3 Steps to Naturally Increase the pH of Drinking Water

Generally, thepH level of water varies between 6.5 and 8.5. Drinking water too far out of this range may not be safe. Normal drinking water has a neutral pH of 7. Once the pH level reaches 8 or 9, water is considered alkaline. Advocates of alkaline water consider this to be thehealthiest water and believe that drinking water with a higher pH can neutralize the acid in the body. Alkaline water has a higher number of alkalizing minerals than theminerals in tap water.

In this article, we have outlined the best steps to naturally increase the pH of your drinking water.

1. Start by Testing Your Water’s pH Level

Whether you're drinkingfiltered water from a bottle, using anat-home water filter, or drinking tap water, it's possible to test your water's pH level. There are two easy ways to do this:

1. pH Meter: Fill up a clean container with water and let it sit for a few minutes to stabilize. Ensure the water level covers the tip of the electrode to get an accurate reading. Place the probe into the container and allow enough time to pass for the meter to reach an equilibrium. You can read the pH meter to get the results of your water sample. You can purchase a pH meter at any hardware store.
2. pH Papers: This is a simple and accurate way to test the pH of your water. Fill up a clean container and make sure it's deep enough to cover the testing strip. Dip the test strip into the container of water for a few seconds. Once the strip changes color, you can match it to the chart provided to see the pH level. You can buy pH papers at almost any drug or grocery store.

2. Add an Alkaline Substance to Your Water

If your water is neutral, or even on the acidic side, there are some natural substances you can add to increase its alkalinity.

Fresh Lemon

Although lemon juice is acidic, adding it to your water in small amounts has an alkalizing effect on the body. Lemons are anionic, so once you drink the water, it becomes alkaline as your body reacts with the lemon's anions. Squeeze the juice from one fresh lemon into 8 glasses of water to sip on throughout the day.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is a simple ingredient found in most kitchens. Baking soda sits at around 8.4 on the pH scale. The effect of baking soda will depend on your water's current pH level, and you won't be able to raise it past 8.4. However, mixing in 1 tsp (4 g) of baking soda with 250ml of water will raise its pH, making it more alkaline.

Milk of Magnesia

Milk of magnesia is an alkaline suspension, which means it causes neutralization when it encounters anything acidic. This makes this substance great for water on the more acidic side. Milk of magnesia comes in liquid form with a dosing cap or in tablet form. Add one dose to 8 glasses of water to sip on throughout the day.

pH Drops

pH drops contain potent, concentrated alkaline minerals. These drops can be purchased from health stores or online. Follow the specific instructions on the pH drops bottle when it comes to putting them in your water.

3. Check Your Water’s pH Again

Once you've added your chosen substance to your drinking water, check the water's pH level again to ensure it's between 8 and 9 and not too high. While drinking water with a higher pH is likely safe, be mindful of how your body reacts and drop the alkalinity if there are adverse reactions.

Health Benefits of Drinking Higher-pH Water

While there isn't much research to support the health benefits of drinking alkaline water, many health professionals believe there are advantages.

Better Hydration

Astudy done in 2017 showed that alkaline water had a positive effect on hydration, especially after a workout. It also has a positive effect on the pH of urine.

Improved Digestion

Alkaline water is considered therapeutic by many people who suffer from acid reflux. Alkaline water can aid digestion by reducing acidity in the intestinal tract and permanently destroying any pepsin that's present. Pepsin is one of the main contributors to acid reflux.

Slowed Aging Process

Research has suggested that drinking alkaline water slows down the aging process and may result in a longer lifespan.

Better Bone Health

Someresearch has shown that alkaline water has a positive effect on bone resorption, the process where the tissue in bones is broken down and absorbed by the body.

Conclusion

Reducing the body's overall acidity level achieves a more desirable and less inflammatory state, which puts you at less risk for chronic disease. Drinking alkaline water is a safe and natural way to boost your overall well-being.