In recent years, interest in alkaline water filters has grown significantly among people concerned about the quality of their water. This equipment has become increasingly popular among those seeking differentiated hydration, potentially more beneficial for the body. Unlike conventional filters, an alkaline water filter not only purifies water but also modifies its properties, raising its pH to more alkaline levels.
With so much information circulating on the subject, many wonder: after all, does the filter really regulate water pH? And what effects can this have on our bodies? Let's explore these questions and better understand how these systems work.
What is an alkaline water filter?
An alkaline water filter is a device designed to transform ordinary water into water with a higher pH, typically between 7.1 and 9.5 on the pH scale. Unlike conventional filters that only remove impurities, these devices are developed to modify the chemical properties of water by adding beneficial minerals that raise its pH. The technology of these filters goes beyond simple filtration, incorporating processes that can involve everything from the addition of minerals to more advanced ionization systems.
Water Shape's alkaline water purifiers, for example, incorporate what the company calls TriWay technology, developed over 26 years of research, which not only removes contaminants but also alkalizes and ionizes the water. This process transforms ordinary water into a version that can be more easily absorbed by the body, potentially bringing health benefits.
How do alkaline water purifiers work?
To understand how an alkaline water purifier works, it's important to understand the different stages the water goes through during the process. Most of these systems operate with multiple filtration stages, each with a specific function:
- Pre-filtration stage: Removes larger particles such as sediment, sand, and other physical impurities.
- Activated carbon filter: Eliminates chlorine, unwanted tastes and odors, and certain chemical contaminants.
- Alkalization stage: Adds beneficial minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, raising the water's pH.
More advanced systems, such as alkaline water ionizers, also use electrolysis. In this process, the water passes through a chamber containing titanium and platinum plates, where the ions are separated through electrical charges.
The result is water with a more negative charge, which may have antioxidant properties in addition to a high pH.
The Water Alkalization Process
Water alkalization occurs primarily through the addition of alkaline minerals. When these minerals dissolve in water, they release ions that interact with the water's acidic components, neutralizing them and increasing its pH. This is similar to what occurs naturally in some mineral water sources, where the water absorbs minerals from rocks along its underground path.
In the case of alkaline water purifiers, this process is reproduced in a controlled manner, ensuring that the final pH is within the range considered ideal for human consumption—generally between 7.1 and 9.5. Some models even allow the user to adjust the alkalinity level according to their preference, offering greater flexibility.
Minerals Present in Alkaline Water
Minerals play a fundamental role in water alkalization. The main minerals added during the process include:
- Calcium: Essential for bone health and muscle function.
- Magnesium: Important for over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including blood pressure regulation and immune system support.
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Potassium: Contributes to water balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction.
- Sodium: In small amounts, it helps maintain electrolyte balance in the body.
The presence of these minerals in water not only contributes to its higher pH but can also help supplement the body's mineral supply.
It's important to note that the amount of minerals added by alkaline water purifiers varies by model and manufacturer. Higher-quality systems tend to offer more balanced and consistent mineralization.
The Role of pH in Drinking Water
pH (potential of hydrogen) is a scale that measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is. This scale ranges from 0 to 14, where values less than 7 indicate acidity, 7 represents neutrality, and values above 7 indicate alkalinity.
The water we normally consume has a pH close to neutral, typically between 6.5 and 7.5, depending on the source. Tap water may have its pH adjusted during treatment to prevent corrosion in pipes, while natural mineral waters can have different pH levels depending on the minerals present in their sources.
However, many alkaline water advocates suggest that consuming water with a higher pH may have specific health benefits, although it is important to note that the scientific debate on these benefits is still ongoing.
How the Human Body Regulates Its Internal pH
To understand the potential influence of alkaline water on the body, it is important to understand how the human body naturally regulates its internal pH. The human body maintains different pH levels in different parts and systems:
- The blood has a tightly controlled pH between 7.35 and 7.45.
- The stomach is highly acidic, with a pH between 1.5 and 3.5, to aid in the digestion of food.
- The skin has a slightly acidic pH, typically between 4.5 and 5.5, to help fight bacteria. Benefits of Alkaline Water
Although the scientific debate continues, several studies have investigated the potential benefits of alkaline water. It's important to note that research is still ongoing, and results vary.
Some of the potential benefits that have been suggested include:
- Digestive support: Alkaline water has been studied for its ability to neutralize stomach acid pepsin, which could potentially alleviate symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn in some people.
- Supporting bone health: Some studies suggest that mineralized alkaline water may help slow bone loss, especially after menopause, possibly due to its mineral content.
- Physical performance: Some research suggests that alkaline water may aid muscle recovery after exercise, reducing fatigue and preventing cramps.
Choosing the Right Alkaline Water Filter for Your Home
If you're considering purchasing an alkaline water purifier, there are some important factors to consider to make the best choice for your needs:
- Filtration technology: Check the system's filtration stages. A good alkaline water purifier should not only alkalize the water but also efficiently remove contaminants such as chlorine, heavy metals, and sediment.
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Alkalization Level: Some systems allow you to adjust the water's pH level. This can be useful for those who want to start with a lower pH and gradually adapt to higher levels.
- Mineralization Capacity: Check which minerals are added to the water during the alkalization process. Quality systems add a balanced combination of beneficial minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
- Ease of Installation and Maintenance: Consider how easy it is to install and maintain the system. Some purifiers are compact and require no plumbing, while others require a water connection.
- Filter Durability: Check the lifespan of the filter elements and how easy they are to replace. Water Shape filters, for example, are designed to offer long durability, reducing the frequency of replacements.
- Certifications: Look for systems with relevant certifications, such as Inmetro, which attest to the quality and safety of the product.
Water Shape offers a line of alkaline water purifiers that combine advanced technology with elegant design, adapting to different needs and spaces. The brand's Smart Filters use exclusive TriWay technology, developed over 26 years, to deliver purified, alkaline, and ionized water.
To learn more about high-quality alkaline water purifiers and discover which model is best for you and your family, visit the Water Shape website, where you'll find detailed information about exclusive TriWay technology and all the benefits a quality alkaline water filter can provide for your well-being and quality of life.