Is Artesian Water Alkaline? The Ultimate Guide for Water Lovers

Hey there! I‘m Lillie Gabler, your friendly neighborhood water quality expert. If you‘re curious about artesian water and alkalinity, you‘ve come to the right place. Grab a refreshing glass of H2O and let‘s dive in!

What Exactly is Artesian Water?

Artesian water comes from a natural underground aquifer where water is stored between cracked layers of rock and clay. When a well is drilled into one of these aquifers, the internal pressure forces the water up to the surface without needing to be pumped. Pretty cool, right?

These special wells tap into water trapped deep below the earth‘s surface, sometimes hundreds of feet down! This natural filtration process also removes impurities, leaving refreshing, mineral-rich water.

What Factors Make Artesian Water Alkaline?

As the water filters through mineral-rich soils and rock layers, it dissolves good-for-you alkaline minerals like calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium bicarbonates. This gives artesian water a pH between 7.5 and 8.5, making it alkaline.

The most common minerals that contribute to the alkalinity are:

• Calcium – Supports bone health and metabolism
• Magnesium – Relaxes muscles and supports immunity
• Potassium – Regulates fluid balance and heart health
• Sodium Bicarbonates – Helps keep pH levels balanced

Together, these dissolved ionic compounds provide the refreshing zing in artesian water!

Does All Artesian Water Contain Alkaline Minerals?

Great question! While much artesian water has alkaline properties, not every water source produces alkaline H2O.

The aquifer geology impacts the final pH and mineral content. Aquifers flowing through limestone and volcanic rock tend to be more alkaline. Meanwhile, sandstone and granite aquifers create more neutral pH water.

In a 2019 water quality report, 35 artesian springs were tested across the United States. The results showed:

• 18 springs had pH levels between 7.5 – 8.5
• 12 springs had pH levels under 7.0
• 5 springs had pH over 8.5

So while the deep underground origin provides natural alkalinity, the specific aquifer and journey also affect the final profile. Bottom line: testing is needed to confirm the alkalinity!

Let‘s Talk Benefits! Why Drink Alkaline Artesian Water?

There are some great reasons to stay hydrated with alkaline artesian spring water:

pH Balance – Your body works hard to maintain a slightly alkaline pH around 7.4. Alkaline water may assist by neutralizing acidic foods you eat.

Bone Health – Calcium and magnesium keep bones strong. Alkaline water delivers these minerals naturally.

Hydration – Electrolytes like potassium and sodium help your body absorb more water than plain H2O.

Detoxification – Some studies suggest alkaline environments allow the body to clear toxins more efficiently.

While promising, more research is still needed to better understand these potential perks. But anything that keeps you hydrated is a win in my book!

Watch Out for Ultra High pH Waters

You may see some artesian brands touting pH levels above 9.0. While not harmful in moderation, take these numbers with a grain of salt. Natural artesian waters usually range from 7.5 to 8.5 pH. Higher levels could be artificially induced.

Too much alkalinity might also disrupt your body‘s natural acid-base balance. I recommend sticking to trusted brands with pH levels around 8.0 or below. Your body knows best!

How Does Artesian Alkaline Water Compare to Store-Bought?

Artesian water has some natural advantages over bottled alkaline waters:

• Natural mineral content – Artesian water pulls minerals straight from underground aquifers.

• Higher mineral concentration – More calcium, magnesium and potassium than artificially alkaline water.

• No additives – True spring water has no added ingredients, just the good stuff!

Of course, both bottled and artesian alkaline waters come with similar hydration and mineral benefits. I suggest trying different ones to see what you like best!

Are There Any Precautions With Drinking Alkaline Water?

Alkaline water is generally safe for most folks. But you may want to exercise some caution if you have:

• Kidney disease – extra minerals could increase strain
• Ulcers or GERD – alkalinity aggravates acid reflux
• Infants – mineral sensitivity until 6 months old

As always, chat with your doctor if you have any specific health conditions before making any big dietary changes like adding alkaline water.

Let‘s Recap!

• Artesian water comes from natural underground aquifers and may contain alkaline minerals.
• The water source determines the final pH and mineral levels.
• Potential benefits include pH balance, bone strength and better hydration.
• Look for trusted brands with pH levels below 8.5.
• Check with your doctor before drinking if you have specific conditions.

Thanks for learning with me! Hopefully you feel pumped (no pun intended) and ready to explore the world of artesian alkaline water. Stay hydrated, my water-loving friend!