Alkaline water is a popular choice for those who are looking to enhance their wellness regimen. It is known for its higher pH level and mineral content beneficial to your body, such as improved hydration, detoxification, and overall body balance. However, the benefits of alkaline water can be significantly impacted if it is stored with the use of our most problematic material - plastic. Storing alkaline water in plastic bottles is a normal practice for us, it's the material that we use every day in different circumstances, however, this common practice for many might not be the best approach. If you use this method, you should know that it poses risks to both, the quality of the alkaline water stored and the environment.

The Nature of Alkaline Water
Alkaline water especially alkaline ionized water, is not just water with a higher pH. It is filled with a bounty of minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium. In addition, fresh alkaline ionized water offers beneficial antioxidant properties due to its potential for a negative Oxidation-Reduction Potential (ORP). However, alkaline water can be sensitive to the conditions in which it's stored.

Why Plastic Bottles Fall Short
The convenience of plastic bottles is obvious, it's a light, cheap, and hardly breakable material compared to glass, that we love to use daily. But when it comes to storing ionized alkaline water made by water ionizer or alkaline bottled water, plastic won't be the best choice. Here's why:
Chemicals: Many plastic bottles can leach chemicals into the water, especially when they are exposed to heat or sunlight. It can affect alkaline water in different ways, change water's pH, drop its antioxidant power, and possibly bring harmful substances into drink stored water.
Water Quality: Alkaline ionized water opens additional benefits from its enhanced properties when used fresh. Plastic bottles, particularly those not designed for storing ionized water, might not provide a full experience, leading to a faster degradation of the water's beneficial properties, including its pH and ORP levels.
Environmental Concerns: Beyond health implications, the use of plastic bottles contributes to environmental pollution. Choosing other storage solutions that will help maintain alkaline water benefits and environmental concerns is a win-win.
Alternatives for Storing Alkaline Water
To maintain the purity, potency, and beneficial properties of alkaline water, consider these alternatives:
Glass Bottles and Jars: Glass is inert and it won't interact with the water's pH or antioxidant properties. Sealed glass containers are the ideal solution for preserving alkaline water benefits, but be aware that they should be stored in a cool, dimly lit location.
Vacuum Stainless Bottles: For those who are away from home, high-quality stainless steel bottles can be a great option, because they are designed to minimize air exposure and light.
Ceramic Containers: Ceramic material, same as glass, doesn't leach chemicals into the water, making it a suitable option for home storage. However you need to make sure that the ceramic is glazed and intended for storing consumables, alternatively, there is a possibility for potential contamination.

Best Practices to Store Alkaline Water
To ensure the optimal quality of stored alkaline water, follow these guidelines:
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Store your water in a cool, dimly lit place to prevent the breakdown of its beneficial properties.
Keep It Sealed: Whether you choose glass or stainless steel, ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent air exposure, which can alter the water's pH and reduce its antioxidant effectiveness.
Chill If Possible: Keeping alkaline water chilled can help maintain its high parameters, especially if you plan to drink alkaline water within a few days of storage. But be aware that Oxidation-Reduction Potential (ORP) especially will change quickly and lose its benefits.

Conclusion
While alkaline water gives numerous potential benefits to your body, the way it's stored can significantly impact its quality and benefits. Due to the plastic bottle's disadvantages such as chemical composition and environmental impact, it doesn't provide an ideal storage solution. By choosing alternatives like glass, stainless bottles, and other proper storage practices, you can enjoy the full spectrum of benefits that alkaline water can offer you. Remember, the goal is to enhance your wellness journey, and the way to store ionized water counts towards achieving optimal goals. Shift away from plastic towards more sustainable options for your alkaline water storage. Your body and the planet will thank you.
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