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After her bariatric surgery, a (fictional) patient, let’s call her Lisa, struggled with hydration. She found plain water unappealing, often feeling sluggish and fatigued. When she switched to alkaline water, she felt refreshed and had fewer acid reflux episodes. But was it the alkaline water, or was she drinking more? Let’s break down the facts:
If you’ve undergone bariatric surgery, you know that staying hydrated is crucial. You’ve probably heard a lot of hype about alkaline water and its perks, but is it worth the extra cost? The answer isn’t black and white—it depends. Alkaline water has gained popularity recently, with many believing it offers various health benefits. Let’s explore these potential benefits and whether it’s a good investment for bariatric patients.
What Is Alkaline Water?
Walking down your store’s water aisle, you might notice pricey alkaline waters and wonder why. Alkaline water is like any other water but has a higher pH level. pH measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is on a scale from 0 to 14. Regular tap water typically has a neutral pH of around 7, while alkaline water usually has a pH of 8 or 9. Alkaline water also contains alkaline minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
Potential Benefits of Alkaline Water
- Improved Hydration – Some studies suggest that water with a higher pH level is more easily absorbed, leading to better hydration. Proper hydration is crucial after bariatric surgery, as it aids recovery and promotes overall health. Alkaline water may help.
- Acid Reflux Reduction – One of alkaline water’s most cited benefits is its ability to reduce acid reflux. A higher pH level can help neutralize stomach acid, which may relieve heartburn symptoms. However, reducing acid is only half the battle—it doesn’t address the root cause of reflux. That said, speak to your surgeon if you experience reflux after having a gastric sleeve.
- Bone Health – Alkaline water is believed to support bone health. Some research suggests it can help reduce bone resorption—the process by which old bone cells are broken down and replaced with new ones. This might benefit individuals looking to maintain bone density, especially after bariatric surgery, when some struggle to maintain proper nutrient intake.
- Antioxidant Properties—Alkaline water often contains antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants can also promote recovery after surgery and support long-term health.
- Enhanced Detoxification – Proponents of alkaline water claim it helps detoxify the body by neutralizing acidity and removing toxins. While your body has natural detoxification processes, staying well-hydrated with alkaline water may provide additional support.
Is Alkaline Water Worth the Cost?
Alkaline water is usually more expensive than regular bottled or tap water. Do the benefits justify the higher price? When deciding whether to purchase alkaline water, consider your budget. If spending extra on it doesn’t strain your finances, it might be worthwhile. However, if you’re on a tight budget, regular water provides adequate hydration.
Assess the Benefits
Evaluate the potential benefits before deciding whether to spend more on alkaline water. It might be beneficial if you suffer from acid reflux or struggle with hydration. Grab a few bottles and see how it works for you.
The Bottom Line
Alkaline water may offer benefits following bariatric surgery, such as improved hydration, reduced acid reflux, and antioxidant properties. However, these benefits vary from person to person. The cost of alkaline water can add up, so consider whether these potential benefits are worth the extra money.
At the end of the day, your body’s hydration needs don’t care about pH levels—they care about consistency. If alkaline water helps you drink more, it might be worth the cost. If not, stick to what works for you. Either way, hydration is non-negotiable.
Always consult your healthcare provider before significantly changing your diet or hydration routine, especially after bariatric surgery.
