If you want to make reverse osmosis (RO) water alkaline, you can do so by remineralizing the water. Since RO systems remove almost all minerals from the water—along with contaminants—the resulting water tends to have a low pH, making it slightly acidic. Alkaline water, on the other hand, has a pH above 7 and contains beneficial minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
Here are several methods to alkalize RO water:
1. Use an Alkaline Filter (Remineralization Filter)
Many RO systems offer the option to add an alkaline filter or remineralization stage to reintroduce minerals back into the water. These filters are designed to raise the pH by adding small amounts of calcium, magnesium, and other alkaline minerals.
How It Works:
- The alkaline filter is installed after the RO membrane in your system.
- It gradually dissolves minerals into the water, raising the pH to 7.5-9.5.
Benefits:
- Convenient: Once installed, it automatically remineralizes water as it flows through the system.
- Easy to maintain: The filter will need to be replaced periodically, usually every 6-12 months, depending on your water usage.
Example Filters:
- iSpring Alkaline Filter: A popular add-on for iSpring RO systems that increases pH and adds beneficial minerals.
- Aqua Ionizer Deluxe: Includes an alkaline filter stage for raising pH levels.
2. Add Alkaline Drops
Alkaline drops are a quick and easy way to raise the pH of RO water. These drops are typically made with mineral concentrates and are readily available in health food stores or online.
How It Works:
- Simply add a few drops of the alkaline solution to a glass of RO water (follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct dosage).
- The drops contain alkaline minerals like magnesium and calcium that increase the pH.
Benefits:
- Portable: Alkaline drops can be carried with you and used as needed.
- Easy to control: You can customize the pH based on how many drops you add.
Example Products:
- Alkazone Alkaline Booster Drops
- pH Vitality Alkaline Water Drops
3. Use a Mineral-Rich Salt (Himalayan Salt)
Adding a small amount of mineral-rich salt, such as Himalayan pink salt, can raise the pH of your water while also providing trace minerals.
How It Works:
- Dissolve a pinch of Himalayan salt into your glass or bottle of RO water.
- The minerals in the salt, such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium, help to make the water more alkaline.
Benefits:
- Provides additional trace minerals that may benefit overall health.
- Inexpensive and easy to implement.
Note:
Be cautious not to add too much salt, as this can raise the sodium content of your water. A small pinch is usually enough.
4. Use an Alkaline Water Pitcher
An alkaline water pitcher is another convenient option. These pitchers use alkaline filters that both remove contaminants and add minerals, increasing the pH of the water.
How It Works:
- Fill the pitcher with RO water, and the filter will increase the pH as the water passes through.
- The filters typically contain mineral stones or ion exchange resins that raise the water’s pH.
Benefits:
- Portable and doesn’t require installation.
- Can be used anywhere, making it great for homes and offices.
Example Products:
- Invigorated Water pH RESTORE Pitcher
- Seychelle Alkaline Water Pitcher
5. Add Lemon Juice
Although lemon juice is acidic in its natural state (pH around 2), it has an alkalizing effect on the body when metabolized. This makes it a simple, natural way to raise the pH balance of RO water.
How It Works:
- Add the juice of half a lemon to a glass of RO water.
- Once digested, the lemon juice promotes alkalinity in the body due to its mineral content.
Benefits:
- Simple, natural, and inexpensive.
- Adds flavor to your water, making it more enjoyable to drink.
Note:
Lemon water won’t necessarily raise the pH of the water itself but helps alkalize the body when consumed.
6. Use a Water Ionizer
A water ionizer is an electronic device that uses electrolysis to separate water into acidic and alkaline streams. It’s more of an investment but allows you to create highly alkaline water on demand.
How It Works:
- The water ionizer connects to your tap and splits water into acidic and alkaline parts by using electricity.
- Alkaline water is rich in minerals and can reach pH levels of 8-10.
Benefits:
- Produces customizable pH levels (from neutral to highly alkaline).
- Can provide continuous, high-volume alkaline water.
Example Products:
- Tyent UCE-11 Water Ionizer
- Life Ionizer MXL-15
Cons:
- Expensive and requires installation.
- Best suited for households with high alkaline water demand.
7. Add Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate)
Adding baking soda is a quick way to alkalize water because it is highly alkaline (pH of 9).
How It Works:
- Add about 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda to a liter of RO water.
- Stir until it dissolves, and the pH will increase.
Benefits:
- Readily available and inexpensive.
- Effective at raising the pH quickly.
Note:
Be cautious with baking soda because it contains sodium, and consuming too much sodium can have health implications, especially for people with high blood pressure.
Final Thoughts
There are several effective methods to make reverse osmosis water alkaline, each with its own benefits. Alkaline filters and mineral drops are the most convenient and reliable solutions, while water ionizers provide more control but come at a higher cost. Other methods, like adding Himalayan salt or baking soda, are quick and easy but should be used in moderation.
By remineralizing and alkalizing your RO water, you can enjoy the benefits of purified water that is also mineral-rich and balanced for better hydration and overall health.