Alkalizing water is easily achieved using a few simple methods. While the purported health benefits of alkaline water are debated, creating it at home is straightforward.
Methods for Alkalizing Water
Here are several ways to increase the pH of your water and make it more alkaline:
1. Using Baking Soda
This is the most common and inexpensive method. Multiple sources recommend adding a small amount of baking soda to water.
- Method: Stir ⅛ teaspoon (or even less, depending on desired pH) of baking soda into 8 ounces of water. Thoroughly mix until dissolved. (Several sources suggest this ratio. Some suggest as much as 1/2 a teaspoon but be aware of the increased sodium intake!)
- Caution: Baking soda contains sodium, so excessive consumption could lead to elevated sodium levels.
2. Using Alkaline Drops
Commercial alkaline drops are readily available online and in some stores.
- Method: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended amount of drops to add per glass of water. These drops usually contain minerals that raise the pH of the water.
- Note: The effectiveness and composition of these drops may vary.
3. Using Lemon Juice (Counterintuitive, but True)
Though lemons are acidic, adding a few drops to water can actually slightly increase the water's alkalinity after the citric acid is metabolized by the body. This method is less reliable for significantly changing pH levels compared to the other methods.
Important Considerations
- Scientific Evidence: While some believe alkaline water offers health benefits, there's limited scientific evidence to definitively support these claims. Many reputable sources, like the Mayo Clinic and Harvard Health, state that there is no conclusive evidence that alkaline water is superior to regular water.
- Natural Variations: The pH of your tap water can naturally vary depending on your location.
Conclusion
Choose the method that best suits your needs and preferences. Remember that while you can easily alkalize water, the claimed health benefits remain largely unproven.
