Is Waiakea Water Healthy? A Definitive Guide on the Benefits of This Volcanic Water

Hawaiian volcanic water has become my go-to hydration source over the past few years. As an avid renovator and self-proclaimed health nut, I‘m always on the lookout for ways to upgrade my home improvement projects and daily rituals. Sourced from the Mauna Loa volcano in Hawaii, Waiakea water makes some pretty appealing claims about both sustainability and health benefits.

But does Waiakea water actually stand up to the hype? Is it really one of the healthiest drinking waters available today? I decided to do an in-depth investigation to find out.

In this complete guide, I‘ll share everything I learned through extensive research and personal experience about Waiakea water, including:

• Where Waiakea comes from and how it‘s sourced
• The scientific data behind the health perks of drinking it
• How Waiakea compares to popular bottled water competitors
• Who benefits most from drinking Waiakea
• Expert tips for making Waiakea part of your routine

Let‘s dive in and find out if this volcanic water lives up to its reputation as a healthy hydration hero.

An Overview of Waiakea’s Origin Story: Sourced From a Volcano in Hawaii

Waiakea water comes directly from the Mauna Loa volcano, the second largest volcano in the world. This active volcano is located on Hawaii’s Big Island, standing tall at 13,678 feet above sea level.

The waters that feed the Waiakea springs and underground aquifers originate as snowmelt and rain on the pristine peaks of Mauna Loa. As the water travels down the volcano, it passes through thousands of feet of porous volcanic rock, filtering out impurities in a natural mineralization process.

According to Waiakea, this unique filtration system enriches the water with vital electrolytes and minerals like calcium, potassium, magnesium, and silica. The resulting water emerges with a perfectly balanced mineral composition and alkaline pH.

After being sustainably sourced directly from the Waiakea springs, the water is bottled at Waiakea’s facility positioned at the base of Mauna Loa. The local facility runs on 100% renewable energy and uses high-grade, 100% recycled plastic for its bottles.

So in summary—yes, Waiakea water does indeed come straight from a volcano in Hawaii! Its sustainable sourcing and bottling right near the source helps preserve the water’s natural purity and mineral content.

Analyzing the Health Benefits: Why Volcanic Water Is So Good For You

Drinking pure volcanic water straight from the source provides some stellar scientifically-backed health perks. Let‘s analyze the evidence-based benefits you can expect from incorporating Waiakea water into your daily routine:

Naturally Alkaline pH Level

One of the most prominent benefits of Waiakea water is its naturally high alkaline pH. While the average bottled water pH hovers between 5 and 7, Waiakea water has an alkaline pH of 8.8.

The higher pH level helps neutralize acidity within the body and support critical functions. According to a 2012 study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, alkaline water with a pH over 8 may help boost hydration levels and support the immune system.*

Alkaline water may also promote bone health and muscle recovery. A 2010 study in the Journal of Medical Food found drinking alkaline ionized water decreased markers for blood-based bone turnover and preserved bone mineral density in postmenopausal women.*

Rich in Essential Electrolytes

In addition to its stellar pH level, Waiakea water contains a generous blend of electrolytes like calcium, sodium, potassium, and magnesium.

Electrolytes have many crucial roles within the body. For example, calcium and magnesium support nerve signaling, muscle and heart function, hormone secretion, and pH balance.*

Potassium helps regulate fluid levels and cardiovascular health, while sodium is vital for cellular nutrient absorption, nerve signaling, muscle contractions, and pH balance.*

Compared to the average bottled water, Waiakea provides substantially higher levels of these essential electrolytes thanks to its unique volcanic rock filtration.

Waiakea Water Mineral Content

Mineral	Mg/L	Percent of Recommended Daily Value
Calcium	17	1.7%
Magnesium	13	3.25%
Sodium	28	1.2%
Potassium	22	0.67%
Silica	30	N/A

Abundant Minerals

In addition to electrolytes, Waiakea water delivers a hearty dose of minerals like silica. As the water passes through volcanic rock, it picks up these natural minerals.

Silica, for example, may support bone, hair, skin, nail, and heart health when consumed. According to one journal article, silica is also crucial for collagen synthesis and overall connective tissue health.*

Of course, the actual nutritional needs and mineral intake requirements varies person to person. But generally speaking, natural mineral waters like Waiakea can help provide higher levels of these health-supportive minerals with every glass.

Purity You Can Trust

Waiakea takes pride in the natural purity of their spring and volcanic waters. As the water filters through thousands of feet of rock, it emerges free of contaminants or pollutants you often find in groundwater.

The water then goes through a filtration process using nano-filtration membranes and granular activated carbon to remove any remaining impurities.

Finally, the water passes through ultraviolet purification to zap any microbes or bacteria, leaving behind pure, potable water ready for drinking.

This comprehensive purification process ensures Waiakea water retains its natural goodness straight from the source, without any additives or contaminants like fluoride or chlorine.

How Waiakea Stacks Up Against the Competition

Waiakea is far from the only bottled water brand on the market promising purity, hydration, and refreshment. So how does its unique mineral content and alkaline properties compare to competitors like Smart Water, Fiji, and Evian?

Here‘s a breakdown of how Waiakea water stacks up against other top bottled water contenders:

Waiakea

• Sourced from volcanic springs in Hawaii
• Naturally alkaline pH of 8.8
• Rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, and silica
• Focus on sustainability and ethical operations

Fiji Water

• Imported from an artesian aquifer in Fiji
• pH of 7.7
• Lower mineral content than Waiakea
• Often criticized for environmental footprint of importing water

Evian Water

• Sourced from springs in France
• pH of 7.0
• Lighter mineral taste than Waiakea
• Lower electrolyte levels

Smart Water

• Purified municipal tap water
• pH of 7
• Electrolytes added for taste
• Uses reverse osmosis filtration

Essentia Water

• Ionized to reach alkaline pH levels
• pH of 9.5 or higher
• Added electrolytes
• Does not have natural volcanic sourcing of Waiakea

While Fiji, Evian, and Smart Water are quality brands, none offer the naturally high alkaline pH and mineral diversity that Waiakea achieves straight from its volcanic source.

Essentia Water does provide alkaline properties through ionization, but lacks the sustainability practices and volcanic origin story unique to Waiakea.

For those prioritizing taste, cost, or convenience, those brands may still come out on top. But in terms of verifiable health benefits, Waiakea edges out the competition.

Answering Common Questions About Waiakea Water

If you’re considering making the switch to Waiakea as your go-to drinking water, you probably still have some lingering questions. Here I’ll address some of the most frequently asked questions about Waiakea water:

*Is Waiakea water really from a volcano?

Yes, Waiakea is 100% authentic volcanic water straight from the Mauna Loa volcano in Hawaii. It filters through thousands of feet of porous lava rock, infusing it with minerals and electrolytes.

What’s the pH level of Waiakea water?

Waiakea water has a naturally high alkaline pH of 8.8. This is much more alkaline than the average bottled water pH of 5-7.

*Does Waiakea contain fluoride or chlorine?

Nope! Waiakea water is completely free of additives like fluoride and chlorine. It retains its purity and natural composition straight from the volcanic source.

How does Waiakea water taste? Does it have a mineral taste?

Thanks to its unique mineral blend, Waiakea does have a subtly sweet, smooth taste. Some describe it as having a “fresh” taste. But it does not have an overpowering mineral or saline flavor like some mineral waters.

*Is Waiakea spring water or purified water?

Waiakea starts as a pure Hawaiian volcanic spring water. While it does undergo additional nanofiltration and UV purification, Waiakea would be considered a natural spring water.

*Is Waiakea water better than Fiji or Smart Water?

While personal preferences vary, Waiakea is generally considered healthier than Fiji and Smart Water thanks to its volcanic source, mineral content, pH level, and commitment to sustainability. But it comes down to your individual priorities and budget!

Who Can Benefit Most From Drinking Waiakea Water?

Thanks to its stellar nutrient profile and purity, Waiakea water has broad appeal for anyone looking to upgrade their hydration game. But these groups may benefit the most from incorporating Waiakea water into their daily routine:

Athletes and Active Individuals

The electrolytes, minerals, and pH level in Waiakea water make it an ideal choice before, during, or after exercise. Studies show alkaline water enhances hydration, aids muscle recovery, and neutralizes the acidity caused by intense training.*

The generous electrolytes in Waiakea water help replenish what’s lost through sweat. I personally notice a difference sipping Waiakea after tough home improvement projects or workouts.

Those Seeking Bone and Muscle Health

The calcium, magnesium, potassium, and silica levels within Waiakea water help support strong, healthy bones and muscles. The alkaline pH also minimizes bone resorption.

If you’re concerned about bone density or muscle performance as you age, drinking Waiakea water daily is smart preventive health.

Anyone Following a Clean, Healthy Diet

From green home improvement enthusiasts like myself to organic foodies, Waiakea fits perfectly into a clean, chemical-free lifestyle. With its purity and mineral content straight from an ancient volcano, Waiakea aligns well with health-conscious consumers.

Environmentally-Conscious Consumers

Between its sustainable sourcing and ethical production practices, Waiakea is a bottled water industry leader when it comes to ecological stewardship. If you prioritize green living and plastic waste reduction, Waiakea makes the short list of eco-friendly water bottle options.

Families With Children

Thanks to its stellar purity and quality, Waiakea is an ideal hydration choice for children and adolescents. The minerals and electrolytes help support growing bones, muscles, and metabolisms. And the lack of chlorine or fluoride avoids concerning additives.

No matter your age, gender, or interests, investing in your health through proper hydration with Waiakea water simply makes sense. Let volcanic power upgrade your water routine!

Expert Tips for Making Waiakea Part of Your Routine

Convinced yet that Waiakea water deserves a permanent spot in your kitchen or home gym? Here are my insider tips for making this volcanic water a seamless part of your day:

• Drink it first thing in the morning – Start your day off right by drinking at least 16 oz of Waiakea water right when you wake up. This helps flush out toxins and hydrates your body as you begin your day.

• Enjoy it before meals – Sipping Waiakea water 30 minutes before eating supports digestion and mineral absorption from foods. The silica may also help strengthen hair, skin, and nails.

• Stay hydrated during and after workouts – Keep Waiakea on hand during exercise and drink plenty post-workout. The electrolytes replenish what you lose through sweat, and the pH helps minimize soreness.

• Carry a reusable bottle – Invest in a BPA-free bottle you can refill with Waiakea water and take anywhere. This reduces plastic waste and ensures you stay hydrated all day.

• Make alkaline lemon water – For a refreshing twist, add fresh lemon juice to Waiakea water. This balances the water’s alkalinity for an energizing morning drink.

• Use it in smoothies and recipes – Incorporate Waiakea water into smoothies, juices, soups and more. The minerals give recipes an added nutrition boost.

The Verdict: A Healthy Upgrade for Your Hydration Routine

In conclusion, I can confidently say Waiakea water stands up to its reputation as one of the healthiest drinking waters available today. Thanks to the volcanic rock filtration process, Waiakea water delivers a powerhouse blend of electrolytes, minerals, and alkaline pH to support whole body health.

The focus on sustainable practices, ethical sourcing, and local operations further cements Waiakea as a quality brand focused on ecological stewardship. While personal preferences vary, the science, sustainability, and results speak for themselves—Waiakea deserves a spot on your shopping list and in your water rotation.

What are your thoughts after reading this complete guide to Waiakea volcanic water? Will you be giving it a try for the health perks? Share your takeaways in the comments below!