Is Alkaline Water Healthier Than Tap Water? TikTok Seems To Think So
Before you start stocking your fridge with the pricey beverage, here's what our expert wants you to know.
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With temperatures skyrocketing to nearly 100-degrees across the country, there's no disputing the benefits of drinking water for optimal hydration. But is one type of water better for you than another? A new TikTok trend about alkaline water seems to think so. But is the mineral-infused H2O everything that the social media platform claims it to be? And how does it actually stack up against good old tap water? Below, we'll explain if it's better, worse, or a total wash.
pH 101
The "pH" scale is used to measure the acidity level of water and water-based solutions. The scale, which is based on hydrogen ion concentration, is numbered from 0 to 14. 0 through 6.9 are acidic measures, indicating a lower concentration of hydrogen ions, while 7.1 to 14 are basic, or alkaline, and contain more hydrogen ions. A score of 7 is neutral. The pH of orange juice, for example, is around 3 or 4, while chlorine bleach scores a 12. Pure water has a pH of 7, but the measurement can be manipulated.
What is alkaline water?
Alkaline water has a pH level that trends in the 8 to the high 9 range — some varieties may even reach as high as a 9.8. This higher level of alkalinity can occur naturally and is due to a higher mineral content of calcium, magnesium, and potassium, but this can also be done artificially. Machines called water ionizers can impart more hydrogen into a water source, or mineral additives can be used. You can find several varieties of bottled alkaline water available for purchase in stores, with many touting a pH level up to 9.5. According to a search of Instacart and other online retailers, bottled alkaline waters have a price tag of around $1.50 to $2.00 for a 12 fluid ounce bottle compared to $0.30 to $0.50 for 12 fluid ounces of regular bottled water.
Does alkaline water have health benefits?
There are numerous claims that drinking a steady flow of alkaline water will help neutralize acid in the body, improve hydration, and support bone health. Drinking more water certainly will help keep you better hydrated, but this works effectively with a more neutral pH level. As for neutralizing acid in the body, the pH of alkaline water is quickly neutralized once it meets the super acidic environment of the stomach, which is desirable for proper digestion. There is some evidence to support this alkaline flush may temporarily reduce the symptoms of heartburn, but this does not mean the pH of your blood will shift. Overall, your body tightly regulates its acid-base balance, mainly through the kidneys, regardless of the alkalinity of the water you drink.
Can alkaline water be dangerous?
Aside from the damage to your wallet, drinking alkaline water at a pH level of 9.5 or below may not pose a risk to healthy individuals. However, those with kidney diseases and other compromised kidney functions should check with a medical professional before use. Some people report stomach upset when drinking large quantities, which may be due to the temporary buffering of stomach acid. Ultimately, this can impede the stomach from effectively doing its job — digesting food!
What does science say?
Though a review published in 2026 showed small amounts of scientific evidence that pointed to some minimal benefits of alkaline water within the areas of hydration, bone health, and reduced oxidative stress, there is still a lack of substantial and definitive evidence pointing to true health-promoting benefits from its regular consumption. This study also cites numerous inconsistencies in pH and mineral potency in several bottled alkaline water products.
Is alkaline healthier than tap water?
No, alkaline water is not healthier than tap water. The bottom line — current research does not provide strong evidence that alkaline water offers significant health benefits. It is generally safe, but there is currently limited evidence that it provides major health advantages over regular drinking water for most people.
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