We recently wrote about what makes the best and worst water. There’s an enormous variety of water products to choose from nowadays; we don’t blame you if you’re a little confused about which is the healthiest and most hydrating option for you. Alkaline water is just one of the water types available. Just like the other products, alkaline water comes with its own list of pros and cons. Here we share the ultimate guide to alkaline water, answering those all-important questions so you can discover the right water type for you.

What exactly is alkaline water?

As the name suggests, alkaline water has a different pH level when compared with standard drinking water, a quality that is thought to unlock a bevy of benefits for drinkers. Regular drinking water has a pH of 7, which makes it neutral, but the pH of alkaline water is slightly more at 8 or 9. Unlike normal drinking water, alkaline water contains alkaline minerals and negative oxidation reduction potential or ORP, the latter of which has an antioxidising effect on the body.

The pros and cons of drinking alkaline water

There are a wide range of benefits associated with the drinking of alkaline water. Thanks to its concentration of antioxidants, alkaline water is thought to slow down aging thanks to healthier, more beautiful looking skin. It’s thought to cleanse the colon for better digestion and provide the immune system with the support it needs to fend off all types of illnesses, including cancer. It is also claimed to aid weight loss even more than standard drinking water.

Too much alkaline has however been found to result in several negative side effects, including nausea, sickness, nerve problems (such as tremors, twitching and tingling sensations), confusion, and poor lifelong bone health.

Does drinking alkaline water really work?

The consumption of alkaline water has proven to be rather controversial. Some studies have supported claims that alkaline water is beneficial to health, particularly in deactivating an enzyme that causes acid reflux. The results of other studies have been less favourable. Much research has branded the on-trend, celebrity-endorsed (alkaline water is loved by the likes of Beyoncé and American football star Tom Brady) water product as little more than a craze, supporting the consumption of standard drinking water for its equally hydrating qualities.

Alkaline water isn’t the only fad that’s grabbing people’s attention these days, as Lucie Greene, the worldwide director of a trends and consumer behaviour group at advertising agency J Walter Thompson, explains:

“We’re seeing multiple trends and selling points within water at the moment… From ‘raw’ water (literally water from the ground) which was popularized by Silicon Valley Burning Man advocates, to water with electrolytes. There are now halal mineral waters. And waters that have been doctored to have special properties and benefits…”

How does alkaline water compare with filtered?

Drinkers of alkaline water may swear by its benefits but the lack of scientific evidence means drinking this popular water type has its risks. Filtered water on the other hand has a number of proven benefits for your health, well-being and back pocket. Yes, water filters can help you save money with a litre of filtered water able to be made in the comfort of your own home for as little as 3p!