Understanding the Chemical Reaction: Lemon and Water Alkalinity

Water has a neutral pH of 7, which is considered balanced. When you add a slice of lemon to water, it does indeed make the mixture more acidic, not alkaline. This misconception about lemon and water alkalinity is a common belief among many health enthusiasts. However, the reality is quite different and rooted in the basic principles of chemistry.

Why Lemon Makes Water More Acidic

Lemons are naturally acidic, and they bring this property to the water they are added to. Lemon juice has a pH level of around 2, which is strongly acidic (remember, pH 1-7 is acidic and 7-14 is alkaline). When you mix lemon slices with water, the water's pH level naturally drops. This is due to the sharp, tangy taste of the lemon and its acidic nature. While the final pH of the water may not be as acidic as the lemon juice itself, it is still lower than the neutral pH of 7.

To understand this further, consider that the lemon establishes a balance in the solution. Its acidic components neutralize some of the water's alkalinity, reducing the overall pH. This is why the final mixture is not as alkaline or as acidic as the lemon juice alone, but it is still more acidic than pure water.

Alkaline vs. Acidic: A Closer Look

There are two types of acidity and alkalinity, and it is important to distinguish between them:

Good Acidic: Substances like lemons, oranges, and grapefruits. These acidic fruits and vegetables have health benefits and can actually alkalize your body by stimulating the production of enzymes that balance the body's pH. Bad Acidic: These include processed foods and sodas, which contain high amounts of sugars and artificial ingredients that can have negative health impacts if consumed in excess.

Similarly, alkalinity can be categorized into:

Bad Alkaline: Chemical additives often found in bottled "alkaline" water, which can disrupt the body's natural balance. Examples include sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda, which can build up in the system and cause health issues if consumed in large amounts. Good Alkaline: This refers to the natural electrical restructuring of molecules, which can be achieved through dietary and lifestyle changes, leading to better health outcomes.

When you consume acidic fruits and vegetables, your body uses these citrus and acidic components to neutralize and balance the pH of your body. This is a natural process that helps maintain homeostasis, detoxify cells, and promote better health.

Alkaline Water: A Misunderstanding

Another common misconception is that drinking bottled "alkaline" water will make your body more alkaline. The term "alkaline water" often refers to water with a higher pH level but does not necessarily mean it is beneficial. Most of these bottled waters contain sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), which can disrupt your body's natural pH balance. Overconsumption of baking soda can lead to health issues such as muscle weakness, nausea, and even heart problems.

On the other hand, "alkalized" water is created through a process that involves applying electrical charges to the water, which can neutralize acidic toxins and restore the body's natural pH balance. This process does not involve adding any chemicals.

Dr. Jerry L. Tennant, an expert in bioenergetic medicine, and Dr. Corinne Allen, a well-known neurologist, have written extensively on this topic. Dr. Tennant's book, "Healing Is Voltage," explores how proper electrical current can improve health. Dr. Allen also has presentations on her website that further explain the concepts of good and bad alkalinity.

Conclusion

In essence, adding lemon to water can make it more acidic, not alkaline. However, the benefits of consuming acidic fruits and vegetables, such as lemons, oranges, and grapefruits, are well-documented. These foods stimulate the body's natural alkalizing enzymes and help detoxify cells.

When it comes to alkaline water, it is crucial to understand the difference between "bad alkaline," which can be harmful, and "good alkaline," which can support health. Always research the ingredients of any bottled water to ensure you are consuming a product that truly supports your health.

By debunking these myths and understanding the true nature of acidic and alkaline substances, you can make more informed decisions about your diet and overall health.