pH: What Is It?
The “
potential of hydrogen ” or pH denotes the basicity or acidity of
a solution. The pH scale is logarithmic, indicating that a change of one-unit results in a concentration
alteration of ten times. For instance, a pH value of 3 is tenfold more acidic compared to a pH value of 4. The
range of values spans from 0 to 14, with a neutral value of 7. A pH level of 7 or above is necessary to be
considered basic or alkaline, while a pH level below 7 indicates acidity.
In brief, the pH scale is as follows:
- 0–6: Acidic foods (like vinegar and lemon juice)
- 7. Neutral (pure water, for example)
- 8–14: Basic or alkaline (soapy water, baking soda, etc.)
Hydrogen ion (H+) concentration in a solution serves as the foundation for the pH
scale. As the concentration of hydrogen ions increases with decreasing pH, the solution becomes more acidic. On
the other hand, an alkaline or basic solution has a lower hydrogen ion concentration at a higher pH.
The proper maintenance of pH is essential for the proper functioning of biological
systems. Different body parts have pH levels that are ideal for their particular purposes. For instance, the pH
range of the stomach (pH of 1-3) is very basic to aid in digestion, while the pH of blood is normally between
7.35 and 7.45.
What Is Acidic Water?
A pH of less than 7 is regarded as acidic water. The pH scale measures the basicity
or acidity of water. Although it does not regulate drinking water pH,
the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) advises maintaining public
water pH between 6.5 and 8.
It’s possible that acidic water is good for skin, hair, and washing produce because
it has antimicrobial properties. It may also have many unfavorable and harmful side effects.
Advantages of Water with Acidity
Due to its strong antimicrobial properties, acidic water is useful in treating
atopic dermatitis, a chronic inflammatory skin disease that results in red, itchy rashes. Acidic water can
preserve the ideal pH balance in the body to hydrate the skin and guard against inflammatory skin disorders.
Acidic water has many advantages for hair health, including lowering dandruff and
preventing hair loss, even though research hasn’t supported these claims. Additionally, cleaning fruits and
vegetables with acidic water is advised due to its antimicrobial properties.
Acidic Water’s Health Risks
The
health risks of drinking acidic
water are obvious but its benefits are less clear. The high concentrations of heavy metals in acidic
water are a major cause for concern. Exposure to heavy metals poses a health risk to humans and can result in
symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain.
Acidic water consumption can also have an impact on the teeth and bones. Acidic
substances have the potential to harm the teeth’s protective hard outer surface. There have been allegations
that consuming acidic water can inhibit the absorption of calcium, eventually resulting in bone loss.
What is Alkaline Water?
The pH of alkaline water is higher than that of regular tap water. Thus, according
to the proponents, it can counteract the acidity of the bloodstream. There are people who claim that drinking
alkaline water can help ward off illnesses like heart disease and cancer. More investigation is necessary to
support these assertions, though.
Advantages of Alkaline Water
Antioxidant Qualities
Some brands of alkaline waters claim to have antioxidant qualities that can assist
the body in eliminating toxic free radicals. It is believed that antioxidants improve general health and may
help prevent certain illnesses.
Alkaline-Acid Equilibrium
Because an excessively acidic environment is thought to be connected to many health
problems, proponents contend that the pH levels of body can be balanced by drinking alkaline water. The body,
nevertheless, possesses intrinsic mechanisms to regulate pH levels.
Optimal Bone Health
According to certain research, eating an acidic diet may contribute to bone loss.
Supporters of alkaline water assert that it could help balance this acidity and improve bone health.
Digestive Wellness
Alkaline water may be able to relieve
acid reflux
symptoms and balance stomach acid. Individual reactions can differ, though, so if you have ongoing
digestive problems, it’s best to see a doctor.
Athletic Potential
Alkaline water can enhance hydration and, in turn, exercise performance, according
to certain athletes and fitness fanatics. To support these claims, more investigation is necessary.
It’s crucial to remember that although there may be some merit to these proposed
advantages, there is frequently insufficient or conflicting scientific evidence to back them up. Furthermore,
drinking too much alkaline water can have negative effects, like upsetting the body’s normal pH balance.
How can I find alkaline water?
You can find alkaline water in a lot of health food stores and grocery stores. It’s
available online as well. Numerous big-box retailers also carry water ionizers.
At home, you can also make your own. Another method to increase the alkalinity of
water is to add baking soda or pH drops.
No evidence suggests a daily limit on the amount of alkaline water that can be
consumed if the water is sourced from a quality source, ionized and re-mineralized, or properly filtered to
remove contaminants.
Alkaline Water’s Health Risks
Alkaline water may have health benefits, but there are risks and factors to think
about when consuming it, even though some people think it might be beneficial. Here are some things to think
about:
Changes in Stomach Acidity
It is possible to neutralize stomach acid, which is necessary for healthy
digestion, by consuming very alkaline water. This may cause digestive problems and obstruct the body’s normal
digestive processes.
Imbalance in Electrolytes
Drinking too much alkaline water can cause an imbalance in electrolytes, like
potassium and sodium. Electrolyte balance maintenance is essential for many body processes, including nerve and
muscle function.
Kidney Function
Long-term consumption of high pH alkaline water may cause additional strain on the
kidneys, which preserves the body’s acid-base equilibrium, according to certain research. Individuals who have
kidney problems must use extra caution.
Bone Wellness
Although a few people assert that drinking alkaline water improves bone health,
there isn’t much scientific data to back up this claim. Excessive alkalinity may occasionally cause problems for
the body’s normal metabolism of bones.
Medication Interactions
Certain medications may interact with alkaline water. When making major changes to
your water intake, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider if you are taking medication, especially
if it affects kidney function or electrolyte balance.
In conclusion, even though some people might benefit from consuming alkaline water
in moderation, it’s crucial to treat these claims cautiously. A balanced diet, plenty of water consumption, and
seeking the counsel of medical professionals are the best ways to stay hydrated and preserve general health.
Summary
The pH of water determines its alkalinity or acidity. Nevertheless, the
concentration of contaminants in drinking water is more representative of its quality than its pH. Therefore, it
is best to get a reverse osmosis system that provides you with quality and safe drinking water. This blog gives
a complete guide on choosing reverse osmosis water filters:
Best Reverse
Osmosis Water Filtration Systems of 2023.