Is Alkaline Water Good for Pregnancy? Let’s Find Out!
Pregnancy keeps you on your toes. You constantly worry about whether it’s okay to eat this, drink that, and what happens if you consume anything unsafe for the baby.
You may hear about the numerous health benefits of alkaline water. You may consider trying it, especially during pregnancy.
Is alkaline water good for pregnancy? The short answer is that it depends and it’s always best to talk to your healthcare provider. There is not enough research that supports the claims of the benefits of alkaline water.
However, you can get the same benefits from regular water. So, if regular drinking water is safe, you can stick to it!
Ideally, it’s best to discuss this with your doctor. Whenever in doubt, let your doctor know about your concerns. Despite much online information, the doctor knows what’s best for an expecting mom. Read on for more information.
Can You Drink Alkaline Water During Pregnancy?
The pH scale helps determine whether the water you consume is acidic or basic. The pH level for acidic water is 1-7, but 7 is considered neutral, and the pH level of basic or alkaline water is from 7 onwards to 14.
Pregnant women should drink 8-10 glasses of water daily. It’s best if you can increase your water intake during pregnancy. It’ll be great for the growth and development of your baby.
It’s better if the pH level of the drinking water is between 6.5 and 8.5. The alkaline water has a pH of 8 or 9. So, you would find it suitable for drinking, but it must be within the range.
However, if you have any underlying medical concerns, it would always be better to talk to your healthcare professional. On the other hand, regular water that has a safe pH level and is safe for consumption would be beneficial for you!
According to a small study, electrolyzed alkaline water improved stool. There are also other health benefits that need further research and scientific backing such as alkaline water helping in providing immune system support, it’s suitable for skin cleansing, and a lot more.
Why Is Water Intake Important for A Pregnant Woman?
Water carries oxygen and nutrients to the human body’s different cells, tissues, and organs. So, if you drink enough water, your body can function normally.
Drinking enough water also helps in the nutritional development of the unborn baby. On the other hand, if a pregnant woman is working extra hard, for example, exercising or doing some chores, it’s best to take an extra glass of water to keep herself hydrated.
Regular tap water may not be safe for your baby! You can also check the pH level of water to be on the safe side. It’s also wise to indulge in a healthy lifestyle especially when you are expecting a new life. So, it’s best to ensure that the water you consume is safe for you and the baby.
Are There Any Potential Risks of Alkaline Water?
While you may be tempted to try alkaline water during pregnancy, it’s always best to be aware of the potential risks or cons related to it!
For example, there is not enough scientific backing or research to support the claims that are in the favor of alkaline water. During pregnancy, you may not want to take any chance that can be risky for you or the unborn baby. So, it’s always best to discuss the consumption of alkaline water during pregnancy with your doctor.
You can consider natural alkaline water, but there is also artificially created alkaline water available on the market. The point to consider is that when natural and safe water is available, then why take the chance?
Health Benefits Of Drinking Alkaline Ionized Water During Pregnancy
- The antioxidants in alkaline ionized water help the body fight off free radicals.
- Alkaline ionized water is full of hydrogen and is small enough to be easily absorbed by the body. This makes it less likely that you will become dehydrated.
- Heartburn and not being able to go to the bathroom often happen to pregnant women. When you drink alkaline ionized water, the harsh stomach acid is neutralized. This helps with heartburn and indigestion.
- When alkaline elements like calcium and magnesium are added to alkaline water, the mother gets more nutrients and energy.
- Adding Alkaline Ionized water to your diet along with other healthy foods can keep you healthy and help your immune system.
So Is Alkaline Water Pregnancy Safe?
If your doctor allows you, it’s okay to consume natural alkaline water during pregnancy. However, you need to specifically talk to your doctor if you plan on consuming a certain brand that claims the magical benefits of alkaline water for pregnancy!
It’s true that a quick online search would convince you to try alkaline water, but during pregnancy, always be cautious about what you put in your system. It’s not just about you, but also about your unborn baby. If you have questions, concerns, or doubts, discuss them with your doctor.
Please Note: The information in this article is not medical advice or suggestion. Pregnant and lactating women must always talk to their healthcare providers, doctors, or midwife and decide what’s best for them during the pregnancy.
FAQs
Q1: What type of water is safe during pregnancy?
You must consume water that’s safe and drinkable. You need to watch out for water contamination, especially if you live in an area where tap water may not be suitable for drinking. Lead, arsenic, pesticides, inorganic chemicals, etc are to be watched out for when consuming water everyday, especially during pregnancy.
Q2: How to know if the water you drink is safe during pregnancy?
You can test the water, install a filter, and boil water before use. Also, check with your community and find information on drinking water safety and regulations in your area. If there is water contamination, it would be best to consider a bottle of water. However, you need to find bottled water that is BPA-free during pregnancy.
Q3: What does alkaline water do to your hair?
The moisturizing properties of alkaline water may contribute to the promotion of a healthy scalp, which in turn contributes to stronger and healthier hair.
Wrapping It Up
If you are consuming alkaline water for the first time and it’s artificial, let your doctor know about it. The doctor may allow you to drink natural alkaline water that has a safe pH and is suitable for consumption.
It’s best to check the pH level of water and consume water that’s safe during pregnancy as it’s essential for the survival of not just the pregnant mothers, but everyone!