In reality, the situation is much more complex. Modern research shows that drinking water can contribute minerals such as calcium and magnesium to the diet, depending on its mineral composition [1]. However, its potential benefits have clearly defined limits that are important to consider.
Let’s explore what alkaline water is, how its pH is determined, which properties are supported by scientific evidence, and which remain widespread misconceptions.
Table of Contents:
- What Is Alkaline Water?
- Common Myths About Alkaline Water
- What Science Says: Evidence-Based Effects
- Who May Benefit from Alkaline Water?
- Contraindications
- How to Obtain Alkaline Water
- FAQ
What Is Alkaline Water?
Water is considered alkaline when its pH level is above neutral. However, a high pH alone does not make water beneficial. Its mineral composition is also important, including the presence of naturally occurring bicarbonates, calcium, magnesium, and other electrolytes that contribute to maintaining the body's normal fluid and electrolyte balance [1,2].
For this reason, specialists evaluate water not only by its pH level but also by its overall mineral content, trace element composition, and origin.
What Does the pH of Water Mean?
The pH value reflects the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution and indicates its acidity or alkalinity.
The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14:
- Below 7 — acidic;
- pH 7 — neutral;
- Above 7 — alkaline.
Drinking water has a pH between 6.5 and 8.5. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) does not establish a health-based guideline value for pH in drinking water [3].
It is important to understand that pH characterizes the water itself, not the human body. The body's internal environment is regulated by complex physiological mechanisms that maintain a stable acid-base balance regardless of most foods and beverages consumed [4].
Therefore, the effects of alkaline water are not related to “alkalizing the body” but rather to its mineral composition and hydration properties.
What Is Considered Alkaline Water?
Although a pH above 7 is technically alkaline, drinking water with a pH of approximately 7.5 or higher is commonly described as alkaline water.
It can come from different sources:
- Natural bicarbonate mineral water;
- Water produced using specialized ionizers;
- Water supplemented with mineral complexes;
- Certain types of table mineral water.
However, two types of water with the same pH can differ significantly in composition. For example, one may contain sufficient amounts of calcium and magnesium, while the other may be virtually indistinguishable from ordinary purified water.
That is why it is important to consider not only the pH value but also the mineral content when choosing water.
One way to increase the mineral content of drinking water is to use mineral complexes. For example, Coral Mine contains naturally sourced coral-derived minerals that gradually enrich water with calcium, magnesium, and other elements, changing its mineral composition and raising its pH to mildly alkaline levels.
However, it is important to understand that such products are not medicines. They are used as part of a daily hydration routine rather than as a means of treating diseases.
Alkaline water is primarily water with specific physical and chemical characteristics. These characteristics have given rise to numerous popular claims, some of which are supported by research, while others have long been disproven by modern science.
In the next section, we will examine the most common myths about alkaline water and explore what is actually known today.
Common Myths About Alkaline Water
The popularity of alkaline water has led to numerous claims that sound convincing but are not always supported by scientific evidence. Let’s examine the most common myths and see what modern research says about them.
Myth 1: Alkaline Water Changes Blood pH
This is one of the most widespread misconceptions.
In the human body, blood pH is maintained within a very narrow range of 7.35–7.45. Even a slight deviation can be life-threatening, which is why the body constantly regulates its acid-base balance through the lungs, kidneys, and blood buffer systems.
In a healthy person, ordinary food and beverages have virtually no ability to change blood pH. If a glass of water could significantly affect this value, it would indicate a serious failure of the body's self-regulation mechanisms.
For this reason, the claim that alkaline water “alkalizes the body” is physiologically inaccurate.
Water with a particular mineral composition can, however, affect the acidity of stomach contents or urine. These are entirely different processes and are not associated with changes in blood acidity.
Conclusion: Alkaline water does not significantly change blood pH in a healthy person [4].
Myth 2: Alkaline Water Cures Cancer
This claim is not supported by scientific evidence.
Sometimes, the argument is made that “cancer cells live in an acidic environment,” and therefore alkaline water can supposedly stop tumor growth. However, modern oncology views this issue differently.
Indeed, a more acidic microenvironment can develop around certain tumors. However, this is a consequence of the metabolic characteristics of tumor cells, not the cause of the disease.
To date, there are no high-quality clinical studies confirming that drinking alkaline water reduces the risk of developing cancer or helps treat it.
Cancer Research UK advises that alternative diets intended to change the body's acidity are not proven treatments for cancer [5].
Using alkaline water instead of proven treatments can be dangerous because it may lead to delays in treatment and avoidance of necessary medical care.
Conclusion: Alkaline water is not a method of preventing or treating cancer.
Myth 3: The Higher the pH, the Better
It may seem logical that if mildly alkaline water is considered beneficial, water with the highest possible pH should provide even greater benefits. In practice, this is not the case.
First, the body does not need extremely alkaline water. There is insufficient scientific evidence that drinking water with a higher pH provides greater health benefits [4].
Second, the mineral composition of water is also important when evaluating its potential nutritional benefits. Water may have a high pH but contain very little calcium or magnesium. Conversely, water with a relatively modest increase in pH may contain appreciable amounts of calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonates [1].
Furthermore, regularly drinking highly alkaline water without a medical indication has no proven benefits and is not recommended as a universal practice.
When choosing water, consider the following:
- Safety;
- Purification quality;
- Mineral composition;
- Suitability for the body's daily needs.
Mineral complexes such as Coral-Mine are intended to add minerals to drinking water and may increase its pH to mildly alkaline levels, depending on the composition of the water and the amount of product used.
Conclusion: A high pH does not make water more beneficial by itself. Its mineral composition, safety, and suitability for individual needs are also important considerations.
What Science Says: Evidence-Based Effects
Despite the many myths, certain properties of alkaline water are being investigated in scientific studies. However, it is important to understand that these studies concern specific physiological effects that may be useful in certain situations, not “miraculous health benefits.”
Scientific research examines both the pH and mineral composition of drinking water, including its bicarbonate and electrolyte content. Mineral composition can influence the water's nutritional contribution, particularly as a source of calcium and magnesium [1].
Effects on Stomach Acidity
One of the most extensively studied properties of alkaline water relates to its effect on gastric juice.
Laboratory research has shown that water with a pH of 8.8 can inactivate pepsin, an enzyme involved in protein digestion. However, this finding does not establish that drinking alkaline water is effective for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)[6].
However, several points are important to understand:
- This effect is temporary;
- It does not address the underlying cause of the condition;
- Alkaline water does not replace treatment prescribed by a doctor.
If heartburn or reflux symptoms occur regularly, you should consult a gastroenterologist. Relying solely on changes to your drinking routine instead of seeking a diagnosis is not recommended.
For a healthy person, mildly alkaline water may feel more comfortable if the stomach is particularly sensitive. However, there is no universal recommendation that applies to everyone.
Antioxidant Properties
Another widely discussed topic is the antioxidant properties of alkaline water.
Claims are sometimes made that it “neutralizes free radicals” and slows the aging process. Current scientific evidence is considerably more cautious.
Some studies focus on hydrogen-rich water, which contains dissolved molecular hydrogen. It has been suggested that hydrogen itself, rather than a high pH, may have antioxidant activity [7].
However, ordinary alkaline water and hydrogen-rich water are different products. An alkaline pH alone does not indicate the presence of molecular hydrogen.
Furthermore, most published studies to date have involved relatively small sample sizes. Larger clinical studies are needed before definitive conclusions can be drawn.
Therefore, this area currently offers potential avenues for further research, but no proven therapeutic effect can be claimed.
Hydration and Electrolytes
The most convincing evidence relates to the role of mineralized water in maintaining fluid balance.
During physical activity, hot weather, or intense sweating, the body loses not only water but also electrolytes, primarily sodium, potassium, and magnesium. These electrolytes help regulate fluid balance and are involved in muscle and nervous system function.
After prolonged exercise or heavy sweating, beverages containing appropriate amounts of electrolytes, particularly sodium, can help replace electrolyte losses and support rehydration.
For this reason, athletes and people with high levels of physical activity are often advised to consider not only how much fluid they consume but also its mineral composition.
Adequate hydration is important in everyday life, and drinking water can also contribute to daily mineral intake, depending on its composition [1].
One way to enrich drinking water with minerals is to use specialized mineral complexes. For example, Coral Mine gradually enriches water with calcium, magnesium, and other minerals, creating a mildly alkaline environment. This approach does not replace a balanced diet but may form part of a daily hydration routine.
Therefore, the most scientifically supported approach today is not the idea of “alkalizing the body” but maintaining adequate fluid and electrolyte intake to support the normal functioning of all body systems.
Who May Benefit from Alkaline Water?
Alkaline water is not essential for everyone. However, in certain situations, water with a mildly alkaline pH and an adequate mineral content may be a useful part of a daily hydration routine.
People who exercise regularly
During exercise, the body loses water and electrolytes through sweat. If only fluid volume is replenished without considering mineral content, recovery may be less effective.
Mineralized water can contribute to fluid and electrolyte intake during physical activity, depending on its mineral composition.
People who spend a lot of time in environments with dry air
Air conditioning, heating, and low humidity increase moisture loss through the skin and respiratory tract. A person may not always feel particularly thirsty, even though their need for water has increased.
Maintaining a regular hydration routine helps support adequate hydration throughout the day.
People who experience high levels of mental exertion
Even moderate fluid loss can affect concentration, reaction time, and performance. Adequate water intake is therefore particularly important for people who spend a lot of time at a computer, work with information, or make complex decisions [2].
{item:2221}People who want to establish a consistent hydration routine
Sometimes, the main problem is not the quality of the water but simply forgetting to drink it.
Using mineral complexes such as Coral Mine can become part of a daily ritual and help establish the habit of regularly replenishing the body's fluid needs.
It is important to understand that consistency is the key factor. Even the highest-quality water will not provide benefits if consumed irregularly or in insufficient quantities.
Contraindications
For most healthy adults, drinking mildly alkaline water is safe. However, there are situations in which changes to a hydration routine should be discussed with a doctor.
Extra caution is advisable:
- For people with chronic kidney disease;
- For people with mineral metabolism disorders;
- For people who need to restrict their intake of certain minerals;
- For people with certain gastrointestinal conditions that require a specialized diet.
Alkaline water should not be used for self-treatment or as a replacement for prescribed therapy.
There is also no need to aim for the highest possible pH. A healthy person's body maintains its own acid-base balance, so the main criteria when choosing water should be its safety, quality, and balanced mineral composition.
How to Obtain Alkaline Water
Today, there are several ways to drink water with a mildly alkaline pH. They differ in composition, ease of use, and consistency of results.
Natural Mineral Waters
Some natural mineral waters have a mildly alkaline pH due to their bicarbonate, calcium, and magnesium content.
When choosing this type of water, consider not only its pH but also its degree of mineralization. Highly mineralized medicinal waters are not suitable for everyday consumption and should be used only on a doctor's recommendation.
For regular hydration, drinking water with a moderate mineral content may be a suitable choice.
Alkalizing Supplements (Coral Mine)
Another option is to use mineral complexes that are added directly to drinking water.
For example, Coral-Mine gradually enriches water with naturally sourced minerals, raising its pH to mildly alkaline levels and changing its mineral composition. As a result, the water contributes to daily hydration while providing an additional source of minerals.* *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. References: Azoulay A, Garzon P, Eisenberg MJ. Comparison of the mineral content of tap water and bottled waters. J Gen Intern Med. 2001;16(3):168–175. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11318912/ ; 2. Popkin BM, D’Anci KE, Rosenberg IH. Water, hydration, and health. Nutr Rev. 2010;68(8):439–458. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1753-4887.2010.00304.x ; 3. World Health Organization. Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality: Fourth Edition Incorporating the First and Second Addenda. Geneva: WHO; 2022.; 4. Torborg L. Mayo Clinic Q and A: For most people, drinking plain water is the best way to stay hydrated. Mayo Clinic News Network. December 27, 2019. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-for-most-people-drinking-plain-water-is-the-best-way-to-stay-hydrated/ ; 5. Cancer Research UK. Alternative cancer diets. Last reviewed November 6, 2023. https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/treatment/complementary-alternative-therapies/alternative-cancer-diets ; 6. Koufman JA, Johnston N. Potential benefits of pH 8.8 alkaline drinking water as an adjunct in the treatment of reflux disease. Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol. 2012;121(7):431–434. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22844861/ ; 7. Ohta S. Molecular hydrogen as a preventive and therapeutic medical gas: initiation, development and potential of hydrogen medicine. Pharmacol Ther. 2014;144(1):1–11. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24769081/
Home Methods
Many tips can be found online for preparing “alkaline water” at home, such as adding baking soda, lemon, or other ingredients.
However, these methods have limitations.
Adding baking soda can increase the pH of water, but it also increases its sodium content. Regular consumption may be inappropriate for individuals who need to limit sodium intake, including some people with cardiovascular or kidney conditions.
Adding lemon juice does not make water alkaline. Lemon juice is acidic, and although dietary acids may be metabolized differently in the body, this does not mean lemon water has an alkaline pH.
For regular hydration, the most important considerations are water safety, quality, and suitability for individual needs. Natural mineral waters and mineral complexes may provide additional minerals, depending on their composition.
FAQ
Can alkaline water be consumed every day?
For most healthy adults, mildly alkaline water can be consumed daily as part of a normal hydration routine. The most important considerations are adequate fluid intake, water safety, and individual health needs.
What pH is considered alkaline for drinking water?
Water with a pH above 7 is considered alkaline, while a range of approximately 7.5–9.5 is often described as mildly alkaline. Mildly alkaline water can be part of a healthy daily hydration routine, particularly when it also provides beneficial minerals. However, there is no established optimal drinking-water pH for overall health. Water quality, safety, and mineral composition are important considerations.
Can alkaline water be made at home?
Some home methods can change the pH of water, but they may not provide a consistent mineral composition or predictable pH. For regular hydration, natural mineral waters or mineral complexes with known composition can be convenient options.
Is it true that alkaline water treats diseases?
No. There is currently insufficient scientific evidence that alkaline water treats or cures diseases. However, it can be part of a healthy daily hydration routine, and mineral-containing water may contribute to overall mineral intake. It should not replace appropriate medical care or prescribed treatment.
How is Coral-Mine different from ordinary alkaline water?
Coral-Mine is not ready-to-drink water. It is a mineral complex that is added to drinking water to enrich its mineral composition and help create a mildly alkaline pH. The emphasis is not only on adjusting the water's pH but also on providing naturally sourced minerals that complement daily hydration.*
