When discussing the properties of ionized alkaline water, Oxidation Reduction Potential (ORP) is often confused with pH because the two values are frequently discussed together, but they are not the same thing. Alkalinity and acidity is measured by pH, which stands for Potential Hydrogen, is a measure of the amount of ionic hydrogen atoms that are dissolved in the water. ORP (also known as redox potential) measures the amount of free electrons in the water.
Free electrons in water will cause it to have an electrical charge. Because of this, ORP is measured as voltage. The amount of electrical charge that can be put in water is very small, so ORP values are expressed in thousandths of a volt, or millivolts (mV). For example, the Life Ionizer 9000 series can produce alkaline water with an ORP value of up to -850 mV, a very high value that means the water has a tremendous amount of free electrons in it.
Alkaline water as an antioxidant
Alkaline water must be combined with a proton donor – like vitamin C – to unlock it’s antioxidant benefit. In-vitro – in the lab – studies have shown that alkaline water enhances the antioxidant effect of vitamin C. Lab tests have shown that alkaline water does not have antioxidant effects on its own.
The best way to combine alkaline water with vitamin C is to mix it with powdered vitamin C. Simply mix the two together and drink. Alkaline water enhanced vitamin C is best consumed fresh.
The antioxidant potential of vitamin C enhanced alkaline water hasn’t yet been tested in animals or humans. So additional research is needed to confirm that vitamin C enhanced alkaline water provides benefits in the body.
Click here to learn which ionizers produce the highest ORP levels and get our free ionizer buyers guide.
References
Lee, MY, YK Kim, and et al. “Electrolyzed-reduced water protects against oxidative damage to DNA, RNA, and protein.”
Springer Link. Humana Press, 01 Nov 2006. Web. 2 Jul 2013. <http://link.springer.com/article/10.1385/ABAB:135:2:133>.
Hiraoka, A, M Takemoto, and et al. “Studies on the Properties and Real Existence of Aqueous Solution Systems
that are Assumed to Have Antioxidant Activities by the Action of “Active Hydrogen.”Journal of Health Science. Journal of Health Science, 09 Jun 2004. Web. 2 Jul 2013. <http://sciencelinks.jp/j-east/article/200421/000020042104A0723444.php>.
Abraham, Guy, and Jorge Flebas. “The effect of daily consumption of 2 liters of electrolyzed water for 2 months on body composition
and several physiological parameters in four obese subjects: a preliminary report.” Highbeam Research. Original Internist, 01 Sep 2011. Web. 2 Jul 2013. <http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-269433201.html>.
Has the FDA evaluated the antioxidant potential of alkaline water?
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The preceding information and/or products are for educational purposes only and are not meant to diagnose, prescribe, or treat illness. Please consult your doctor before making any changes or before starting ANY exercise or nutritional supplement program or before using this information or any product during pregnancy or if you have a serious medical condition.
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