You may have seen alkaline water promoted as a way to “balance your body,” improve energy, or even protect against disease. With so many bold claims, it’s natural to wonder: is alkaline water actually better for your health?

Let’s take a closer look at what alkaline water is, what it can (and can’t) do, and whether it’s worth switching.

What Is Alkaline Water?

Alkaline water has a higher pH than regular drinking water.

• Regular water usually has a pH around 7 (neutral)
• Alkaline water typically has a pH of 8 or 9

Some alkaline waters occur naturally, while others are made by adding minerals or using special filters.

The Big Claim: “It Balances Your Body’s pH”

One of the most common claims is that alkaline water can make your body less acidic and improve health.

Here’s the important thing to know:

👉 Your body already tightly controls its pH.

• Your blood pH stays in a very narrow, healthy range
• Your lungs and kidneys constantly adjust to keep it there
• What you drink does not meaningfully change your blood pH

Even if a beverage is alkaline, your stomach acid neutralizes it quickly.

Does Alkaline Water Have Any Benefits?

For most people, alkaline water is not harmful, but it’s also not magical.

Possible upsides:

• It can help with hydration, just like regular water
• Some people like the taste better, which may help them drink more fluids

But research does not show strong evidence that alkaline water:

• Improves digestion
• Boosts energy
• Prevents disease
• Improves blood sugar or blood pressure control

If you’re drinking more water because you enjoy it — that’s a win. But the benefit comes from hydration, not the alkalinity itself.

What About Acid Reflux?

You may hear that alkaline water helps with acid reflux.

There is limited evidence that very alkaline water may temporarily reduce acid activity in the throat. However:

• It’s not a treatment
• It doesn’t replace lifestyle changes or medical care
• Results vary from person to person

If reflux is a concern, it’s best to talk with your care team.

The Bottom Line

Alkaline water is safe, but it’s not better than regular water for most people.

What matters most is:

• Drinking enough fluids throughout the day
• Choosing water over sugary drinks or infused water‍
• Staying consistent with hydration

If you enjoy alkaline water, you don’t need to stop. Just know that your body already knows how to take care of its pH and no special water is required.

Curious about lemon water instead? You might enjoy Does Drinking Lemon Water in the Morning Boost Metabolism?

If you have questions about hydration, digestion, or how fluids affect your blood sugar or blood pressure, your care team is always here to help.