How to Make Water More Alkaline?

In recent years, alkaline water has seen a steady rise in popularity across Europe. Whether it’s health influencers in Germany or fitness enthusiasts in the UK, more people are swapping regular tap water for its more alkaline counterpart. The trend is largely driven by claims that alkaline water helps balance your body’s pH, improve hydration, and neutralize acidity.

But before diving into the “how,” let’s clarify what makes water “alkaline” and whether it’s something worth integrating into your daily routine.

In chemistry, the term “alkaline” refers to a substance with a pH greater than 7. Regular tap water typically has a pH of around 7, which is considered neutral. Alkaline water , on the other hand, has a pH level of 8 or 9. Some natural sources, like spring water from mineral-rich regions, are naturally alkaline. However, you can also increase the pH of your water manually using a few straightforward methods.

The science is still emerging, but many people report feeling more energized and less prone to acid reflux or indigestion after switching to alkaline water. Some studies suggest that alkaline water may help with hydration, bone health, and even slow down ageing by neutralizing free radicals. However, it’s worth noting that the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has not officially endorsed these claims.

That said, drinking alkaline water in moderation is considered safe, and adding it to your routine may offer certain benefits — especially if you’re prone to acid reflux, dehydration, or fatigue.

There are several methods for increasing the pH of your drinking water, ranging from natural remedies to more advanced filtration systems. Here are some easy, cost-effective ways to make alkaline water at home — perfect for European kitchens.

Best for: Quick and budget-friendly alkalisation.

One of the easiest ways to make water alkaline is by adding baking soda. It’s a common household item across Europe and is incredibly affordable.

How to Use:

• Add ½ teaspoon of baking soda to 1 litre of water.
• Stir or shake until completely dissolved.
• Drink throughout the day.

Note:

Baking soda has a high sodium content, so it’s not ideal for people on a low-sodium diet.

Best for: Natural mineral boost and gentle pH balancing.

Though lemons are acidic, when metabolised, they have an alkaline-forming effect on the body. This makes lemon water a clever and natural option.

How to Use:

• Squeeze half a lemon into a glass of lukewarm water.
• Drink first thing in the morning for best results.

Bonus Tip:

Add a pinch of sea salt to enhance mineral content.

Before and after alkalising your water, it’s helpful to test the pH to ensure it’s actually more alkaline.

• pH Test Strips: Affordable and available at chemists or online.
• Digital pH Meters: More accurate and reusable, costing around €15–€40.
• Litmus Paper: Less accurate but quick and easy.

Ideally, aim for a pH between 8.0 and 9.5 for alkaline drinking water.

Tap water quality varies across Europe. For instance:

• Germany and Switzerland have soft water, often slightly acidic.
• UK water is mostly neutral to hard, which can still be slightly acidic.
• France and Italy may have variable mineral content depending on the region.

If you live in an area with acidic or very soft water, adding alkalinity can help restore mineral balance and improve taste.

In moderation, alkaline water is safe for most people. But excessive consumption can lead to:

• Altered stomach acidity
• Reduced absorption of certain nutrients
• Mild alkalosis (very rare)

Stick to drinking 1–2 litres of alkaline water a day unless advised otherwise by your GP or nutritionist.

If you’re looking to improve hydration, reduce acid reflux, or simply explore healthier lifestyle choices, alkaline water is a low-risk, potentially beneficial option. With a few affordable tools or natural methods, you can easily start at home.

Whether you’re in Barcelona or Berlin, London or Lyon, the methods listed above can help you take better control over the quality and pH of the water you drink every day.

• Add baking soda for a quick boost
• Use lemon juice to alkalise naturally
• Buy an alkaline filter jug for consistent results
• Use pH drops when on the move
• Install a remineralising RO system for full control