Alkaline vs. RO Water: Which One is Better for Your Health?

Alkaline water is the latest health trend. You see every one from top cricketers like Virat Kohli to film stars like Tiger Shroff being papped with it. So is it all worth the buzz? Does it fare better over the good old RO water? Before jumping the ship, find out everything there is to know about it and if it’s recommended over RO water.

What is RO Water?

Reverse osmosis (RO) filtration is a highly effective process that removes contaminants by forcing water through a semi-permeable membrane. This method removes contaminants ranging from physical, chemical, and microbial impurities. It is the widely used technology in most of the commercial water purifiers. 

One of the biggest benefits of RO water is its ability to remove harmful substances like arsenic, lead, and fluoride that your regular filtration methods often miss. This is the most advanced purification system in the market and when combined with UV(Ultraviolet) and UF (UltraFiltration) filtration, offers the safest water. So, is RO water safe? Absolutely, it's one of the most reliable ways to ensure purity in every sip.

What is Alkaline Water?

Alkaline water has gained popularity for its supposed ability to balance the body’s pH and improve overall health. It typically has a pH level above 7, achieved naturally through mineral sources or by using water ionizers and alkaline filters. 

While some claim it reduces acid reflux, enhances hydration, and boosts energy levels, they lack strong scientific backing. Most commercial alkaline water is produced through the process of electrolysis where water is passed through an ionizer which separates the acidic and alkaline elements of your water, resulting in water with high pH, i.e., alkaline water,

Comparing Alkaline and RO Water

Which Water is Better for Health?

When it comes to the overall health and safety, RO water is the more reliable choice. It removes 99% of contaminants, including heavy metals, bacteria, and chemicals, ensuring clean and safe drinking water for daily consumption.

Alkaline water, on the other hand, is often marketed for its potential health benefits, such as neutralizing acidity and improving hydration. While some people find it helpful for acid reflux or digestion, there is limited scientific evidence to support long-term health advantages.

Are There Any Risks?

• RO Water Disadvantages: Strips away some natural minerals, but this can be balanced by using a mineralizer or consuming a mineral-rich diet.

• Alkaline Water Concerns: Excessively high pH levels (above 9) may cause digestive discomfort and interfere with stomach acid balance, leading to bloating or nausea.

Clarifying Common Misconceptions

Does RO Water Remove Essential Minerals?
RO filtration eliminates impurities, including some minerals, but modern systems include TDS controllers and mineralizers to restore essential nutrients. Since food is the primary source of minerals, purified RO water remains a safe and healthy choice for daily hydration.

Is Alkaline Water a Cure-All for Health Issues?
While alkaline water can help neutralize acidity in the stomach and may aid digestion, claims that it prevents diseases or drastically alters the body's pH lack scientific backing. The body naturally regulates its pH levels, making extreme alkalinity unnecessary.

Is Alkaline Water Always Better for Hydration?
Both RO and alkaline water provide effective hydration, but pH level alone does not determine how well water hydrates the body. While alkaline water may benefit those with acid reflux, excessive alkalinity can sometimes interfere with digestion.

Who Should Choose What?

So then, it boils down to whether you should be choosing RO water or alkaline water. Here’s our take:

If you live in an area with high TDS levels or contaminated water, RO purification is the safest choice. It effectively removes heavy metals, chemicals, and bacteria.

For those dealing with acid reflux or acidity, alkaline water may offer some relief. However, purity matters more than pH, so always ensure your alkaline water is free from contaminants.

For everyday drinking, RO water remains the most reliable option, especially in areas where water quality is questionable.

The debate really isn’t between RO water or alkaline water but what kind of water suits you best economically and one that suits your lifestyle. If spending those extra bucks to help with your acidity doesn’t pinch you, go for alkaline water. Else RO water is the purest there is and if you prefer a balanced approach, consider looking  for an RO system with remineralization feature, ensuring your water doesn’t lose essential minerals.