Alkaline water from a water ionizer is relatively new to the US, but has been studied and consumed in Asia for over a decade. The US FDA has not evaluated alkaline water for health purposes; the information on this page about alkaline water comes from Japan.

Clinical Testing of Alkaline Water has been conducted in Japan

The Functional Water Foundation of Japan defines alkaline ionized water as functional water – water drank for health purposes. The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare notification No. 112 states that water ionizers are: used for: “generation of alkaline electrolytic water for drinking to improve gastrointestinal problems”. (Association of Alkaline Ionized Water Apparatus 2010).

Voluntary Drinking Guidelines: Alkaline Water in Japan

The Association of Alkaline Ionized Water Apparatus (AAIWA) of Japan defines alkaline water as: “Alkaline ionized water is slightly alkali electrolyzed water with a pH of 9 to 10 created on the anode side by direct-current electrolysis of drinking water

In Japan, voluntary guidelines regarding the use of alkaline water have been established by the AAIWA based on standards set forth by the Japan Home-Health Apparatus Industrial Association and Japanese Standards Association. Some recommendations are:

This information is provided for educational purposes only; these guidelines have not been evaluated by the US FDA.

Alkaline Water and the Mayo Clinic

The Mayo clinic is the only recognized medical authority in the US to make a statement regarding the use of alkaline water. According to Mayo clinic nutritionist Katherine Zeratsky

Some studies suggests that alkaline water may help slow bone loss, but further investigation is needed to determine if this influences overall bone mineral density and if the benefit is maintained over the long term.
Zeratsky points to the lack of research on alkaline water when it comes to other health claims:

Because alkaline water has a higher pH level than does plain tap water, proponents say that it can neutralize acid in your bloodstream, boost your metabolism and help your body absorb nutrients more effectively. Some even say that alkaline water can help prevent disease and slow the aging process. However, researchers haven’t verified these claims. (Zeratsky, K)

Is Alkaline Water right for you?

LIFE Ionizers urges you to talk to your doctor if you are considering alkaline water.

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References:

Description of alkaline water and information on its use in Japan:

Association of Alkaline Ionized Water Apparatus: Alkaline ionized water generation methods and characteristics: http://www.3aaa.gr.jp/english/alkali/wa.html#pagetop

Research in Japan on the use of alkaline water:

Association of Alkaline Ionized Water Apparatus: Research results for alkaline ionized water:
http://www.3aaa.gr.jp/english/alkali/kl.html

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