Hydrogen Water vs. Alkaline Water
Introduction
What is better? Hydrogen water OR Alkaline water both, hydrogen water and alkaline water have gained attention due to claims about their potential health benefits. However, while they may sound similar, they are quite different from each other.
What is Alkaline Water?
Alkaline water is water at a higher pH level than regular tap water. The pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline any substance is, and alkaline water typically has a pH greater than 7. Alkaline water can be obtained using varied media, However, it's essential to note that not all methods impart antioxidant properties to the water.
The Science Behind Alkaline Water Ionizers
Alkaline water is produced by the process of electrolysis. The working mechanism of the alkaline water ionizers is based on platinized titanium electrodes, separated from each other by the passive separator diaphragm. The process of electrolysis results in the generation of H+ and OH- ions. A large surface area of electrodes is required to achieve higher pH and H2. The number of plates plays a crucial role in achieving a higher pH value. In this process, water is split into 50% alkaline water and 50% acid water. The ionization process creates separate streams of alkaline water at the anode and acidic water at the cathode. The result is Alkaline water that is not only alkaline but also rich in hydrogen commonly known to be therapeutic water at a high pH, the antioxidants in this water are attributed to the hydrogen produced during ionization. The minimum amount of minerals is necessary for achieving high pH and hydrogen rich water with this process
What is Hydrogen water?
Hydrogen water is water infused with molecular hydrogen, The hydrogen water generator uses two platinized titanium electrodes separated by the SPE membrane (Solid polymer electrolyte). Electrolysis produces H2 and O2. Minerals are not required to be added to the hydrogen water generator. Unlike alkaline water ionizers which often use multiple plates (7,8,9,11) to achieve a high pH level. Hydrogen water generators use only two plates. The surface area of the plates is not a critical factor here. The hydrogen molecule is made at neutral pH. A very small amount of water is wasted in a hydrogen water generator.
The Benefits of Hydrogen Water
Hydrogen is the strongest antioxidant, it combats oxidative stress and inflammation offering potential benefits for overall health. Being the lightest molecule, hydrogen penetrates to the cellular level and helps repair damage caused by harmful radicals.
Comparing Alkaline Water Ionizers and Hydrogen Water Generators
Hydrogen water generators focus more on delivering hydrogen rich water and hydrogen contained in water whereas alkaline water ionizers emphasize more on pH and high ORP (Oxidative Reduction Potential). Hydrogen water can be consumed by all age groups including pregnant women and is generally considered safe and beneficial, whereas alkaline water is not recommended for children and pregnant women because of its high pH value. Hydrogen water is considered to be one of the best antioxidants as it does not leave any by-products, unlike other antioxidants. The therapeutic action of hydrogen water driven by its potent antioxidant effect proves beneficial for individuals seeking enhanced physical performance and recovery in athletics. To mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation related to various diseases also lifestyle diseases like - Diabetes, hypertension, etc.
Conclusion
An alkaline water ionizer produces one stream of acidic water which can be used as an astringent whereas a hydrogen water generator produces both hydrogen-rich water and ozonated water with the latter being used for washing vegetables. Alkaline water ionizers and Hydrogen water generators both rely on the therapeutic properties of Molecular hydrogen. Whether you're looking to increase your antioxidant intake, improve physical performance, or simply make a healthier choice in your daily hydration, knowing the facts about these two types of water can help guide your decision.
