Hydrogen water vs Alkaline water; Are these better options than regular old filtered water?

By Marci Saeva | September 7, 2018 |

I have recently been asked if these alternative forms of water are better for you than regular filtered drinking water. After doing some research to first determine the differences between hydrogen water and alkaline water, I then considered whether these variations on water have additional health benefits.

This is what I found…

The differences are in what they are and how they are processed

Hydrogen water contains dissolved hydrogen gas increasing its hydrogen content. (1) Formation of hydrogen and oxygen atoms can be accomplished by adding magnesium to the water via a chemical reaction or by electrolyzing ionizers. (1)

Alkaline water with a higher pH, usually around 8 or 9 versus regular drinking water that has a pH of 7, some believe alkaline water can neutralize the acid in the body. (2) Water that is naturally alkaline is spring water that passes over rocks, picking up minerals, increasing its pH level. (2) It can also be produced using an alkaline water ionizer or through a chemical process such as electrolysis. (1,2)

The benefits

Hydrogen water contains antioxidants that can prevent and quench the effects of free radical damage that can contribute to premature aging and even cancer. Hydrogen water can aid in reducing inflammation within the body, that can lead to chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. (1,3) There are other claims that hydrogen water can increase energy and help improve workout recovery. (3)

Since alkaline water has a higher pH level than regular drinking water, some believe this offers the benefit of neutralizing the acidity of the body. (2) It also contains alkaline minerals and like hydrogen water has a negative oxidation reduction potential or ORP, in the ability to act as an antioxidant, possessing anti-aging and anti-cancer properties. (2) Some believe it can help certain health conditions including bone loss, treating elevated blood pressure, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), aid in weight loss, and improve immune system support. (1,2)

The risks

These are relatively safe alternatives to regular drinking water but there are some concerns you should be aware of. With hydrogen water, it’s not clear how much hydrogen is required for therapeutic benefit. (3) Hydrogen dissipates rapidly and can diffuse through plastic and glass bottles, so special aluminum coated containers may be better options to maintain the hydrogen content. (3) Hydrogen water appears to be relatively safe and seems to be a beneficial alternative to regular drinking water.

Some effects of alkaline water can have negative effects within the body which include reducing the acidity of the stomach. A low pH or acidic pH is required within the stomach to prevent the overgrowth of bacteria, while preserving the normal microbiome (good bacteria). (2) Another issue with reducing the acidity of the stomach is poor assimilation and absorption of certain nutrients needed for normal bodily function which include reduced B12, folic acid, vitamin D, calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc. Excess alkalinity in the body may lead to metabolic alkalosis, a serious condition which include nausea, vomiting, muscle twitching, tremors, neuropathy, confusion, and can lead to a reduction of free calcium in the body, resulting in bone loss. (2)

How to make your own hydrogen water and alkaline water

There are electrolyzing ionizers available online to make your own hydrogen water. Ensuring the hydrogen content to an extent versus the shelf life of bottled hydrogen water, with its rapid dissipation of hydrogen atoms. These hydrogen rich water ionizers are available online such as KINGDOMBEAUTY Portable Hydrogen Water Bottle Cup Recharge Hydrogen Rich Water Ionizer Maker Generator Large Capacity Battery Colorful Light Healthy Water Purifier Filter Treatment Blue.

Alkaline water, as mentioned above is naturally alkaline when it passes over rocks, in springs, where it picks up various minerals increasing its pH. (2) You can make your own alkaline water at home by adding lemon or lime to your water. Although, lemons and limes are acidic, they contain minerals that change the composition and thus the pH of water. (2) Another way to increase the pH of water is adding baking soda. (2)

Conclusion

More research needs to be done to back up the associated health claims with hydrogen water and alkaline water. They appear to be relatively safe, but as I say with anything, moderation and balance are key. Too much of anything can lead a deficiency elsewhere. It’s important to drink clean, filtered water whenever possible. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is one of the best things you can do for your overall health. Hydration is important not only for overall health but can reduce certain health conditions and their associated complications.

Drink up!

Posted in Blog and tagged #alkalinewater, #farmnutrition, #health, #hydrogenwater

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