Is alkaline water really better for you? There’s no solid proof that it is
- The jury is still out on whether alkaline water boosts energy, strengthens bones, fights cancer, or is better than other bottled waters – and even tap water
- Consuming water that’s filtered and contains minerals, and getting enough of it, is more important
The idea that alkaline water promotes health has been around for decades. But with new marketing, the same drink is being promoted as a performance-enhancing sports drink that’s at least double the price of bottled water.
Global sales of alkaline water are expected to reach US$1 billion this year, according to food and drink consultancy Zenith Global.
However, there’s no solid evidence that these drinks boost energy, strengthen bones or fight cancer, or that alkaline water is any better than other types of bottled water – or even tap water.
Here’s what you need to know about this speciality water.
What exactly is alkaline water?
To break it down, the terms acid and alkaline refer to the pH value of a water-based solution. The pH scale runs from 0 to 14, with 0 being completely acidic, 14 being totally alkaline and seven being neutral. Lemon juice has a pH value of 2, while baking soda has a pH value of nine. Water, including tap water, has a pH value of seven, making it neutral.