Alkaline water has gained popularity over the years due to its potential health benefits, such as promoting better hydration, neutralizing acidity in the body, and improving overall well-being. As a result, many people are seeking out this specialty water to include in their daily hydration routine. This article aims to guide you through your purchasing journey and provide valuable information on where to buy alkaline water.
You can find bottled alkaline water in various stores, both physical and online. Major marketplaces like Amazon and Costco offer alkaline water options from different brands, while specialized brands like Essentia and Smartwater also sell their alkaline products online or at local retailers. The prices for alkaline water typically range from $15 to $45, depending on the pack size and the brand’s source of natural alkalinity.
When shopping for alkaline water, remember to consider factors such as the brand’s reputation, source of alkalinity, and any added electrolytes or antioxidants that might enhance the hydration experience. As with any purchase, it’s essential to find an option that matches both your preferences and budget.
What Is Alkaline Water
pH Levels
Alkaline water has a higher pH level than regular tap water, usually ranging from 8 to 10. pH levels in water indicate its acidity or alkalinity, with tap water having a neutral pH of around 7. Drinking water with a higher pH level is believed by some to help neutralize acid in the bloodstream, but it is essential to avoid making exaggerated or false claims about its health benefits.
Minerals and Electrolytes
In addition to having a higher pH level, alkaline water also typically contains minerals and electrolytes. These essential nutrients, such as calcium, potassium, and magnesium, contribute to the overall taste and alkalinity of the water. While there is no scientific consensus on the health benefits of consuming alkaline water, some believe that the added minerals and electrolytes may help support vital bodily functions.
Ionized Alkaline Water
Ionized alkaline water is produced through an electrochemical process called electrolysis, which separates the water into two streams: one with a higher pH level and the other with a lower pH level. This process also infuses the water with negatively charged ions, resulting in ionized alkaline water. Some people prefer ionized alkaline water for its perceived health benefits and smoother taste, although it’s important to note that these claims remain largely anecdotal.
In summary, alkaline water has higher pH levels, often contains additional minerals and electrolytes, and can be ionized through an electrochemical process. While some people tout its potential health benefits, it’s crucial to be cautious about making exaggerated or false claims.
Health Benefits and Claims
Hydration
Alkaline water is believed to improve hydration compared to plain tap water. Some proponents suggest that because of its higher pH level, it can better hydrate the body. However, more research is needed to support these claims, and currently, there is no concrete evidence that alkaline water provides superior hydration.
Acidity and Energy Levels
It’s been suggested that alkaline water can help neutralize acid in the bloodstream, which in turn could improve metabolism and increase energy levels. While some individuals may experience these benefits, it’s important to note that scientific research has not yet established a clear link between alkaline water and improved energy or metabolic function.
Other Health Claims
In addition to hydration and acidity, proponents of alkaline water propose various other health benefits. Some of these claims include:
- Slowing aging through liquid antioxidants
- Improving digestion
- Reducing bone loss
It’s worth noting that the evidence supporting these claims is limited or anecdotal. More research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of alkaline water in providing these health benefits.
While alkaline water may not have a proven track record for delivering all of its proposed health benefits, it’s still considered safe for consumption. Individuals interested in trying alkaline water should do so with the understanding that more research is necessary before its various claims can be fully substantiated.
Buying Options
When it comes to purchasing alkaline water, you have several options available. The following sub-sections will explore the various avenues you can use when searching for your next bottle of alkaline water.
Online Retailers
One convenient method to purchase alkaline water is through online retailers. Amazon, for example, offers a wide selection of alkaline water brands, such as blk. Natural Mineral Alkaline Water and Phure Alkaline Water. In addition to the convenience of online shopping, you can also benefit from customer reviews and competitive pricing. Just make sure to check product descriptions and reviews for accurate pH levels and other relevant information.
Grocery Stores
If you prefer a more traditional in-person shopping experience, your local grocery store may also carry alkaline water brands. You can typically find bottled alkaline water in the same section as other bottled waters or in a designated health and wellness area. Top brands you may find at these stores include JUST Water and other popular names. When shopping in-store, it’s essential to read labels for pH levels, electrolytes, and source information.
Water Delivery Services
Besides online retailers and grocery stores, you can consider water delivery services as another option for acquiring alkaline water. Water delivery services can provide you with convenient doorstep drop-offs of your favorite brands, making it even easier to maintain a steady supply. Some services may cater specifically to alkaline water and offer various brands and package sizes.
It’s always essential to do proper research before deciding on the buying option that best suits your needs. Compare prices, read reviews, and determine the most convenient and cost-effective method for purchasing alkaline water for yourself.
Best Alkaline Water Brands
In this section, we explore some of the best alkaline water brands available. A few of them include Essentia, Flow, Evamor, Replenish, and Ten. These brands have been chosen because of their quality, taste, and reputations.
Essentia
Essentia Water is an ionized alkaline water with a pH of 9.5. This brand is known for its electrolyte infusion, which enhances hydration. Essentia sources its water from a Southern Californian tap supply and is considered the top-selling ionized alkaline water in the US natural foods market. Moreover, the brand is:
- Kosher-certified
- BPA-free bottle
- Donates over $1.5 million to humanitarian and environmental initiatives
Flow
Flow Alkaline Spring Water is a popular choice due to its refreshing taste and naturally occurring minerals. With a pH level of 8.1, Flow is sourced from an artesian spring in Ontario, Canada. This brand stands out for its:
- Packaging: 100% recyclable and BPA-free carton
- No added sugar, calories, or preservatives
- Certified organic flavors, like cucumber+mint and lemon+ginger
Evamor
Evamor Alkaline Artesian Water has a pH level ranging from 8.8 to 9.1. Sourced from a protected artesian aquifer in Louisiana, Evamor is known for its natural alkaline properties and smooth taste. Some key features of this brand are:
- BPA-free bottle
- Kosher-certified
- Rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium
Replenish
Replenish Alkaline Water is another good option with a pH level of 9.5. This brand promotes healthy living by providing water with added minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Replenish stands out for:
- Eco-friendly BPA-free packaging
- Contains trace amounts of 70+ beneficial trace minerals
- Supports a balanced diet and overall wellness
Ten
Ten Alkaline Spring Water is sourced from a pristine underground spring in the Appalachian Mountains. Boasting a pH level of 10, Ten ensures optimum hydration and high-quality alkalinity. This brand is:
- Rich in natural electrolytes
- BPA-free bottle
- Infused with minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium
To find the best alkaline water brand that suits your taste preferences and needs, try sampling from these options listed above. Remember to keep your personal requirements in mind, such as kosher certification or eco-friendly packaging, as you explore different brands.
Comparing With Other Water Types
Tap Water
Tap water is the most common and accessible water source, delivered to our homes through municipal water systems. The benefits of tap water include its low cost and easy availability. However, tap water may contain impurities, such as lead or chlorine, as well as minerals that can affect the taste and quality of the water.
Purified Water
Purified water undergoes a more rigorous filtration process, with the goal of removing contaminants and improving taste. There are various methods for purifying water, such as reverse osmosis, distillation, and UV treatment. While purified water is free from many impurities, it may not contain the beneficial minerals or trace elements found in some other water sources.
- Advantages: Cleaner and better tasting than tap water.
- Disadvantages: Lacks minerals and trace elements.
Vitamin Water
Vitamin water is typically enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to provide additional health benefits beyond hydration. These beverages may also include flavorings and sweeteners to make them more appealing. However, it is essential to note that vitamin water is not a replacement for a balanced diet.
- Advantages: Extra nutrients, appealing flavors.
- Disadvantages: May contain added sugar or artificial ingredients.
High pH Water
High pH water, also referred to as alkaline water, has a higher pH level than regular tap water. Proponents of alkaline water claim that it can help neutralize acid in the bloodstream and provide health benefits. Some popular alkaline water brands include Essentia, which boasts a pH level of 9.5 or higher, and Icelandic Glacial, which has a pH of 8.4 from natural filtration through lava rocks.
- Advantages: May offer potential health benefits.
- Disadvantages: Insufficient scientific evidence for all claimed benefits.
In summary, each water type offers unique attributes catering to individual preferences and needs. While tap water is affordable and accessible, purified water provides a cleaner taste, vitamin water adds nutrients, and high pH water may have potential health benefits.
Water Ionizers and ORP
How Water Ionizers Work
Water ionizers are devices designed to increase the pH level of water, making it more alkaline. They work by using a process called electrolysis, in which an electric current is applied to water, separating it into acidic and alkaline components. This creates an antioxidant-rich, alkaline water that is believed to offer several health benefits. There are numerous water ionizers available on the market, with prices and features ranging widely. Some popular models include the Aqua Ionizer Deluxe PRO and Aqua Ionizer Deluxe 7.0, both known for their advanced technology and multiple water settings.
- Aqua Ionizer Deluxe PRO: This ionizer has a pH range of 3.5 – 11 and can produce up to -820mV ORP. It can treat up to 4,000 liters of water per filter and comes with 11 water settings. It is available for purchase on Amazon.
- Aqua Ionizer Deluxe 7.0: This ionizer has a pH range of 4.0 – 11 and an ORP of -800 to +1000. It is praised for its advanced technology and powerful performance.
ORP and Alkaline Water
Oxidation Reduction Potential (ORP) is a parameter used to measure the presence of antioxidants in water. A lower ORP indicates water with higher antioxidant levels, which potentially can neutralize excess free radicals, contributing to better health. Alkaline water produced by water ionizers boasts a lower ORP than regular water, hence the popularity of these devices.
Water ionizer models can produce varying levels of ORP:
Aqua Ionizer Deluxe 9.0: This nine-plated water ionizer offers seven presets that allow users to adjust the alkalinity and add antioxidants to their drinking water. It has a pH range of 3.5 – 11.5.
Alkaline Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System: This high-quality alkaline water machine removes up to 99.99% of contaminants such as chlorine, lead, and fluoride from water. It yields higher pH results than many expensive machines.
For those looking for an alternative source of ionized alkaline water, Essentia Water offers supercharged ionized alkaline water in various bottle sizes for purchase at many retail stores. As a leading alkaline water brand in the US, Essentia Water provides quality, ionized alkaline water for hydration and overall well-being.
In summary, water ionizers are an excellent way to increase the pH level and ORP of drinking water, making it more alkaline and antioxidant-rich. When looking for ionized alkaline water, consider purchasing a water ionizer or opting for a pre-packaged alternative like Essentia Water. Take the time to explore different ionizer options and compare features to find the perfect fit for your needs.
Packaging and Recycling
Types of Packaging
Alkaline water packaging varies between different brands, with some using plastic, glass, or eco-friendly materials such as paperboard.
- Plastic: Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a common type of plastic used for bottling water. Some brands, such as Evian, use recycled plastic (rPET) in their bottles, with plans to make their bottles 100% rPET by 20251.
- Glass: Glass is another packaging option for alkaline water, offering a more premium feel and the advantage of being easily recyclable.
- Eco-friendly: Companies like Flow Alkaline Spring Water use responsibly-sourced paperboard containers2. These containers are sealed with plant-based caps, resulting in recyclable and 68-75% renewable packaging.
Recycling Initiatives
Many companies and governments are actively working to promote beverage container recycling. In California, the California Refund Value (CRV) program provides financial incentives for consumers to recycle their beverage containers3.
Some recycling initiatives include:
- CRV refunds: Consumers receive a 5-cent refund for each eligible container under 24 ounces and a 10-cent refund for containers 24 ounces or larger when they recycle at certified recycling centers4.
- Recycling centers: Over 1,000 recycling centers are available statewide in California where consumers can take their empty containers to receive the CRV refund3.
- Brand initiatives: Brands like Evian and Flow Alkaline Spring Water actively incorporate recycled materials into their packaging, with goals to improve the sustainability of their products1 2.
In conclusion, consumers have a variety of packaging options to choose from when purchasing alkaline water. As recycling initiatives continue to grow and evolve, the environmental impact of these containers can be minimized.
Added Minerals and Electrolyzed Water
Alkaline water is known for having a higher pH level than regular tap water, typically between 8 and 9.5. Often, this is achieved through the addition of minerals and electrolytes to enhance the taste and provide potential health benefits. Some brands also utilize electrolyzed water in their production process.
One option for purchasing alkaline water with added minerals is Alkaline88 purified ionized water. This brand offers 700mL bottles containing Himalayan minerals to provide improved alkalinity and taste. Another popular brand is Talking Rain AQA, which offers alkaline ionized bottled water with a 9.5 pH level. Their 20 fl oz bottles (pack of 12) are infused with electrolytes and minerals for improved taste.
Kirkland Signature, a well-known brand available at Costco, also produces alkaline water with ionized minerals. Their 1-liter bottles (18 ct) provide consumers with a convenient and affordable source of enhanced alkaline water.
Additionally, Bai Antioxidant Water is a unique option as it not only raises the pH of the water to 7.5 or higher through the addition of alkaline minerals but also includes the antioxidant selenium. Selenium has numerous health benefits, including heart disease prevention and immune system enhancement.
When choosing alkaline water with added minerals and electrolyzed water, it is essential to consider the following factors:
- pH level: The primary focus when selecting alkaline water should be the pH level – for potential health benefits, a pH of at least 8 is often recommended.
- Added minerals: Look for brands that specifically mention added minerals, such as Himalayan minerals or electrolytes, as these can improve taste and potentially offer additional health benefits.
- Source and production: Consider brands that use electrolyzed water, as this water goes through a process that adjusts the pH level and can yield a cleaner and smoother taste.
- Brand reputation: Research and opt for brands with positive reviews to ensure high-quality alkaline water options.
In conclusion, various alkaline water options are available on the market that contain added minerals and electrolyzed water. By considering the factors mentioned above, you can choose a product that best suits your taste and health preferences.
Alkaline Water and Price
Alkaline water has gained popularity in recent times due to its potential health benefits. The water, with a pH level between 9-10, is available in various types and sizes, with prices varying accordingly.
One of the well-known brands in the market is Alka Power, which offers a 1.5l bottle of mineral alkaline spring water. They claim that their product is the highest and most stable alkaline water available, with natural electrolytes such as calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and phosphate.
Another option for alkaline water is Alkalined, a leading supplier in Australia. They provide 24/7 refillable stations in Sydney where consumers can purchase the healthiest premium alkaline water.
For those who prefer Icelandic bottled alkaline water, The Better Beverage Co is a great choice. They have a network of national stockists that are expanding, catering to people around Australia.
When it comes to price, alkaline water prices usually range from slightly more expensive than regular bottled water to slightly higher for premium and imported brands. Prices may vary depending on factors such as quantity, brand, region or retail outlet. However, it’s worth noting that investing in a reusable bottle and refilling at a station can be a more cost-effective alternative for buying individual bottles.
Overall, the cost of alkaline water will differ, but choosing the right option for you will depend on your preferred taste, availability, and budget.
