Modern health trends focus on enhancing every aspect of life, including cuisine and skincare, in order to achieve better outcomes. Even water is getting a fancy makeover with the name 'alkaline water.' However, who stands to gain the most from alkaline water, and is it a game-changer? To learn more about this proactive wellness trend that has elevated hydration to the next level, I spoke with authorities.

What is alkaline water?

To comprehend alkaline water, one must first comprehend the pH scale, which measures the acidity or alkalinity of a substance, according to Suvarna Sawant, chief dietician and HoD, clinical nutrition and dietetics, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai.

"Measured between 0-14, each number indicates a ten-fold change, with substances below 7 considered to be highly acidic and those above 7 considered to be basic or alkaline," he stated. Natural water that has gone through a home ionizer or over rocks rich in minerals is known as alkaline water. The water absorbs alkaline helpers such calcium, magnesium, potassium, and bicarbonate in the process. The soluble minerals can increase the pH of the water to between 8 and 9, which lowers the acidity and makes the water "healthier."

What caused the alkaline water boom?

The shift in favor of alkaline water is thus caused by what? Aakash Vaghela, the founder and managing director of Evocus, that the movement gained traction around 2020, a pivotal year that transformed the way Indians viewed wellness. The pandemic made people more aware of the decisions they make for their health. As part of this wave, alkaline water with electrolytes and minerals infused in it appeared.

"What started as a niche product in select premium retail outlets and wellness stores has now become widely available across modern trade, e-commerce platforms, and even quick-commerce apps," Aakash said. Originally, it was only embraced by fitness buffs and health-conscious people, but over time, we've seen a notable uptake among Gen Z and urban millennial consumers who are label-conscious, highly aware, and place a high value on long-term health advantages.

The transition was evident by 2024, with the premium bottled water market reaching $1.2 billion and expanding at a 7.5% CAGR, led by functional waters such as alkaline and mineral-rich varieties, he continued. The request for transparency and education is now a mature manifestation of this trend. Consumers are becoming more selective, but they also want to learn the science behind their choices, including pH and antioxidant characteristics. In India, the development of alternative waters is now centered on intelligent, deliberate living, not just hydration.

However, does everyone need alkaline water?

However, before boarding the wellness bandwagon, it's important to consider whether everyone actually needs this mineral-fortified water. According to dietitian Suvarna Sawant, the body is already quite adept at maintaining its pH balance on its own. But no matter what you eat, our lungs and kidneys are in charge of maintaining the blood's pH level around 7.4, he added. Therefore, for the majority of healthy individuals, simple, safe water hydrates just as well as any "enhanced" variety.

Which people might benefit the most from drinking alkaline water?

Alkaline water, however, is not entirely without merit; it may be helpful for some groups, particularly those who have problems with acidity.

"Available research shows that water at pH 8.8 can instantly turn off pepsin, the rogue stomach enzyme that causes acid reflux symptoms," Survana said. Therefore, drinking alkaline water may help some people who suffer from persistent heartburn. Additionally, some studies suggest that people who consistently choose water with a high pH and plenty of electrolytes experience a somewhat smoother blood flow following exercise and slight improvements in glucose management. It is important to note that these are preliminary results and that further investigation is being conducted.

What risks might there be?

However, alkaline water, like the majority of wellness fads, has its own list of cautions. Excessive consumption may have unforeseen repercussions, while others may find it helpful.

"On the contrary, drinking water with a very high pH (above 10) or relying on it solely can disrupt digestion, impair mineral absorption, and, in rare cases, induce nausea, tingling, or muscle spasms," the dietitian cautioned. As a result, clean, delicious water, which will keep you hydrated throughout the day, is the best choice for you unless you're an endurance athlete who needs rapid rehydration or if you have persistent acid reflux.

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