For most people, alkaline water is not better than plain water.
Bottled water sold as alkaline water, which is regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, might have nutrients added to it to achieve an alkaline pH.
Alkaline water has a higher pH level than that of plain tap water. So proponents say that it can neutralize acid in your bloodstream. Some say that alkaline water can help prevent disease, such as cancer and heart disease. However, more research is needed to verify these claims.
Some studies also suggest that alkaline water might help slow bone loss. But further studies are needed to find out if it influences overall bone mineral density and if the benefit continues over the long term.
Show References
- FDA regulates the safety of bottled water beverages including flavored water and nutrient-added water beverages. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/food/foodborneillnesscontaminants/buystoreservesafefood/ucm046894.htm. Accessed March 21, 2022.
- Fenton TR, et al. Systematic review of the association between dietary acid load, alkaline water and cancer. BMJ Open. 2016; doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2015-010438.
- Mousa HAL. Health effects of alkaline diet and water, reduction of digestive-tract bacterial load, and earthing. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine. 2016;22:24.
Original article: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/alkaline-water/faq-20058029