Alkaline water is simply water that has a pH level greater than 7.0, meaning it is less acidic than standard drinking water. While some people purchase bottled alkaline water or use specialized filtration systems, a common and inexpensive way to achieve this at home is by adding sodium bicarbonate, more commonly known as baking soda. Baking soda is a naturally alkaline substance that can effectively raise the pH of regular tap water.
Understanding pH and Sodium Bicarbonate
The pH scale is a measure of how acidic or basic (alkaline) a substance is, ranging from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is considered neutral, with values below 7 being increasingly acidic and values above 7 being increasingly alkaline. Most tap water in the United States falls into a neutral or slightly acidic range, typically between pH 6.5 and 7.5.
Sodium bicarbonate works because it is a basic compound with a natural pH of around 9. When dissolved in water, the bicarbonate ions (\(HCO_3^-\)) act as a buffer, neutralizing the acidic components present in the water. The goal of this process is to raise the tap water’s pH to a target alkaline level, generally considered to be in the range of pH 8.0 to 9.0.
The Precise Method for Mixing Alkaline Water
The recommended method for alkalizing water with baking soda involves using a very small, precise amount to avoid an overly salty taste. A standard ratio is to dissolve 1/8 teaspoon of pure baking soda into an 8-ounce glass of clean, filtered water. For larger batches, you can scale this up by mixing approximately 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda into one gallon of water.
It is important to stir the mixture thoroughly until the baking soda is completely dissolved and the water is clear again. Using room-temperature water can help the powder dissolve more quickly and effectively than cold water.
To confirm the successful alkalization, you can use simple pH testing strips, which are readily available at most pharmacies or online. Testing the water verifies that the pH has reached the typical target of 8 to 9. If the reading is too low, you may add a tiny pinch more, but it is important not to exceed the recommended ratio.
Safety Limits and Daily Consumption
While using baking soda to create alkaline water is generally safe for most healthy adults, daily consumption limits must be considered due to its sodium content. Sodium bicarbonate is a high-sodium compound, and adding it to water significantly increases your overall sodium intake. One teaspoon of baking soda can contain over 1,000 milligrams of sodium, which is a substantial portion of the American Heart Association’s recommended limit of 2,300 milligrams per day.
Excessive or long-term consumption of high-sodium water can be a concern, particularly for individuals who have hypertension, kidney disease, or are on a sodium-restricted diet. Overconsumption can potentially lead to side effects like bloating, gas, stomach cramps, and an electrolyte imbalance. Consuming too much baking soda can cause a condition called metabolic alkalosis, where the body’s pH level becomes too high.
It is highly advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before making alkaline water a regular part of your daily routine, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions. Occasional consumption is generally fine, but consistently drinking large quantities of baking soda water daily is not typically recommended.