Water is essential for life, but with so many claims about alkaline water’s supposed benefits, it’s easy to get confused. Some manufacturers market alkaline water machines as the key to better health, claiming they improve hydration, neutralize acidity, and even prevent disease.

But are these claims backed by science, or are they just marketing tactics?

At Eat for Life, we prioritize evidence-based nutrition and wellness. Let’s break down the myths surrounding alkaline water and compare it to distilled water, a scientifically proven source of pure hydration.

Waterwise 4000 Countertop Distiller

Myth #1: Alkaline Water Improves Hydration More Than Regular Water

One of the biggest claims about alkaline water is that it hydrates the body better than regular water. The reasoning? It has smaller water clusters, making it easier for cells to absorb.

The Reality

No scientific research supports this claim. Hydration depends on your body’s ability to absorb water, which happens efficiently regardless of the water’s pH level. The human body naturally regulates its hydration, particularly when provided with purified, clean water, free from contaminants and inorganic minerals that it cannot process.

Distilled water, on the other hand, is completely free of contaminants and minerals, making it one of the purest forms of hydration.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 86,607 chemicals are found in drinking water across the U.S., and most filters remove only a small fraction of these chemicals. Additionally, many water tests don’t screen for all these contaminants.

Myth #2: Alkaline Water Neutralizes Acid in the Body

Many alkaline water supporters argue that drinking high-pH water helps balance the body’s acidity levels and prevent disease.

The Reality

Your body naturally regulates pH through your lungs and kidneys. Drinking alkaline water does not significantly impact blood pH levels. If it did, it could be dangerous—too much alkalinity can disrupt normal bodily functions.

Distilled water is better than alkaline water for many reasons, while slightly acidic (due to absorbing carbon dioxide from the air), does not disrupt this balance. It’s safe, effective, and free of unwanted additives.

Myth #3: Alkaline Water Helps with Acid Reflux

Some believe that alkaline water neutralizes stomach acid, reducing symptoms of acid reflux and GERD.

The Reality

While studies suggest that highly alkaline water (pH 8.8 or above) may help temporarily deactivate pepsin, the enzyme responsible for acid reflux, this effect is minimal. Over time, relying on alkaline water may lead to digestive issues by disrupting normal stomach acid production, which is necessary for proper digestion.

Distilled water, on the other hand, supports digestion without interfering with stomach acid levels. It allows your body to function as intended without artificial interference.

Myth #4: Alkaline Water is Better for Detoxification

Many brands claim that alkaline water removes toxins from the body more efficiently than regular water.

The Reality

Your body already has a built-in detox system: your liver and kidneys. They filter out toxins effectively, regardless of the type of water you drink.

Distilled water is actually one of the best choices for detoxification because it is completely free from contaminants, heavy metals, and other pollutants found in tap water and some bottled waters. Keep in mind: distilled water doesn’t deplete your body’s minerals—toxins do.

Myth #5: Alkaline Water is a Cure-All for Chronic Disease

Alkaline water is often marketed as a miracle cure for conditions like cancer, arthritis, and osteoporosis.

The Reality

There is no clinical evidence that alkaline water prevents or treats any disease. Your body maintains a stable pH, and drinking alkaline water won’t change that.

What does support health? A balanced diet rich in whole foods, adequate hydration, and proper nutrition. Distilled water can be a great addition to this, ensuring your body gets pure, uncontaminated hydration without unnecessary additives.

Myth #6: Alkaline Water is More Natural than Distilled Water

Some people believe alkaline water is a more natural choice than distilled water.

The Reality

Most alkaline water is artificially altered using electrolysis machines, which change its pH. This process doesn’t make the water healthier—it just alters its chemical properties.

Distilled water, however, mimics the natural water cycle, where water evaporates, condenses, and falls as rain. It’s free from contaminants, pharmaceuticals, heavy metals, and pollutants, making it one of the purest forms of water available.

Myth #7: Alkaline Water Tastes Better Than Distilled Water

Taste is subjective, but some claim that alkaline water tastes better because it has added minerals.

The Reality

Pure distilled water has a neutral taste—clean and crisp. Alkaline water may taste slightly different due to added minerals, but these aren’t necessarily beneficial. If you prefer a certain taste, you can add natural minerals to distilled water by using mineral drops or a high-quality mineral filter.

Why We Recommend Distilled Water

At Eat for Life, we prioritize clean, science-backed hydration. That’s why we recommend distilled water over alkaline water.

Key Benefits of Distilled Water:

  • 100% pure – Free from contaminants, chemicals, and additives.
  • Supports natural detoxification – Helps your body eliminate toxins efficiently.
  • Balances hydration naturally – Works with your body, not against it.
  • Safer long-term option – Avoids potential risks associated with alkaline water.

For those looking for a reliable distilled water solution, we recommend Waterwise Distillers and Dispensers. These machines provide fresh, pure distilled water at home, ensuring you get clean hydration every day.

Why Choose Waterwise Purification Systems

While alkaline water is heavily marketed as a health solution, the truth is that there’s no solid scientific evidence supporting its benefits. The body naturally maintains its pH balance, and no amount of artificially altered water can change that.

Distilled water, however, is backed by science as a pure, safe, and effective choice for hydration. If you’re looking for clean, reliable water, consider investing in a high-quality water distillation system.

Get started with pure distilled water today! Check out Waterwise Distillers.

The High Zinc Diet

A healing guide for zinc deficiency.

The Low Copper Diet

A healing guide for copper toxicity.

The Pyroluria Diet

A healing guide for pyrrole disorder.

The Low Folate Diet

A healing guide for undermethylation.

The High Folate Diet

A healing guide for overmethylation.

Eat for Life white icon

Targeted Diets Lead to Better Health

Healing stories are powerful. Read some of the ways I’ve helped people over the years.

Schedule a  Free  One-on-One Consultation

If you’re ready to start your healing journey, schedule your free one-on-one consultation to discuss your current mental and/or physical health challenges, history, and desired health goals. Take the first step on your healing journey today.

Functional Nutrition from Eat for Life