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The 15 Best Alkaline Water Brands of 2023
Hydration is essential to our health, but did you know that the type of water you drink makes a difference? Alkaline water has been making waves in the health and wellness world, and for good reason. It's believed to have several potential benefits for our bodies, from neutralizing acidic food to reducing oxidative stress.
Studies show alkaline water may improve bone health and muscle function due to its mineral content, including calcium and magnesium. It’s also associated with better hydration compared to regular water. Many athletes and fitness enthusiasts drink alkaline water before, during and after exercise to hydrate effectively. As far as digestion goes, the alkalinity in the water may help neutralize acid in the stomach, providing relief for those with acid reflux.
In this article, we’ve put together a list of the 15 best alkaline water brands of 2023 along with a buying guide for choosing the right one for your needs.
What is Alkaline Water?
Alkaline water is water that has been ionized to increase its pH level and make it more basic than regular drinking water. The pH level is a scale measuring how acidic or alkaline (basic) a solution is. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 0-6 being acidic, 7 being neutral, and 8-14 being alkaline. Most tap and bottled waters have a slightly acidic pH around 6 to 7.
Alkaline ionized water has a pH above 7, often between 8 and 10. This alkalinity is said to neutralize acid in the body, boost hydration, and offer other health effects.
When choosing an alkaline water, consider the following factors:
- Source - spring or purified water
- Filtration Method - Most brands use multi-stage filtration systems to remove impurities. This improves taste and purity.
- pH Level - The higher the pH (9.5+ being optimal), the more alkaline the water is. This affects potential health benefits.
- Mineral Content - Some waters have added electrolytes and minerals for flavor and nutritional value.
- Bottles - BPA-free plastic or glass. Glass is more eco-friendly.
- Taste - Yes, even water has subtle taste differences between brands.
Benefits Of Alkaline Water
In recent years, alkaline water has surged in popularity within the health and wellness industry. Several factors drive the hype around this unique type of bottled water:
- Anti-aging effects - Due to its neutralizing effect on the body’s acidity, alkaline water is said to slow the aging process and prevent disease. The high pH water counteracts oxidative damage from free radicals.
- Superior hydration - Evidence suggests alkaline water’s smaller molecular structure and negative oxidation reduction potential allows it to be more readily absorbed by the body and deliver better hydration per ounce compared to conventional drinking water.
- Detoxification - By reducing acidity levels, alkaline ionized water may help purge toxins and acids from the body more efficiently compared to regular water.
- Bone and muscle health - The mineral content in alkaline water, especially calcium, magnesium, and potassium, supports strong bones and muscles.
- Disease prevention - Alkaline diets are believed to maintain the body’s ideal pH level and prevent chronic diseases linked to acidosis, like kidney stones, osteoporosis, and cancer. Thus alkaline water fits this health regimen.
While many of the grander health claims around alkaline water still require more research, its proven ability to effectively hydrate and deliver nutrients helps explain its appeal for health-conscious consumers.
Top 15 Alkaline Water Brands
There are several alkaline water brands to consider that range in price from $2.50 to $4 per 33 oz bottle. These waters are available through brick-and-mortar retailers, online, and through the company’s official website.
Here are the best alkaline water brands:
1. Essentia Ionized Alkaline Water
One of the most popular brands that work exclusively with alkaline water is Essentia. Boasting a pH level of 9.5 or higher, this is some of the highest pH level water you can buy today. Essentia is specially formulated for maximum alkaline levels and is favored by athletes, especially competitive runners, and professional sportspeople.
2. SmartWater Alkaline 9+pH Water
SmartWater Alkaline 9+pH Water is from the famous brand SmartWater, owned by Coca-Cola. This brand is known for being widely available and popular with younger adults and urban athletes. You get 9 pH of alkalinity in every bottle, and a larger bottle size, making hydration on the go that much easier.
3. Icelandic Glacial Natural Water
Icelandic Glacial Water is perhaps the most prestigious offering, being 100% naturally alkaline glacial spring water from Iceland. The pH level is 8.4, making it naturally much more basic than typical spring water, and it’s rich in minerals and has a wonderful, crisp flavor.
BodyArmor SportWater is another great choice, boasting a pH level of 9.0., and containing added electrolytes. This makes it a bit of a hybrid between water and a sports beverage. This innovative brand also makes sports drinks in a variety of flavors.
TEN Spring Water offers a high pH level of 10. This brand is rich in electrolytes, which results in water that not only hydrates but also replenishes your body's electrolyte balance.
Good & Gather is a brand that provides alkaline water with a pH level of 9.5+. It's another great choice for those who want a high pH level in their water.
7. Phure
Phure offers alkaline water with a pH level of 9.5. This brand is known for its high pH level and the health benefits associated with it. Phure's water is purified and then enhanced with electrolytes and minerals. The brand uses a unique process to create its alkaline water, ensuring that the pH level remains stable over time.
8. Lifewtr
Lifewtr provides alkaline water with a pH level of 9.5. This brand is known for its commitment to providing high-quality, healthy water. The brand is also committed to supporting the arts, featuring rotating designs from emerging artists on its bottles.
9. AQUAhydrate
AQUAhydrate offers alkaline water with a pH level of 9+. Its water is purified through a multi-step filtration process and then enhanced with electrolytes and minerals. The brand is endorsed by several celebrities, including Mark Wahlberg and Sean Combs, further solidifying its reputation in the health and wellness community.
10. Evamor
Evamor provides alkaline water with a pH level of 8.8. Evamor's water is sourced from a unique artesian aquifer and is naturally alkaline, meaning no chemicals are used to raise its pH level. The brand is committed to sustainability, using BPA-free bottles and promoting recycling.
11. Flow
Flow offers alkaline water with a pH level of 8.1. Flow's water is sourced from the brand's own artesian spring, ensuring a natural and sustainable source. The brand also offers flavored versions of its alkaline water, providing a tasty twist on traditional alkaline water
12. Eternal Naturally Alkaline Spring Water
Eternal Naturally Alkaline Spring Water provides alkaline water with a pH level of 8.2. Eternal's water is sourced from protected underground springs and is naturally alkaline.
13. Core Hydration
Core Hydration offers alkaline water with a pH level of 7.4. The brand is known for its unique bottle design, which features a wide mouth for easy drinking and a contoured shape for comfortable holding.
Qure Alkaline Water is another popular choice for those seeking a high pH level in their drinking water. With a pH of 10, Qure's water is designed to counteract the acidic effects of a modern diet and lifestyle. The water is purified through a 9-stage filtration process and then enhanced with essential minerals and electrolytes.
15. Waiakea Hawaiian Volcanic Water
Waiakea Hawaiian Volcanic Water is sourced from the Mauna Loa volcano in Hawaii. The water naturally filters through volcanic rock, enriching it with minerals and electrolytes. With a pH range of 7.6 to 8.2, Waiakea offers naturally alkaline water that's also eco-friendly, as the company uses 100% RPET bottles and promotes sustainable practices.
Tips for Drinking Alkaline Water
If you want to test out the benefits of alkaline ionized water, here are some useful tips:
- Start slowly - If switching from regular bottled or tap water, introduce alkaline water slowly over the course of a few weeks. Too much too fast could shock the system.
- Don’t go overboard on pH - The healthiest level is under 10.0 pH. Extreme alkalinity can disrupt your body's natural pH balance. Brands like Essentia (9.5 pH) or Core (7.4 pH) are good starting points.
- Watch your intake - As with most things, moderation is key when it comes to alkaline water. Health professionals recommend no more than 1-2 liters per day. Consider it a supplement to regular water intake.
- Buy a filtration system - To save money in the long-run, investing in an under sink or pitcher alkaline water filtration system that can ionize your tap water is a smart move. This gives you an unlimited supply.
FAQ About Alkaline Water
What makes water alkaline?
Water becomes alkaline when it has a pH level greater than 7. This can happen naturally, like in certain spring waters, or it can be engineered through a process called ionization.
Is alkaline water safe to drink?
Yes, alkaline water is generally safe to drink. However, excessive consumption can lead to an imbalance in the body's pH levels. As with anything, moderation is key.
Can alkaline water improve my health?
Some studies suggest that alkaline water offers health benefits, such as better hydration, improved bone health, and relief from acid reflux.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best alkaline water comes down to understanding your specific needs and preferences. Whether you're an athlete looking for superior hydration, someone dealing with acid reflux, or simply someone who wants to enjoy the potential health benefits of alkaline water, there's a brand out there for you.
In the world of yoga, hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining focus and flexibility. At Yoga Society, we recognize the importance of hydration and the potential benefits of alkaline water. Integrating the best alkaline water into your yoga practice could enhance your performance and overall wellness.
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