Health
Benefits of alkaline water
Discover the benefits of alkaline water.
You may have already heard about alkaline water and its many properties and benefits.
And, although there are few studies on the matter, many companies and individuals maintain that drinking alkaline water frequently is beneficial for health.
Its promoters claim that it can help delay the aging process, regulate the body’s pH level and prevent diseases such as asthma, dermatitis, neuralgia, among others.
And so much, and so contradictory, is the information about alkaline water, that a large number of people, concerned about their well-being, have turned to see it as a very good alternative to improve and maintain health.
But what is true in this?
What is alkaline water?
It is a type of water subjected to an ionization process that separates the alkaline and acidic fractions, increasing the pH and raising it to more than seven units.
The pH of water is determined by the minerals that are in suspension and can be defined as the measure of the acidity of a medium.
Seven (7) is the pH balance point. Below that level, it is considered an acid medium, and above 7 a basic or alkaline medium.
It must be remembered that the planet’s natural water is found in acidity levels between 6.5 and 9 pH units. Levels higher than 9 are usually toxic.
It is important to clarify that if the degree of alkalinization of the water is low, it does not have to cause any problem to the human being. However, excessively alkaline waters can cause damage to the stomach.
According to Healthline, one of the negative side effects of drinking alkaline water includes reducing the natural acidity of the stomach.
How is alkaline water obtained?
Alkaline water can be obtained in different ways. One of them is to buy it packaged in supermarkets or health food stores.
However, in 2019 the Federal Consumer Protection Office conducted a qualitative study of 22 alkaline water brands, in which it concluded that 19 of those 22 products offered unproven benefits on their labels to the consumer.
It can also be obtained through water purifiers, whose filter system retains sediment and bacteria, providing water with a high degree of minerals such as sodium, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
Another way to get it is at home. One option is to alkalize the water by boiling it for 5 minutes. In this way, it will increase its pH to 8.4, which is already considered alkaline water. It can also be obtained by adding half a tablespoon of baking soda to a glass of water. The pH will rise to 7.9.
In both cases, it’s important to use distilled water, because tap water or bottled water may have other additives.
What is the pH of water?
After talking so much about pH, you may be wondering what it is. The pH is a test that is carried out to know the quality of the water and indicates its acidity or alkalinity. Typically, these measurements are run on a scale of 0 to 14, with 7.0 being the neutral measurement.
From here, and above 8 points, they are considered alkaline. Below, they are considered acidic, always keeping in mind that in these measurements each point represents a tenfold change in acidity. That is, a pH of 6 would be 10 times more acidic than pH 7.
To give an example, we will say that lemon juice, which is an acidic liquid, has a pH of 2.5, while coffee has a pH of 5. On the other side of the scale, with a pH of 12, we would have water. limestone, which is when rainwater falls on an area with porous rock and soaks into the ground.
As it filters through the rock, it picks up and dissolves particles and minerals such as calcium and magnesium, gaining hardness and alkalinity.
At this point, you will surely ask yourself, what is the recommended pH of the water? According to experts -as established, for example, in the relevant regulations of the European Union- the pH of drinking water should be between 6.5 units and 9.5 units.
How to measure the pH of the water
There are manual and automatic pH meters. They are very simple and easy-to-use devices. And although automatic ones are more expensive, a manual meter will be just as effective at regulating water.
It is a kit that includes a test tube, two tubes, and reagents (substances or compounds to cause a chemical reaction).
You just have to take a sample of the water and, after following the instructions on the package, check what color the water stained with the reagent acquires.
Once the color is obtained, you should read the manufacturer’s instructions to know the degree of alkalinity.
Benefits of alkaline water
There are many benefits attributed to alkaline water. However, many studies are still lacking in this regard. Among the benefits that drinking alkaline water is said to have are:
It helps detoxify the body. Drinking alkaline water daily can neutralize acidity and remove acidic waste products from cells and tissues.
What is an antioxidant? Alkaline water is said to act as an antioxidant, scavenging and neutralizing harmful free radicals that damage skin and are responsible for aging.
This occurs because it supposedly can give up electrons and can effectively neutralize and block free radical damage in the body.
It helps balance the pH of the body. Alkaline water helps balance the body’s pH, which tends to be acidic due to a high-acid diet, stress, and exposure to environmental toxins like smog.
That improves the immune system. According to alkaline water enthusiasts, it preserves the immune system in a better state, which, as you know, is in charge of preparing the body to fight diseases.
That improves hydration. In the case of exercise-induced dehydration, the idea is supported that electrolyzed alkaline water reduces blood viscosity and vascular resistance.
What is an adjuvant in skincare? In addition to the health benefits attributed to drinking it, bathing in alkaline water is said to improve skin-related problems as well.
Lowers blood glucose levels. In some Asian countries, studies have been carried out that have shown that drinking alkaline water balances the functioning of the pancreas, thus helping to control blood glucose levels.
It helps in disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. Since alkaline water has a higher pH, its natural ability to neutralize acids in the stomach makes it a good choice for treating gastrointestinal tract disorders such as hyperacidity, diarrhea, etc.
It is said that in cases of laryngopharyngeal and gastroesophageal reflux diseases, alkaline water is efficient in neutralizing acid in the stomach.
That prevents osteoporosis. The human body strives to be slightly alkaline. The ideal pH level is 7.3 to 7.45. Alkaline water, which is obtained through purifiers, reaches these values and can even exceed them.
Those levels are very favorable for the human body. Well, consuming alkaline water prevents the body from extracting calcium from the bones to bring them to an alkaline state. That way you would be helping to prevent osteoporosis.
Is it good to drink alkaline water?
Some people claim that a more alkaline diet – including drinking alkaline water – can help reduce the body’s acidity and thus lead to better health and fitness.
And while the term “alkaline” has become a buzzword in health circles, the idea that everyone needs to drink alkaline water is a bit of a stretch.
Alkaline water is a controversial topic. Many health professionals say that there is not enough research to support the many health claims made by users and sellers.
Differences in research results may be related to the types of alkaline water studies.
According to the Mayo Clinic, plain water is best for most people and they maintain that there is no scientific evidence to fully verify the claims made by supporters of alkaline water.
However, some studies suggest alkaline water might be helpful for certain conditions.
For example:
A 2012 study found that drinking naturally carbonated alkaline well water with a pH of 8.8 can help deactivate pepsin, the main enzyme that causes acid reflux.
Another study suggested that drinking alkaline ionized water may have benefits for people with high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
A more recent study, involving 100 people, found a significant difference in blood viscosity after consuming high-pH water, compared to regular water, after intense training. Viscosity is the direct measure of how efficiently blood flows through the vessels.
Those who consumed water with a high pH reduced viscosity by 6.3% compared to 3.36% for standard purified drinking water.
This means that blood flows more efficiently with alkaline water. This can increase the supply of oxygen to the entire body.
However, beyond these isolated studies, more research is needed regarding alkaline water. In particular, research is needed to verify whether alkaline water offers all the benefits claimed by its promoters.
Despite the lack of proven scientific research, proponents of alkaline water still believe in its health benefits.
Therefore, when asked if it is worth buying and consuming this type of water, the answer is that it is better to hydrate with purified water.
There is a wide variety of point-of-use water purifiers on the market, both for offices and for the home, that purify water from the public network to obtain a liquid free of bacteria and viruses, with the pH that our organism needs.
There is a 2012 study that states that while an alkaline diet (including water) can reduce morbidity and mortality from chronic diseases, regular consumption of fruits and vegetables and an overall healthy diet are necessary.
Alkaline water is not a miracle product and is not a substitute for the benefits of a proper diet and healthy lifestyle.
It is also necessary to take into account that each organism has a unique pH, and our bodies naturally do a fantastic job of maintaining the pH of the blood within the necessary levels. Therefore, it is important to be cautious.
Finally, although there is indeed no contraindication regarding the consumption of this type of water, it is important to take into account how much alkaline water should be taken per day since it is not recommended to exceed its consumption since the body will always require natural liquid; that is, neither very alkaline nor very acidic either.
More than alkaline water, we need to improve our lifestyle
As you have seen, there is not enough research to support the benefits attributed to alkaline water.
It should be understood that the benefits could only be confirmed when combined with a healthy diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains), an active lifestyle (30 minutes of daily exercise), healthy sleep and rest habits, as well as avoid the consumption of alcohol and tobacco.
Discover the serious side effects of Topamax
One of the medicines used to treat seizures in adults is Topamax, the active substance of which is topiramate.
The taking of this drug should always be done under medical prescription and with the corresponding prescription, as well as it is essential to follow the instructions regarding the dosage indicated by the specialist.
To learn more about Topamax along with its indications, use, and side effects, keep reading this article.
What is Topamax for
Topamax is a topiramate-based drug used to treat seizures in adults and children older than 2 years.
This anticonvulsant is administered in the event of partial seizures with or without secondary generalization or primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures and for the treatment of seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome.
It should be noted that this drug is also used to prevent migraine, although not as a treatment to alleviate them.
Warnings about Topamax
Taking Topamax should always be prescribed by a doctor and it will be necessary to notify your doctor beforehand in case of:
•glaucoma or other eye problems
•kidney disease, kidney stones, or dialysis
•breathing problems
•mood problems, depression, or suicidal thoughts or attempts
•liver disease
•osteoporosis, osteomalacia
•growth disorders
•be taking lithium
•suffer from diarrhea
•being lactose or sucrose intolerant
•It is also not recommended to take Topamax by pregnant or lactating women, as this drug can cause fetal harm or be excreted through breast milk.
Likewise, you should never drink alcohol while you are being treated with Topamax, as the side effects can be very serious.
Side effects of Topamax
Different side effects derived from taking Topamax have been described, so you should go or notify your doctor quickly if you feel any of the symptoms described below:
•Allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the face, tongue, lips, or throat.
•Sudden changes in mood or behavior
•Anxiety and/or panic attacks
•Difficulty to sleep
•Irritation, agitation, and hyperactivity (mentally or physically)
•Depression or thoughts of killing yourself or hurting yourself
•Numbness or tingling in the extremities
•Headache, tiredness, dizziness, or drowsiness
•Changes in taste
•Nausea, diarrhea, indigestion, stomach pain, loss of appetite or weight
•Quick back and forth movements in your eyes.
Likewise, it should be noted that these are not only the adverse effects that Topamax can cause, so you should consult your doctor in case of any other type of alteration or symptom.
This article is merely informative, we do not have the power to prescribe any medical treatment or make any type of diagnosis.
We invite you to go to a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.
Discover the 18 benefits of peanuts during pregnancy.
Peanuts during pregnancy can be very beneficial for future mothers and their fetuses. Peanuts are not only delicious, but they are also packed with vitamins, minerals, and other natural compounds that are great for pregnancy, which you can’t miss.
You must remember that pregnancy is a wonderful gift that only women can experience.
Being pregnant is like a noble job ordained directly by God for women, something that men could not do on their own. During pregnancy, the fetus magically grows inside the woman’s womb until the baby is born into the world.
To ensure the optimal development of the fetus before it is born, mothers must consume highly nutritious food because it is the only way the fetus can obtain food.
When it comes to the list of foods that mothers should consume during pregnancy, the list will be endless, but you could consider the benefits of peanuts during pregnancy, as peanuts
Peanut Nutritional Values
Peanuts are considered a healthy snack. However, this does not mean that you can consume without knowing the nutrients that peanuts contain.
By knowing the nutrients contained in peanuts, you can measure the number of peanuts needed during pregnancy, since surely the needs of each one are different from those of others.
Serving Size: 100 grams
Energy 567 kcal – 29%.
Carbohydrates 16.13 g – 12%.
Protein 25.8g – 46%.
Total fat 49.24 g – 165%.
Dietary fiber 8.5g – 22%.
Folate 240 µg – 60%.
Niacin 12mg – 75%.
Pantothenic acid 1,767 mg – 35%.
Pyridoxine 0.348 mg – 27%.
Riboflavin 0.135 mg – 10%.
Thiamine 0.64 mg – 53%.
Vitamin E 8.33mg – 55%.
Calcium 92mg – 9%.
Copper 1,144 mg – 127%.
Iron 4.58mg – 57%.
Magnesium 168mg – 42%.
Manganese 1,934 mg – 84%.
Phosphorus 76 mg – 54%.
Selenium 7.2 µg – 13%.
Zinc 3.27mg – 30%.
Sodium 18mg
Potassium 705mg – 15%.
From the table above, surely you have a general idea of the number of peanuts you could consume daily.
The key is to consume it in moderation, but sometimes it is necessary to ensure that the daily intake of a certain nutrient can be met to ensure optimal development of the fetus.
18 Benefits of Peanut During Pregnancy
Below are the benefits of peanuts during pregnancy that will give you reasons why you should add this healthy and delicious snack to your daily diet.
1.- Excellent source of folate
During pregnancy it is highly recommended to consume foods rich in folate and peanuts are one of them.
For every 100 grams of peanuts, approximately 60% of the daily intake of folate could be covered. It is common knowledge that folate is essential for fetal development, especially early in the trimester.
2.- Natural source of vegetable protein
Protein is essential for a mother during pregnancy and 100 grams of peanuts contains enough protein to meet the daily intake.
3.- Prevents birth defects
The birth defect can occur when the development of the fetus is disturbed or when there are insufficient nutrients to support development.
Peanuts are packed with vitamins and minerals that are great for pregnancy like folate to support optimal growth and minerals like iron and calcium to make sure there is enough red blood cell stock.
4.- Promotes optimal brain development
It is great food for the brain. During pregnancy, the fetus receives nourishment from the mother, and the folate consumed by the mother is not only beneficial to the mother, but also the developing brain of the fetus.
If you want to have a healthy and smart baby, eat peanuts during pregnancy.
5.- Source of calories for the mother
Each mother’s calorie needs may be different, but calories are essential for increased energy.
During pregnancy, a mother may suffer from fatigue and get tired easily. To help boost energy, peanuts can help restore it.
6.- Contains healthy fats
Not all fats are bad and peanuts do contain some healthy fats that are great for the mother during pregnancy.
Healthy fats are great for promoting a healthy heart, as mothers are at high risk for high blood pressure during pregnancy.
7.- Reduces the risk of allergic diseases
Recent studies have indicated that mothers who consume peanuts during pregnancy may reduce the risk of allergic diseases.
Not only allergic foods such as peanuts but also other types of allergies such as asthma.
8.- Helps control blood pressure
High blood pressure during pregnancy could be fatal for both the mother and the fetus. That is why it is very important to always keep your blood pressure under control.
To help control blood pressure, adding peanuts to your daily diet is highly recommended because basically, peanuts are great for your heart.
9.- Prevents gestational diabetes
On the table, it was seen that peanuts are quite rich in manganese. This mineral has an important role in regulating blood sugar levels during pregnancy to prevent gestational diabetes. Additionally, manganese also promotes optimal calcium absorption.
10.- Fight depression
During pregnancy, the mother is at risk of stress and depression. Well, some studies have shown that mothers who eat peanuts are much happier than those who don’t. So whenever she feels stressed, she snacks on peanuts.
11.- Decreases the risk of weight gain
Obesity during pregnancy is never good for both mother and baby. That’s why managing your weight is so important peanuts, while they do contain fat and calories, fats are healthy fats and packed with other nutrients that may help you control calories.
12.- Promotes skin health during pregnancy
One of the problems that every mother has to deal with during pregnancy is the skin problem.
Although they are prohibited from using cosmetics due to their chemical content, they could manage their skin problem just by consuming peanuts. Vitamin E and antioxidants will help prevent all skin conditions.
13.- Source of vitamin E
Vitamin E is the reason why a pregnant mother should look good. Vitamin E promotes skin health and makes sure that there is no such skin condition that the mother has to face.
Therefore, they could focus on her pregnancy instead of giving birth to a healthy baby.
14.- Great source of omega 3 fatty acids
If you think that fish is not your friend during pregnancy but you know that you need a great source of omega 3 fatty acids, you could replace fish with peanuts because they contain quite high healthy fats.
15.- Excellent source of vitamin B complex
In the table above you can see the high content of vitamin B found in peanuts per 100 grams. Most of them could satisfy almost half of the daily intake of vitamin B.
16.- Contains powerful antioxidants
Antioxidants are not only a solution against cancer, but during pregnancy, antioxidants could help the mother to maintain her immune system so that she doesn’t get sick easily.
17.- Rich in minerals
Looking for a quick fix to meet your daily mineral intake during pregnancy, peanuts are the answer.
You could see the nutritional table above about the value of minerals found in peanuts. 100 grams of peanuts are capable of satisfying half of the daily intake of minerals that your body needs.
18.- Super healthy sandwich
Well, during pregnancy you need to make sure that you consume enough food to ensure the optimal development of the fetus. Add peanuts to your daily diet because they are the super healthy snack that everyone loves.
Peanut Precautions
Peanuts may be packed with vitamins, minerals, and other natural compounds that are beneficial during pregnancy.
The list of benefits of peanuts during pregnancy mentioned above are scientifically proven facts. However, there are still some precautions about peanuts that you should be aware of as well.
Allergic reaction is one of the common things that can happen when peanuts are consumed. If a mother has ever been diagnosed as allergic to peanuts, she should not eat them.
Some studies also claim, that too many peanuts consumed during pregnancy could increase the risk of allergic reaction to the baby when they were born. Therefore, it is better to consume it in moderate amounts.
Peanut butter can be delicious, but it is recommended to consume it in its real form, as peanut butter has been through some processing and care must be taken with the amount of refined sugar in peanut butter.
Be careful with salty peanut snacks too because they can be delicious to eat during pregnancy, but salt contains sodium that could increase your blood pressure level. High blood pressure during pregnancy can be fatal.
Peanuts are healthy snacks that mothers can add to their daily diet, especially in the early stages of pregnancy when morning sickness is at its worst.
Just by eating peanuts as a snack, you could at least ensure that the baby inside your womb is still getting the nutrients that she needs to develop.
However, you need to keep in mind the precautions mentioned above if you want to reap the full benefits of peanuts during pregnancy and not the other way around.
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