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| - Last Updated on December 28, 2024 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post claims that there are various benefits of alkaline water. We fact checked and found the claim to be Mostly false.
The Claim
A social media post named Vijaymangam uploaded a carousel claiming that alkaline water supports detoxification and enhances energy levels by removing toxins more effectively, thereby improving overall health.
Fact Check
Does alkaline water support detoxification?
No, alkaline water does not detoxify the body in the way people often claim. The idea that alkaline water support detoxification helps the body get rid of toxins is a popular one, but it doesn’t have scientific backing. The body is naturally equipped to detoxify itself through the liver, kidneys, and digestive system. These organs work tirelessly to filter out toxins without the need for any special drink or supplement.
Alkaline water, which typically has a higher pH level than regular water, is often marketed as having various health benefits, including detoxification. However, the body maintains a tightly controlled pH balance in the blood, and drinking alkaline water doesn’t really change this. In fact, the stomach itself is highly acidic to break down food, so any effect from alkaline water is unlikely to make a significant difference in overall detoxification.
Does alkaline water help balance the body’s pH?
No, it doesn’t have a major effect on your body’s pH balance. While alkaline water is more basic (higher pH) than regular tap water, the human body’s pH levels are well-regulated and don’t change dramatically based on what you consume. Your blood pH, for example, is tightly controlled by your lungs and kidneys, and it’s generally maintained at around 7.4, which is slightly alkaline. Drinking alkaline water won’t influence this balance in any meaningful way.
The body works hard to keep your pH stable, and drinking water with a different pH level won’t override this system. Any slight change in pH from alkaline water is usually neutralised by stomach acid before it even has a chance to affect your system. Therefore, the idea that alkaline water can balance the body’s pH is more of a marketing myth than a proven fact.
Are there any proven health benefits of drinking alkaline water?
Not significantly—any benefits are likely to be overstated. The health benefits associated with drinking alkaline water are mostly anecdotal and not supported by strong scientific evidence. Some small studies suggest that alkaline water may improve hydration or reduce acid reflux symptoms. However, these studies are limited in scope and don’t provide enough evidence to make broad claims about the water’s detoxifying properties.
We previously fact-checked the claim that drinking alkaline water can help people with cancer, diabetes and high blood pressure.
Diabetes
Some studies have suggested that alkaline ionized water (AIW) could have positive effects on blood glucose levels in animal models of diabetes. However, these findings are not conclusive, and more robust clinical research on humans is necessary to determine whether AIW is effective or safe for managing diabetes.
High Blood Pressure
The relationship between alkaline water and blood pressure is similarly unclear. Although some people believe that the alkalinity of the water could help reduce blood pressure, there is limited scientific evidence to support this claim.
It’s important to remember that individual responses to alkaline water can vary. Therefore, relying solely on alkaline water for health management may not be a comprehensive or proven solution.
Managing diabetes and high blood pressure usually involves a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and, in some cases, medication.
Dr. Ayush Chandra, a Diabetologist and founder of Nivaran Health in Delhi NCR, explains, “Managing diabetes requires the right medications or insulin therapy under professional guidance. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, regular exercise, adequate water intake, mental well-being, and consistent blood sugar monitoring are all important factors.”
Dr. Shalin Nagori, a Consultant Pathologist and Industrial Physician, adds, “The impact of alkaline water on blood pressure remains unclear, and scientific evidence is limited. Blood pressure management involves many factors, and it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice.”
Cancer
Cancer is a complex disease influenced by genetic factors, lifestyle, and environmental exposures. The idea that altering the body’s pH with alkaline water affects cancer cells is not backed by credible research.
Cancer cells can thrive in both acidic and alkaline environments, and the body regulates its pH through the kidneys, lungs, and buffer systems, making it impossible to significantly change blood pH with diet or water consumption. While the alkaline diet promotes healthy eating, such as consuming more fruits and vegetables, it’s an exaggeration to claim it can prevent cancer.
Dr. Pooja Khullar, a Radiation Oncologist, explains, “There’s no solid science to back up the idea of alkaline water preventing cancer. Cancer is complex, and drinking water with a different pH won’t stop its development. A balanced diet and healthy lifestyle are the best ways to reduce cancer risk.”
Is there any harm in drinking alkaline water?
Generally, no, but excessive consumption could lead to issues. For most people, drinking alkaline water in moderation isn’t harmful. However, if you consume large amounts regularly, it could potentially interfere with your stomach’s natural acidity, possibly leading to digestive issues like bloating or discomfort. Excessively alkaline water may also disrupt the balance of electrolytes in the body, which could have negative health effects.
Moderation is key when it comes to anything you consume. In the case of alkaline water, it’s important to remember that it’s just water, and its pH is unlikely to bring about any significant health changes. Drinking it in place of regular water won’t drastically improve your detoxification process.
Conclusion
The idea that alkaline water can detoxify your body is a misconception. While staying hydrated is crucial for overall health, the pH level of the water you drink doesn’t have a major impact on your body’s natural detox processes. The body already has highly effective systems in place to filter out toxins, and these systems don’t require the help of alkaline water.
So, while it’s fine to enjoy alkaline water if you like the taste, don’t rely on it for detoxification or other health benefits. Stick to the basics: drink plenty of water, eat a balanced diet, and allow your body to do what it does best—take care of itself.
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