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It is not a cure for GERD
No water, regardless of pH, can cure a structural or chronic digestive condition.
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★ Science-Based Guide
Alkaline water and acid reflux: what the research says.
An evidence-based look at what peer-reviewed science tells us about alkaline water and pepsin in the laboratory — including the boundaries of what the research actually shows.
★ Medical disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet or treatment plan.
★ 01 · The Condition
Understanding acid reflux.
Acid reflux, clinically known as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus. This backwash can irritate the lining, causing the burning sensation commonly known as heartburn.
Common symptoms
Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn), regurgitation of food or sour liquid, difficulty swallowing, a sensation of a lump in the throat. Some people also experience chronic cough, hoarseness, or breathing changes.
Standard treatments
Conventional management typically includes lifestyle modifications (dietary changes, weight management, elevating the head of the bed during sleep), over-the-counter antacids and H2 receptor blockers, and prescription medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Always work with your doctor on a treatment plan.
The role of pepsin
A key factor in reflux-related tissue damage is an enzyme called pepsin. Pepsin is a digestive enzyme produced in the stomach that breaks down proteins. When stomach contents reflux into the oesophagus and throat, pepsin can adhere to the tissue and cause irritation. This is where pH becomes interesting.
★ 02 · The Research
What the research says — peer-reviewed.
The most widely cited study on this topic was conducted by Dr Jamie A. Koufman and Dr Nikki Johnston, published in 2012 in the Annals of Otology, Rhinology & Laryngology — a peer-reviewed medical journal.
★ Peer-Reviewed · 2012
Koufman & Johnston (2012)
"Unlike conventional drinking water, pH 8.8 alkaline water instantly denatures pepsin, rendering it permanently inactive. In addition, it has good acid-buffering capacity."
The study examined the effect of alkaline water with a pH of 8.8 on pepsin activity in laboratory conditions. Researchers found that water at this pH level irreversibly denatured human pepsin — it became permanently inactive. They also found alkaline water demonstrated good acid-buffering capacity.
Important context
It's essential to understand the scope of these findings. This was an in vitro study — experiments conducted in a laboratory setting rather than inside the human body. The researchers described a laboratory mechanism involving pepsin and pH. Whether that translates into anything a person would notice has not been established in clinical trials.
★ 03 · The Mechanism
How pH levels may matter.
Pepsin is most active at highly acidic pH levels (around pH 2). As pH increases (becomes less acidic), pepsin activity decreases. At mildly elevated pH levels, pepsin is merely inactivated temporarily. At pH 8.8 and above, the study showed pepsin is permanently denatured.
★ pH Scale Reference
pH 2Stomach acid — pepsin most active
pH 6.5–7.5Regular tap / bottled water
pH 8.8Study threshold — irreversible pepsin denaturation
pH 10Designer Water — above the study threshold
★ Acid-buffering capacity
Beyond pepsin denaturation, the study noted alkaline water demonstrated good acid-buffering capacity. Buffering capacity is a measured property of the water in the test tube. The study did not measure what happens in the oesophagus.
★ 04 · The Limits
What alkaline water won't do.
Transparency matters. While the research is promising, it's important to be clear about the boundaries of what alkaline water can and cannot do.
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It does not replace medication
If your doctor has prescribed PPIs, H2 blockers or other treatments, do not stop them on your own.
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It is not a diagnostic tool
Reflux symptoms can mimic other conditions. Get properly diagnosed.
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It won't change your blood pH
Your body maintains blood pH on its own. The mechanism here is local — in the oesophagus, not systemic.
★ The honest position
The evidence is a laboratory finding about pepsin and pH. It is not evidence that drinking alkaline water changes reflux, and we do not present it that way. Diet, lifestyle and medical care are matters for you and your doctor.
★ 05 · Designer Water
Why people choose Designer Water.
Designer Water is a South African premium alkaline water with a stable pH of 10 — exceeding the pH 8.8 threshold examined in the Koufman & Johnston study. Produced in Midrand, Gauteng. Every batch is tested under SANBWA and ISO 22000 protocols.
Designer Water contains added minerals including calcium, magnesium and potassium. Every batch is tested to ensure consistent pH and mineral content, so you know exactly what you're drinking with every bottle. Available in 330ml, 500ml, 750ml, 1L, 5L and 10L.
★ FAQ
Acid reflux + alkaline water — your questions.
Will alkaline water cure my acid reflux?
No. Alkaline water is not a cure for acid reflux or GERD. The only research we cite is a laboratory study on pepsin. It does not show that alkaline water changes reflux, and it does not replace medication or medical care.
Can I drink alkaline water with my reflux medication?
In most cases yes, but always check with your doctor or pharmacist first — especially if you take PPIs, H2 blockers or other prescribed treatments. Your prescribing physician knows your individual situation.
What pH is needed to denature pepsin?
The Koufman & Johnston study found that water at pH 8.8 irreversibly denatured human pepsin in laboratory conditions. Designer Water at pH 10 exceeds this threshold.
Does drinking Designer Water do anything for reflux?
We do not claim it does. The Koufman & Johnston study measured pepsin in a test tube, not symptoms in people. If you have reflux symptoms, see a healthcare professional.
Is the research conclusive?
No. The Koufman & Johnston study is the most cited paper on this topic, but it was a laboratory study (in vitro). Larger clinical trials in real-world conditions are still needed to confirm the findings translate fully to humans.
Can I use alkaline water as my only water?
Yes. Alkaline water at pH 8-10 is safe to drink as your primary water source for healthy adults. If you have kidney disease or specific medical conditions, consult your doctor.
★ Important Disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. The research cited describes laboratory findings that have not been confirmed through large-scale clinical trials in humans. Individual results may vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised guidance.
★ pH 10 — Above the study threshold
Try the water at pH 10.
Designer Water pH10 — alkaline at pH 10+, mineralised, hydrogen-infused. Bottled in Midrand under SANBWA, ISO 22000 and four other independent certifications.