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Water is a substance that humans need to consume on a daily basis. Apart from directly ingesting the water, it can also be utilised in cooking and other purposes. In recent years, some people have advocated for ingesting alkaline water or using alkaline water for cooking, believing it to be better for human health. Although the majority of people may probably grasp the concept of "acidity and alkalinity," they might not be truly understanding that the definition of ordinary water is only representing the neutral solution which is neither alkaline nor acidic.
Another fact which the majority may not be familiar with is that more benefits can be brought by the use of alkaline water in our daily lives, especially towards our health while compared to the use of ordinary water.
This article has compiled the information about alkaline water, including the difference between alkaline water and ordinary water, its health benefits, and also the areas where alkaline water can be used etc., so that everyone can have a better understanding about alkaline water and start using it in daily life.
What is Alkaline Water?
Alkaline water usually refers to water with a higher pH value, while ordinary water can be regarded as a neutral substance which is neither acidic nor alkaline. Generally, pH value is used as an indicator to measure the acidity and alkalinity of water, while the pH value of ordinary water is 7. Water with a pH value lower than 7 will be more acidic; while water with a relatively higher alkaline level is higher in pH value.
Method to make alkaline water
Apart from directly purchase alkaline water, you can also use the following method to make alkaline water:
Add alkaline substances into ordinary water
By adding some highly alkaline substance like soda powder into ordinary water which is neutral in acidity and alkalinity while having a pH value of 7, the pH value of ordinary water will increase and it will be adjusted to alkaline water.
Benefits and functions of ingesting alkaline water
Absorbing alkaline water can provide the following benefits, which is healthier than drinking neutral ordinary water:
Balance the pH value of the body
Ordinary foods in daily life, such as coffee, meat, and carbonated beverages are highly acidic. Intaking these foods on a daily basis may lower the pH value in the body. Ingesting alkaline water enables balancing the pH value in the body and reduces discomfort caused by having a relatively low pH value.
Anti-oxidation
Alkaline water contains a large amount of active hydrogen, ingesting alkaline water can enhance the antioxidant capacity of the body. After the body ingests alkaline water, it can resist the damage caused by free radicals in the body, so that the ageing process of the body will be slowing down.
Improve digestive function of the body
Intaking alkaline water helps the digestive system to absorb nutrients from food more effectively, which can promote gastrointestinal health and alleviate digestive system problems such as indigestion and constipation.
Maintain skin health
After ingesting alkaline water, it helps balance the pH value of the skin and reduces the problems caused by excessive skin acidity such as dry skin, acne, allergy. Drinking alkaline water will provide a higher moisturising ability than the neutral ordinary water, which makes the skin regain its elasticity and provide a healthier and younger appearance.
Common uses of alkaline water
There are many benefits in ingesting alkaline water, and here are some common ways for you to get enough alkaline water:
Daily drinking
Directly drinking is one of the most convenient ways to ingest alkaline water. Drinking 8 cups (approximately 2 litres) of alkaline water every day ensures that the human body can enjoy most of the functions of alkaline water.
Culinary use
Common ingredients like pork, beef and chicken are acidic foods. Using alkaline water to cook food can neutralise the pH value of the ingredients, allowing you to ingest the food with a pH value closer to the neutral level, so that to achieve the effect of balancing pH value in the body.
Replenish electrolytes after exercise
After exercise, electrolytes may be lost due to excessive sweating. If the human body loses too many electrolytes, problems such as dehydration and muscle cramps may occur. Alkaline water contains substances like minerals which can help replenishing electrolytes. Therefore, it is recommended to drink alkaline water after exercise or after sweating too much in hot summer to replenish the lost electrolytes.
How to drink alkaline water safely?
There are many benefits brought by drinking alkaline water, but similar to ordinary water, we cannot over-ingest it. The recommended drinking amount of alkaline water, and the possible side effects of drinking too much alkaline water are listed below, as to ensure everyone can safely drink the alkaline water.
Recommended drinking amount of alkaline water
Alkaline water is the same as neutral ordinary water. It is recommended to drink about 8 glasses (about 2 litres) of water every day in order to maintain a good water balance and balance the pH value in the body. However, it should be noted that people with long-term illnesses such as heart disease, kidney disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease should avoid drinking an excessive amount of water, as to prevent affecting their condition.
Possible side effects of drinking alkaline water
In fact, the human body has the function of automatically adjusting the internal pH value. Drinking too much alkaline water may cause excessive alkalinity in the body, which can easily damage the kidneys and even cause other diseases. It is recommended to drink about 8 cups of alkaline water every day to meet the daily needs of the human body.