# Is Alkaline Water Better Than Tap Water? Dietitians Explain
The alkaline water market has exploded in recent years, with manufacturers claiming the higher pH levels can neutralize acid in the body, boost energy, and slow aging. Dietitians say the science doesn't support these marketing promises.
The human body tightly regulates its pH through the lungs and kidneys. Drinking alkaline water has virtually no impact on blood pH levels, which stay around 7.4 regardless of what you consume. The stomach's acidic environment breaks down the water's alkalinity before it reaches the bloodstream.
Several rigorous studies have found no measurable benefit from alkaline water consumption. A 2020 review in the journal Nutrients examined multiple trials and concluded there's insufficient evidence to recommend alkaline water for health outcomes including bone health, kidney function, or hydration status.
Most tap water in developed countries meets strict safety standards and provides essential minerals like calcium and magnesium that support bone and heart health. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates tap water quality through the Safe Drinking Water Act, requiring hundreds of contaminant tests annually.
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Jessica Cording notes that for healthy individuals, plain water hydrates effectively whether it comes from the tap or costs $20 per bottle. The money spent on alkaline water would be better invested in whole foods that genuinely impact health, she explains.
People with certain medical conditions, particularly those affecting kidney function, should avoid alkaline water without consulting their doctor. The excess minerals can strain compromised kidneys.
The bottom line: save your money. Tap water provides hydration and minerals without the inflated price tag. If you're concerned about water quality, affordable filters remove specific contaminants better than alkalinity does. Focus on consistent water intake rather than chasing pH claims.