How Ionized Alkaline Water Benefits Your Entire Body

According to its proponents, ionized alkaline water benefits the human body in many ways. That is why its consumption is gaining more popularity, especially in Japan and Korea. Gradually, the trend picks up in US, Europe and in many countries all over the world.

While the benefits offered by this type of water look promising, it is viewed with skepticism by some. Others believe that the drink has no real health benefits and that the apparent positive impact on health maybe simply due to placebo effect. Papers from advocates and opponents trade arguments for and against the reality of these benefits.

To better understand the mechanism, or to better evaluate for yourself if using this type of water is indeed beneficial, it is necessary to look at what exactly is an ionized alkaline water.

From basic chemistry, the pH of substances ranges from 0-14. Those that have a pH less than 7 are considered acidic, those that have a pH at exactly 7 are neutral, while those that have a pH higher than 7 are alkaline. Alkaline water, therefore, simply means water that has a pH level that is higher than 7.

The word 'ionized' is inserted at the beginning of the phrase, because alkaline water is attained by the addition of minerals like sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. These minerals 'ionize' water by reducing its electro-negativity, in the process making electrons available to fight toxins.

Simply put, ionized alkaline water is water with a pH higher than 7, that available electrons to fight toxins.

Now that its basic property is described, it is easier to explain how it works to benefit the body:

1) Maintains body's pH balance.

A regular diet that involves red meat, white flour and soda will prove harmful in the long run. It can damage the kidneys. There is also the danger of chronic metabolic acidosis. The consumption of alkaline water will directly neutralize the effects of an acidic diet and bring back the body's pH balance.

2) Better hydration

We often hear, especially in sports, about the need for everyone to stay hydrated. Hydration does not only involve refilling the body with water because in sweating, body salts are also lost. Ionized water therefore, with its higher quantity of sodium and other minerals, is a better choice for replenishing the body with vital fluids.

3) Antioxidant properties

Antioxidants need not only come from fruits and vegetables. Alkaline water may also offer protection from harmful oxidants, like free radicals, by virtue of the electrons that have become more available to neutralize the free radicals.

4) Helps fight osteoporosis

In combination with other sources of calcium, the consumption of ionized water can reduce the risk of osteoporosis. It increases bone strength and density through its concentration of calcium and alkalinity that tends to enhance absorption.

5) Protection from other diseases

Proponents of ionized water further claim it maybe used to alleviate common diseases like heartburn, arthritis, headaches, migraines, even certain cases of back pain. Since these conditions are thought to be directly influenced by the amount of hydration and absorption of minerals, regular consumption of the healthy drink will have a positive impact.

 

While the debate on ionized alkaline water benefits goes on, the ordinary consumer is left to see the truth for himself, which means that he should give it a try. More on benefits of alkaline water over at www.alkalinebenefits.org.