{"id":86344,"date":"2025-07-23T16:19:14","date_gmt":"2025-07-23T16:19:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/86344\/"},"modified":"2025-07-23T16:19:14","modified_gmt":"2025-07-23T16:19:14","slug":"alkaline-electrolyte-or-tap-experts-on-the-best-water-for-hydration","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/86344\/","title":{"rendered":"Alkaline, Electrolyte, or Tap? Experts on the Best Water for Hydration"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/hand-holding-plastic-water-bottle-on-blue-surface-1296x728-header.jpg\" alt=\"Hand holding plastic water bottle with dark background\" class=\"css-1jytyml\"\/><a class=\"icon-hl-pinterest css-1dn5h5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" data-event=\"Any Page|Image Pinterest Click|Icon Clicked\" data-element-event=\"OPEN|CONTENTBLOCK|Any Page|Article Body|BUTTON|Image Widget Pinterest Click|\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/pin\/create\/button\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthline.com%2Fhealth-news%2Falkaline-electrolyte-tap-best-water-hydration&amp;media=https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.post.rvohealth.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F07%2Fhand-holding-plastic-water-bottle-on-blue-surface-1296x728-header.jpg&amp;description=Alkaline%2C%20Electrolyte%2C%20or%20Tap%3F%20Experts%20on%20the%20Best%20Water%20for%20Hydration\" title=\"Share on Pinterest\" data-pin-custom=\"true\" data-share-url=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/hand-holding-plastic-water-bottle-on-blue-surface-1296x728-header.jpg\">Share on Pinterest<\/a>Despite the popularity of trendy alkaline or electrolyte-infused waters, regular tap water can also help you stay sufficiently hydrated. Ekaterina Goncharova\/Getty Images<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Proper hydration is essential for health, especially during the hot summer months.<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Alkaline or electrolyte-infused waters are often touted for their purported health benefits, but experts say tap water is cheaper and probably sufficient for most people.<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Most people don\u2019t need added electrolytes in their water unless they are losing excess fluids.<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>You can follow your body\u2019s thirst cues to help ensure you are drinking enough water or monitor your recommended daily intake.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>As summer temperatures soar, so does the popularity of so-called \u201cfunctional\u201d waters \u2014 especially <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/food-nutrition\/alkaline-water-benefits-risks\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">alkaline<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/electrolytes-drinks\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">electrolyte-infused<\/a> varieties \u2014 often touted as \u201csmarter\u201d ways to hydrate when heat and humidity are at their peak.<\/p>\n<p>With so many options promising everything from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/hydration-top-iphone-android-apps-drinking-water\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">better hydration<\/a> to balanced pH levels, it\u2019s no wonder consumers are confused about which type of water is truly <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/what-is-the-healthiest-water-to-drink\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">healthiest<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>The rise of specialty waters, which may be packaged with sleek branding and lofty claims, has made plain old tap water seem a little too plain. But do these trendy alternatives really offer health benefits, or are they just expensive hype?<\/p>\n<p>According to experts, the truth may be much simpler \u2014 and cheaper \u2014 than it appears.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/welzo.com\/pages\/dr-blen-tesfu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\">Blen Tesfu<\/a>, MD, a registered dietitian nutritionist and physician at Welzo, told Healthline that <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/how-to-rehydrate\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">staying well hydrated<\/a> is especially important during the hotter months of summer.<\/p>\n<p>Tesfu said the higher temperatures during summer result in rapid fluid loss and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/dehydration\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">dehydration<\/a>, increasing the need to consume more water to replace the loss.<\/p>\n<p>Dehydration can cause tiredness, confusion, and reduced energy, said Tesfu.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cStaying hydrated is important because it allows the body to properly regulate temperature, promote energy through optimal <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/ways-to-improve-digestion\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">digestion<\/a> and absorption, and indirectly support organ function,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n<p>According to Tesfu, it\u2019s especially important to be proactive about hydration if you\u2019re outside being active or standing in the sun.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cAdequate hydration can help reduce the incidence of heat-related illnesses and is particularly important for athletes and outdoor laborers,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n<p>Tesfu explained that alkaline water has a pH higher than that of tap water, which generally falls in the range of 6.5 to 8.5<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe thinking behind alkaline water is that it can neutralize excess acidity in the body, which can support overall health,\u201d she said, adding that while some think it can alkalize the body or boost energy, there\u2019s no research supporting these claims.<\/p>\n<p>Electrolyte-enhanced waters, on the other hand, contain the essential <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/foods-with-minerals\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">minerals<\/a> lost during sweating and exercise.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cElectrolyte-infused waters can do some good if your body has just suffered a massive loss of electrolytes through sweat or heavy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/10-benefits-of-exercise\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">physical activity<\/a>,\u201d said Tesfu.<\/p>\n<p>She added that replacing electrolytes helps keep the body\u2019s fluid balance in check while also helping to prevent dehydration and cramping.<\/p>\n<p>Despite the popularity of these trendy beverages, they may not be necessary in order to stay hydrated.<\/p>\n<p>For most people, regular tap water should get the job done.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIt\u2019s cheap, readily available, and typically contains the minerals that your body needs to stay hydrated,\u201d Tesfu said. <\/p>\n<p>Everett agreed. \u201cFor most individuals, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/7-health-benefits-of-water\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">drinking water<\/a> throughout the day and consuming a diet with foods that are rich in minerals should support adequate hydration.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Everett shared some examples of foods rich in minerals:<\/p>\n<p>\u201cFor those who are more active in the summer or who tend to really sweat, a pinch of salt and a splash of citrus can help water mimic the benefits of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/electrolyte-water\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">electrolyte drinks<\/a>,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/19-hydrating-foods\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Water-rich foods<\/a>, such as watermelon, celery, strawberries, oranges, and lettuce, can also be helpful.<\/p>\n<p>Staying hydrated is especially important during heatwaves or if you\u2019re in a hotter climate. <\/p>\n<p>If you are going to be exposed to the heat for a prolonged amount of time, be sure to drink fluids before, during, and after. Be aware of the symptoms of heat-related illness, including elevated heart rate, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/muscle-cramps\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">muscle cramping<\/a>, and dizziness.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cFor those who are more active in the summer, a pinch of salt and a splash of citrus can help water mimic the benefits of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/electrolyte-water\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">electrolyte drinks<\/a>,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n<p>If you sweat a lot, you would probably benefit from adding electrolytes to your water to help replace what you lost through perspiration. <\/p>\n<p>Electrolyte replacement may benefit highly active people to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tandfonline.com\/doi\/full\/10.1080\/02640414.2011.614269\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\">promote recovery<\/a>, as well as those who work or exercise outdoors when temperatures are high.<\/p>\n<p>Electrolyte replacement should also be tailored to the individual, and needs may vary based on several factors, such as underlying conditions, any medications you\u2019re taking, your level of activity, or where you live. <\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re curious about electrolyte replacement, ask your a healthcare professional about the possible benefits.<\/p>\n<p>Conventional wisdom says you should drink eight glasses of water every day. However, the truth is that people\u2019s needs vary, from person to person, and even from day to day.<\/p>\n<p>NASEM guidelines suggest that females consume 2.7 liters (around 91 ounces) of water daily from both food and drinks. Males should aim to consume 3.7 liters (about 125 ounces) daily.<\/p>\n<p>They further state that people\u2019s needs will increase when they are active or in hot environments.<\/p>\n<p>Tesfu adds that a good way to monitor your hydration is to track the color of your urine.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cClear or pale yellow urine is a sign of sufficient hydration, while <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/urine-color-chart\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">dark yellow<\/a> or amber-colored urine may mean that you are drinking too little,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n<p>She also agreed with NASEM\u2019s advice to drink when you are thirsty.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s \u201cyour body\u2019s way of telling you you need fluid,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n<p>If you find that you don\u2019t really like drinking water, Everett reiterates that not all of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/how-much-water-should-I-drink\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">your water intake<\/a> has to come from fluids.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cFruits and vegetables are also hydrating and sources of electrolytes\/minerals and other healthy nutrients,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n<p>She also offered tips for making water more palatable.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cAdding lemon slices, fruits (e.g., <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/video\/11-reasons-to-eat-berries\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">berries<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/benefits-of-pineapple\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">pineapple<\/a>), herbs (e.g, mint, basil) or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/health-benefits-of-cucumber\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">cucumbers<\/a> can enhance flavor and promote drinking,\u201d said Everett.<\/p>\n<p>Cold brew iced tea is another option, she said, which can boost both flavor and your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/antioxidants-explained\" class=\"content-link css-1c2ok3c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">antioxidant<\/a> intake.<\/p>\n<p>So, no matter how you choose to stay hydrated, remember: at the end of the day, it\u2019s about listening to your thirst and finding what works for you.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Share on PinterestDespite the popularity of trendy alkaline or electrolyte-infused waters, regular tap water can also help you&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":86345,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[37],"tags":[58287,29775,210,11827,1182,58288,67,132,68,527],"class_list":{"0":"post-86344","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-nutrition","8":"tag-alkaline-water","9":"tag-electrolytes","10":"tag-health","11":"tag-hydration","12":"tag-nutrition","13":"tag-tap-water","14":"tag-united-states","15":"tag-unitedstates","16":"tag-us","17":"tag-water"},"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/pubeurope.com\/@us\/114903460513442578","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/86344","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=86344"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/86344\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/86345"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=86344"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=86344"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=86344"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}