In Japan, alkaline water is prescribed by doctors for digestive upset. In the US, clinical trials  have yet to be conducted, but one in vitro (in the laboratory) study showed that alkaline water neutralizes pepsin – the digestive enzyme that causes the damage associated with acid reflux.

Potential Benefits of Alkaline Water in the treatment of reflux

The study, called Potential Benefits of pH 8.8 Alkaline Drinking Water as an Adjunct in the Treatment of Reflux Disease compared the effect of alkaline water to neutral pH water. The researchers discovered that alkaline water permanently neutralizes pepsin. Plain water was shown to have no effect on pepsin. The study also showed that alkalized water neutralized hydrochloric acid.

While promising, the study can’t confirm  the same effect in the body as it did in the lab. This is because the study was performed in vitro (in a lab). To show the effect on acid reflux in the body, clinical trials must be conducted.

More Studies Needed

Alkaline water has only recently been introduced to the US. There are only a few American studies, and the results of most of them are considered preliminary. Alkaline water has been more extensively studied in Japan and Korea, where it is prescribed for digestive health. LIFE Ionizers is actively seeking partnerships with researchers that are interested in studying the health effects of alkaline water in clinical trials

Dr. Koufam Recommends Low Acid Diet and Alkaline Water

At the Voice Institute of New York, Dr. Koufman treats people with reflux using a combination of a low acid diet and alkaline water. In the study, she cites preliminary clinical data that shows that alkaline water and a low acid diet have shown therapeutic benefits for her patients.

Until further studies are performed, Dr. Kaufman’s recommendation is the only advice available for people interested in drinking alkaline water for digestive health.

Do you need more information on alkaline water? If so, contact us today at (415) 203-5519 for info on the latest studies and benefits of alkaline water.

Has the FDA evaluated the benefits of alkaline water for the stomach?

No. Alkaline water benefits for the stomach have only been medically evaluated in Japan and Korea.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.  The preceding information and/or products are for educational purposes only and are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, or treat illness. Please consult your doctor before making any changes or before starting ANY exercise or nutritional supplement program or before using this information or any product during pregnancy or if you have a serious medical condition.

Reference

Kaufman, J. A, Johnston, N. Potential Benefits of pH 8.8 Alkaline Drinking Water as an Adjunct in the Treatment of Reflux Disease www.annals.com/toc/auto_abstract.php?id=15887