What Is Alkaline Water? Know Its Benefit And Side Effects

Alkaline water can be used for drinking purpose for medical reasons, and it is beneficial of reducing causes of ulcers, cancer etc.

All about alkaline water (Representational Image)

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Alkaline water has become a recent health trend and a lot is being said about the same. Alkaline water can be used for drinking purpose for medical reasons and it is beneficial of reducing causes of ulcers, cancer etc. According to Dr. Aishwarya Vichare, who is a Dietician at Bhatia Hospital, Mumbai, "AIW has high hydrogen content, low oxygen content, and is characterized by high pH and low oxidation-reduction potential (ORP). It typically has a pH of 8 or 9."

Talking about how it is produced, she said, "Alkaline ionized water is produced through the process of electrolysis of water and its pH is higher than normal drinking water. Alkaline ionized water possesses radical scavenging properties and acts as anti-oxidant."

Health Benefits Of Alkaline Water:

The health benefits associated with the consumption of Alkaline iodize water (AIW) are based on its capability to neutralize and scavenge radicals present in the cells. AIW can prevent DNA, proteins, and other molecules against oxidative damage. Thus, it may play an important role in the amelioration of different disorders like cancer, diabetes, and renal impairment. 

Preety Tyagi who is a Lead Health Coach, Nutritionist and Founder of My22BMI shared the reasons why it’s being considered as a healthier choice for people:

• Alkaline water has a higher pH level, because of which it is a lot less acidic in nature. Alkaline water is considered to be healthier also because it contains many essential minerals that make it more alkaline in nature. 
• The higher pH levels and the presence of essential minerals in the alkaline water, helps in lowering down inflammation in the body and helps in better digestion.
• It helps in eliminating the gastrointestinal discomfort in the body and works as a better colon cleanser.
• It also helps in reduction of glucose levels in blood, lowering down the cholesterol and triglycerides and improves the heart and overall health.
• In other words, it also helps in reducing the body weight and makes you feel fitter and lighter.
• The usage of alkaline water over normal water, reduces the risk of formation of bladder stones in the body.
• Also, due to its properties, it helps in reducing the acidity in the body and eliminates the possibility of chances of reflex disease, IBS etc etc. It helps in keeping your body detoxified and feeling healthier. 
• It has anti aging properties due to the presence of free radicals and helps in keeping your skin and hair glowing and shining, while keeping you feeling great from within.

Side Effects Of Alkaline Water On health:

Richa Shukla, who is a Clinical Nutritionist and HOD of the Deptt. Of F&B from Jehangir Hospital, Pune listed down the side effects of alkaline water.

• Proponents of alkaline water claim that its higher pH level makes it more hydrating and easier on the body than regular water.
• However, potential side effects of alkaline water include the possibility of causing the body to become overly alkaline.
• When the pH level of the body's fluids rises beyond the normal range of 7.35 to 7.45, it can lead to alkalosis, a condition occurring when the body's fluids become excessively alkaline.
• This condition can result in symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, confusion, muscle twitching, and irregular heartbeat.
• Some studies have even linked long-term, high consumption of alkaline water to an increased risk of kidney stones and other urinary tract issues.
• Furthermore, excessive consumption of alkaline water with a high pH can have corrosive effect on the tooth enamel and can gradually damage the teeth over time, stripping away tooth enamel and making teeth more susceptible to cavities and tooth decay.
• Additionally, long-term consumption of high pH alkaline water may reduce the amount of oxygen in the body, potentially leading to shortness of breath and fatigue.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]