compared to regular water, which can be more easily absorbed by the cells. This could lead to better hydration, especially during physical activity or in hot climates.

Detoxification

Some believe that alkaline water helps to flush out toxins more effectively than regular water, thanks to its higher pH level. By supporting the body’s natural detox processes, it might contribute to overall health and well-being.

Antioxidant Properties

Alkaline water is often said to have antioxidant properties, which means it could help neutralize free radicals, the unstable molecules that can cause damage to cells and contribute to aging and various diseases.

Bone Health

Some studies suggest that alkaline water might help maintain bone health by reducing bone resorption, the process by which bones break down to release minerals into the blood. Two small studies one using a small group of nutritionists, and one using a group of 100 women with osteoporosis showed that this might be true. More research is necessary to understand the long-term benefits of alkaline water for slowing bone loss.

While the scientific community continues to study these potential benefits, many people who drink alkaline water regularly report feeling more energized, less bloated, and overall healthier.

How to Make Alkaline Water at Home

If you’re curious about trying alkaline water but aren’t ready to commit to buying it or installing a system, you could try making it at home. There are several methods to do this, each with its own pros and cons.

Baking Soda Method

Baking soda is a simple and inexpensive way to alkalize your water. To use this method, add about 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda to an 8-ounce glass of water. Stir well until the baking soda is completely dissolved.

Pros of the Baking Soda Method

• Cost-Effective: Baking soda is cheap and readily available in most households.
• Ease of Use: It requires only one ingredient and minimal effort.

Cons of the Baking Soda Method

• Taste: Baking soda can significantly alter the taste of the water, making it salty and less appealing.
• Inconsistent pH Levels: The pH level may vary depending on the amount of baking soda and the existing pH of the water used.

Lemon Juice Method

This might seem counterintuitive since lemons are acidic, but once metabolized, lemon juice has an alkalizing effect on the body. To make alkaline water, squeeze a lemon into a glass of water and let it sit for 8 to 12 hours. The water will absorb the alkalizing minerals from the lemon.

Pros of the Lemon Juice Method

• Natural Ingredients: Using lemon is a natural way to alkalize your water.
• Pleasant Taste: The lemon adds a refreshing taste to the water.

Cons of the Lemon Juice Method

• Preparation Time: This method requires you to prepare the water ahead of time, making it less convenient for immediate consumption.
• Variable Results: The pH level can be inconsistent, and it’s hard to measure exactly how alkaline the water becomes.

Alkaline Water Drops

These are liquid mineral drops designed to increase the pH of your water. You can find these drops at health food stores or online. To use them, follow the instructions on the bottle, typically adding a few drops to a glass of water.

Pros of Alkaline Water Drops

• Ease of Use: These drops are convenient and quick to use.
• Portable: You can take the drops with you, making it easy to alkalize your water on the go.

Cons of Alkaline Water Drops

• Cost: While not as expensive as buying bottled alkaline water, the cost of drops can add up over time.

Artificial Additives: Some brands may contain artificial ingredients, which might be undesirable for those seeking a more natural option.

The Convenience and Cost of Buying Alkaline Water

For those who prefer not to make their own, alkaline water is readily available for purchase. You can find bottled alkaline water at most grocery stores, health food stores, gas stations, and online retailers. Popular brands include Essentia, Smartwater, and Aquafina offer alkaline water options, often with varying pH levels and added minerals. However, you might be surprised at what’s in some bottled water.

Pros of Buying Alkaline Water

Convenience: Bottled alkaline water is ready to drink, requiring no preparation or additional ingredients.

Consistent Quality: Commercially produced alkaline water usually maintains a consistent pH level, ensuring you get the same product every time.

Portability: Bottled water is easy to carry with you, making it a convenient option for those who are always on the go.

Cons of Buying Alkaline Water

Cost: Regularly purchasing bottled alkaline water can become expensive over time, especially if you drink it daily.

Environmental Impact: The production and disposal of plastic bottles contribute significantly to environmental pollution. While some brands offer eco-friendly packaging, the majority still rely on single-use plastics.

Limited Control: You have no control over the pH level or mineral content of the water, and some brands may add artificial ingredients or preservatives.

Quality Control: The quality of bottled water can vary widely, with some brands sourcing their “alkaline” water from the same municipal supplies as normal tap water.

Why Choose a Reverse Osmosis System?

While DIY methods and purchasing bottled alkaline water are viable options for some, they come with limitations that can be frustrating or ineffective in the long run. If you’re serious about integrating alkaline water into your daily routine, investing in a reverse osmosis (RO) system with a remineralization filter is the most effective solution.

A reverse osmosis system works by forcing water through a semi-permeable membrane, which reduces impurities, contaminants, and minerals. The result is cleaner, safer water. To make the water alkaline, a remineralization filter is typically added after the RO process, which reintroduces essential minerals like calcium and magnesium, which increase the pH level to make the water alkaline.

Advantages of Using a Reverse Osmosis System

Consistent Quality: Unlike homemade methods, a reverse osmosis system provides water with a consistent pH level and mineral content. This ensures that every glass of water you drink is of the highest quality possible.

Comprehensive Filtration: RO systems drastically reduce a wide range of contaminants, including chlorine, fluoride, heavy metals, and bacteria. This means you’re not just getting alkaline water, but also cleaner, safer water.

Cost-Effective Over Time: While the initial investment in a reverse osmosis system may seem high, it is a cost-effective solution in the long run. You’ll save money compared to the ongoing costs of bottled alkaline water or purchasing alkaline drops.

Environmental Benefits: By using an RO system, you significantly reduce your reliance on bottled water, which helps decrease plastic waste, your overall carbon footprint, and your impact on the planet.

Convenience: Having an RO system installed in your home means you have instant access to high-quality alkaline water at any time. There’s no need to mix ingredients or run to the store for bottled water.

Disadvantages of Using a Reverse Osmosis System

Initial Cost: The upfront cost of purchasing and installing a reverse osmosis system can be significant, depending on your specific water quality, the level of filtration needed, and the type of system you choose.

Maintenance: While maintenance is minimal, reverse osmosis systems do require regular, usually yearly, filter changes and yearly check-ups to ensure they continue to operate efficiently.

Water Waste: RO systems typically produce some wastewater as a byproduct of the filtration process. However, many modern systems are designed to minimize this waste.

When it comes to installing a reverse osmosis system, consulting a water treatment professional is crucial for ensuring the system is tailored to your specific water quality needs. A professional can accurately assess the contaminants present in your water, recommend the appropriate system, and ensure proper installation to avoid potential issues such as leaks, inadequate filtration, or system inefficiency.

Moreover, professionals provide valuable guidance on maintenance schedules and can address any concerns that arise, giving you peace of mind that your water is not only alkaline but safe. Skipping this step and attempting a DIY installation might lead to suboptimal results, compromising the quality of your drinking water and potentially resulting in costly repairs.

Choosing the Best Option for Your Alkaline Water Needs

Incorporating alkaline water into your lifestyle can offer numerous potential health benefits, from improved hydration to enhanced detoxification. While making alkaline water at home or buying it in bottles are options that might work for the short term, they come with challenges such as inconsistent pH levels, higher long-term costs, and environmental concerns.

For those who are serious about the quality of their drinking water, investing in a reverse osmosis system with a remineralization filter is the best choice. It provides consistent, high-quality alkaline water while also offering the added benefits of comprehensive filtration and cost savings over time.

At EcoWater of Central Florida, we’ve been serving the local Central Gulf Coast Florida area for over 37 years and we specialize in residential water treatment solutions that prioritize your health, convenience, and the environment.

Our reverse osmosis systems are designed to deliver the cleanest, safest water possible for your family. When you’re ready to talk about the water in your home give us a call at (813) 491-9518 or contact us here.