It is common to hear from health experts how important it is to maintain good hydration levels in the body. For this reason, men are expected to drink around 3.7 litres of fluids in a day, whereas women can do well with 2.7 litres.
Hydration supports the transport of oxygen, glucose, and other important nutrients to various cells of the body and is essential for many other processes occurring within our bodies. While plain water is the best drink to quench thirst and maintain hydration, we have other varieties like mineral water and sparkling water available in the market.
Of late, a new kind of water is becoming extremely popular among celebrities and fitness enthusiasts. It is called “Black Water.” Curious to know more? Find all the details of this newest health fad down below.
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What is Black Water?
Black water, also known as black alkaline water, is the latest addition to health drinks. It has a black hue to it, hence its name. Fulvic acid is what gives this drink its characteristic black colour and is the main reason behind the many black water benefits.
In addition to fulvic acid, black water is also rich in minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium. These minerals maintain the electrolyte balance of the body and support vital body functions.
Another aspect that distinguishes black water from regular water is its alkalinity. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, wherein 7 is considered neutral, less than 7 is acidic, and more than 7 is alkaline. While the pH of regular water is 7 (close to neutral), black water drink has a pH of 8–7. Many of the health benefits of black water are attributed to the alkalinity of this drink.
And what about the taste? Is it the same as normal water or any different? Well, that depends on the black water brand you choose. Some brands may taste like regular water, while others may have a little earthy flavour.
Black alkaline water is believed to provide better hydration as compared to normal water. This was established in a small study with 36 soccer players as participants. Study results revealed that alkaline water resulted in better hydration when players consumed it after a strenuous round of soccer.
The reason black water hydrates the body better than regular water is attributed to the size of its molecules. Black water molecules are smaller in size and are easily absorbed in body cells. Plus, the mineral content of the drink helps replenish lost electrolytes, making the person feel fresh and rejuvenated.
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Bone loss is a serious concern. When bone mineral density and bone mass decrease, the chances of bone-related issues like osteoporosis increase. Osteoporosis weakens your bones and makes them brittle, increasing the risk of fractures.
As black water is infused with several health-promoting minerals, including calcium, it prevents bone resorption, i.e., the destruction of bone tissue. This ensures healthy bone density and reduces the risk of bone diseases.
The presence of fulvic acid is the reason why black water drink has anti-ageing properties. Fulvic acid is a powerful antioxidant. Its antioxidant properties fight against free radicals responsible for ageing. Too many free radicals can also increase oxidative stress in the body and cause other health issues.
Consuming black water can slow down the process of ageing and help people enjoy youthful skin for an extended period. What’s more? Drinking it regularly can reduce the formation of acne on acne-prone skin and make way for smooth and clear skin.
Besides better hydration, another reason why black water is popular among athletes and fitness enthusiasts is its ability to boost metabolism. Having a good metabolism means your body loses weight faster as it can burn fat more effectively.
So, when you burn more calories during activity and while at rest, you are in a better position to maintain weight or facilitate weight loss (if that’s what you’re looking for).
Consuming black water regularly provides essential minerals required for different body functions. It also helps in the absorption of vital nutrients from the food you eat and encourages the growth of good bacteria in the gut. This can boost your immune function and prevent you from falling sick every now and then.
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Acidity, or acid reflux, is a common gastric issue and is mainly caused by overeating or consuming spicy foods. It presents itself as a pain or burning sensation in and around the lower chest area. Acidity is caused when your body secretes excess acid in the stomach, which then flows back to the oesophagus (food pipe).
Black water, due to its alkaline nature, can be a great acidity reliever. Its high pH can neutralise the excess acid in the stomach and provide relief from pain and discomfort.
Alkaline black water can be a promising addition to the diet regimen of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus. A study found that consuming alkaline water with a pH of 9.5 was effective in lowering blood sugar levels in diabetic individuals. However, this was a short-term study, and there is still a need for extensive long-term research to confirm its relevance.
So, while black water can serve as an adjuvant therapy for regulating blood sugar levels, one must not deviate from consuming regular diabetes medication to maintain a healthy life. And don’t forget to seek your doctor’s advice before consuming any strength of alkaline water.
Although little evidence is available, it is believed that black alkaline water might be effective in lowering a person’s risk of developing heart disease. Minerals found in the drink, such as calcium and magnesium, may support the heart and reduce the overall risk for a person.
Furthermore, the high level of antioxidants in the drink can curb the damaging effects of oxidative stress and save the body from developing chronic conditions like cardiovascular diseases and cancer.
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Black water drink is gaining popularity owing to its health benefits, but that does not mean it doesn’t have any side effects. Reported side effects of black water include:
Most often, these side effects are a result of overconsumption of black water. Remember, excess consumption of anything may not translate to better health results. Therefore, if you wish to add this drink to your routine, make sure you have it in moderation.
Side effects like nausea and vomiting can occur for those who are not used to the drink. So, go slow when you first try it. Take a few sips to determine if you like it. And build up the consumption gradually.
Also, it won’t hurt to make a quick call to your healthcare provider to ask if black water is meant for you. This especially goes for people with underlying medical conditions and those who take medications regularly.
Scientific studies related to black water and its benefits are still preliminary. Initial studies have shown promise regarding its health benefits, but the results are very limited and not enough to derive solid conclusions.
While you may still choose to drink a glass of black water, as it is generally safe for consumption, its long-term effects are yet to be studied. We still need extensive human studies to determine if this drink can deliver the health benefits it is believed to possess.
Coming to black water cost, the price of the drink can vary from one brand to another. Some brands are priced lower compared to premium brands that target niche customers. To give you an idea, a bottle of black water 1 litre price can range between ₹100–350 or higher.
Initially, India had only one brand named Evocus manufacturing and selling this product. But off late, a few other brands like Darkk, Vaidya Rishi, and Booster have come up and are selling their products at varied price points.
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When compared to regular bottled water, black water is indeed costly. You can easily buy a bottle of plain water for around ₹20–40, but the same quantity of black water can cost around ₹100–350. Now, that’s a lot of price difference. But here are the reasons behind the elevated price of this drink:
1. Black water is obtained from exclusive natural resources. The degree of exploration and the need for special infrastructure raise production costs, thereby increasing its selling price.
2. Purification and treatment of sourced water ensure black water is enriched with all the claimed nutrients, further adding to the costs.
3. Expenditure on branding and marketing of the product is also taken into consideration when determining the selling price of the product.
4. The novelty of the drink is also a factor in black water’s high price point. Often, consumers are willing to pay a premium price to try novel products that look promising.
In the current Indian scenario, due to its high price point, black water is mainly popular among the elite class, like Bollywood celebs, cricketers, and the like. But with more brands budding in this sector, there will hopefully be a time when black water will be available at more affordable prices.
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Black water is a new trend in the health and fitness arena. You can often see celebrities carrying a bottle of black water with them on a hot, sunny day and fitness enthusiasts sipping on black water on their way home after a gym session. Most of them have turned to black water because of its purported benefits.
While there is no harm in going with the latest trends, you must note that these benefits are not backed by solid scientific evidence. So, the best bet would be to consult a doctor before buying yourself a bottle of black water, just to be sure. And if you get a “yes,” feel free to enjoy the drink in moderate quantities and enjoy its benefits for your health.
There is no recommended amount for how much black water one must consume in a day. However, bear in mind that black water must not replace your water intake entirely. You still need normal water for your body.
So, try using black water as a supplement to maintain hydration. 1 litre a day may be more than sufficient for many people. Talk to your provider to know how much black water intake is best for you.
Black water is safe to drink, and most people can have it without a problem. However, some people may experience side effects like nausea, vomiting, and more.
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Black water has become so popular that you can now buy it from grocery stores, wellness outlets, and online websites like Amazon and Flipkart.
People with impaired kidney function or kidney disease must not consume black alkaline water on their own and must do so only under medical supervision.
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Disclaimer: The content of this article is compiled information from generic and public sources. It is in no way a substitute, suggestion, or advice for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. Beato App does not claim responsibility for this information.
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