Water Ionizer: Back to Chemistry Class
What is a water ionizer?
Before we can talk about water ionizers, it’s worth learning what ionization is in the first place.
Ionization: It’s the process of converting an atom or other molecules into ions by adding or removing charged particles like electrons. That’s the gist of it. And now…
The controversial water ionizer: Basically, it ionizes water, and separates it into alkaline through electrolysis.
Electrolysis uses an electric current, forcing chemicals to react to each other if they do not react to each other naturally. Electrolysis is used to separate elements from naturally occurring sources, such as water.
In short, an ionizer uses the naturally occurring electrical charges of the calcium and magnesium found in most drinking water.
There are those who argue that ionized water has the potential to benefit human health immensely. This is for a host of reasons. One important reason is for the argued antioxidant properties of ionized water. Manufacturers say that these antioxidant properties fight illness and harmful bacteria. Additionally, manufacturers maintain that ionized water is useful for detoxification, beauty-enhancement, and the slowing of the signs of aging. They argue that ionized water treats acidosis, eczema, psoriasis, rashes, high blood pressure, digestion problems, osteoporosis, arthritis, and acne.
Not surprisingly, the supporters of water ionization contend that drinking tap water can harm the human body because it contains, they say, traces of pharmaceutical drugs, and it is too acidic for the body, thereby causing an imbalance to our PH levels.
Reports from the Associated Press’s National Investigative Team concluded from research… that noticeably large amounts of pharmaceuticals are present in much of the drinking-water supplies across the United States.
Indeed, the issues are not black and white. Water ionization is a relatively new movement in water purification, and offers a new element in our relationship to the ingestion of perhaps the most important ingredient to human sustenance (water!).
But on a less serious note, if you happen to be considering installing a water ionizer in your home, you should know that many ionizer providers offer free trials because of the new and innovative nature of the field. Don’t be surprised if these trial periods are as long as two months. They certainly want you to feel comfortable with the product before you make a commitment.
Who might want to use one?
For those that believe the research supporting the beneficial properties of water ionization, a water ionizer could be a great addition to the home. Maybe you’ve tried all sorts of water purifiers and you’re still not happy. Water ionizers are not as widespread as filtration systems, but they are used for many of the same reasons. Namely, the presumption that the consumption of ionized water can produce a long list of health benefits – from sickness-treatment to illness-prevention.
The pros and cons:
As good as it all sounds according to the ionizer manufacturers and the Associated Press’s research findings, there are still many who contend that the claims in support of water ionization are not based on legitimate scientific conclusions. Water ionizers can cost hundreds of dollars. If there’s not enough recognized scientific evidence in their favor, they could be an empty – and costly – investment.
Water ionizers don’t work with any kind of water. They only have an effect on water that has minerals, like tap water. Distilled and filtered water, and water filtered by reverse osmosis are not affected by ionization.
You have to remember that the majority of support for water ionization comes from the manufacturers of ionization systems. It’s true that external groups like the Associated Press may have discovered benefits to water ionization through research. But it may be cause for suspicion that the strongest proponents of water ionization are the manufacturers of the machines. It’s wise to approach commercial things like this with a cautious disposition.
However, remember that a newer field like water ionization is probably subject to frequent changes in scientific evidence and research as more work is done. Perhaps you could do some research into water ionization to find out if there are indeed scientific findings in its favor. The findings could be recent, supported by research institutions, or even supported by governmental health agencies.
The bottom line:
If you worry about the reportedly high levels of pharmaceuticals in your tap water, treating your water with an ionizer may be right for you. Manufacturers argue that ionized water is healthier than tap water or filtered water.
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