Alkaline water has no proven benefits, expert says

LOS ANGELES -- Many believe that drinking alkaline water with increased pH levels is better for the body, but some experts do not agree.

Rayne Reitnauer believes that drinking alkaline water keeps her healthy.

"I'm using it to help balance against the more acidic drinks and foods that I'm eating and drinking," Reitnauer said.

Alkaline water contains added minerals that increase the pH levels beyond that of regular tap water.

"Most waters tend to fall in the neutral pH category, anywhere from six to seven. Alkaline water is water that has a pH of seven or higher," said Alissa Rumsey of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Alkaline water advocates believe that higher pH levels are better for the body, claiming it can do things like fight cancer and other diseases and improve metabolism.

However, Rumsey and some others do not agree.

"While there's anecdotal evidence, there's really no scientific evidence that alkaline water is going to do everything that it says it does. It's certainly not going to hurt most people, but you know, until we really have more research, I think you should just save your

money and just stick to regular tap water," Rumsey said.

Human bodies do a great job of keeping blood pH in a good range, despite what is consumed, according to Rumsey. She said that celebrities and bottled water companies are promoting alkaline water, and consumers are constantly looking for ways to boost metabolism, lose weight, and help cure diseases.