The alkaline bottled water trend is so hot right now – celebrities and health gurus alike are endorsing its benefits over filtered and tap water. But it is more than just a health craze – it can help detoxify your body over time and help with health problems like high blood pressure and acid reflux.
To see the full benefits, you will need to ingest alkaline drinking water regularly. In fact, one of the most frequent questions we get asked is, “How much alkaline water should I be drinking a day?” Here is our answer – and a few more besides:
For regular water drinkers. It is widely known that health professionals suggest drinking at least eight glasses of water a day helps us feel hydrated, improves our well-being and flushes out everyday toxins we ingest.
If you have successfully achieved this daily limit, congratulations! You can just swap alkaline water for your tap or filtered water. We recommend drinking eight to twelve glasses (or two to three litres) of alkaline water per day to experience optimal benefits. Don not make a fast switch, though - transition slowly by mixing up your alkaline water intake with regular water while you get used to the changes your bodys pH levels.
For those upping their daily water intake. However, if you are not already used to drinking two or more litres of water per day, it is best to start slow. Try drinking three to four glasses at first and gradually build up your intake. This will minimise any initial effects of switching to alkaline over normal water you may feel, which can include headaches and muscle aches, gas flu-like symptoms and tiredness.
Not everyone experiences these side effects, but if you do, do not panic! It is actually a great sign that the alkaline water is doing its job of getting rid of the toxins and acid waste embedded deep in your muscle tissues. Once your body has become used to the lower levels of acid, any symptoms will subside – expect it to last two to three days or a couple of weeks, depending on your levels of toxification.
When should I drink alkaline water?
First thing. Starting your day with a glass of alkaline water gets your body ready for the rest of the day. Keep a bottle beside your bed so you can down it first thing.
During exercise. A strenuous workout tends to use up fluids fast, so rehydrate with alkaline water to slow down the process. You can take sips before, during and after your workout.
Hot tip: Never pair your alkaline water with food – your stomach needs acid, and the alkaline water will slow down the process. For this reason, it is recommended you drink at least thirty minutes before a meal and one and a half to two hours after meals.
