South African water. Made for every day.Find your collection point
★ Honest, Balanced Guide

Alkaline water side effects: what you actually need to know.

A balanced look at the small number of situations where caution is warranted, and what we don't claim alkaline water does.

★ The quick answer

Alkaline water is drinking water with a higher pH. That does not establish that it is better for everyone or free of risk. Your medical history, the water’s composition and how much you drink matter. It is not a treatment for disease.

★ Key Context

Separate product facts from health claims.

A pH value describes acidity or alkalinity. It does not prove a health benefit or establish how an individual will respond. We do not have evidence for a predictable adjustment period when changing drinking water.

★ Why we're listing them

This guide explains the limits of our claims and when to ask a healthcare professional. It does not assign invented frequencies to symptoms or suggest that you should ignore them.

★ Reported Side Effects

The honest breakdown.

Each reported side effect, how common, who's affected, and what to do if it happens.

1

Symptoms after changing water

Do not assume an adjustment

Headaches, nausea or changes in bowel habits should not be dismissed as a normal response to alkaline water. We cannot establish their cause from when they occur.

If symptoms persist or concern you, seek advice from a healthcare professional. Do not increase intake to “push through” symptoms.

2

Digestion and reflux

Evidence has limits

Laboratory findings and small studies do not establish that this bottled water treats reflux or other digestive conditions.

Follow your clinician’s treatment advice. Drinking water does not replace prescribed care.

3

Medication and restricted diets

Individual guidance

If you take medication or have a prescribed fluid or mineral restriction, ask your clinician or pharmacist whether this water fits your instructions.

Use the bottle’s mineral information when discussing your choice. We do not provide medication-specific advice.

4

Kidney conditions

Check before switching

Mayo Clinic notes safety concerns with high-pH water, including elevated blood potassium, particularly in people with kidney disease. Its guidance highlights water above pH 9.8.

If you have kidney disease, discuss high-pH water with your treating clinician before making it your usual drinking water.

5

How much water to drink

Needs vary

A single daily volume is not right for everyone. Activity, conditions and individual medical instructions affect fluid needs.

Do not force large amounts to chase a claimed benefit. Follow any fluid restrictions given by your healthcare team.

★ What We Don't Claim

Things alkaline water won't do.

Honesty cuts both ways. Here's what alkaline water is not.

★ Not a medicine, not a cure

Alkaline water is mineralised water at a higher pH. It's not a treatment for any disease. It won't reverse chronic conditions, won't change your blood pH (your body manages that on its own), and won't replace medication. We don't claim otherwise.

★ Not a substitute for hydration habits

Choose drinking water for its product characteristics and your preferences. A higher pH is not evidence that you need less water or that it replaces an appropriate hydration routine.

★ Not all alkaline water is equal

Read the label for product identity and mineral information. Our quality page explains the production standards behind Designer Water.

Reference: Mayo Clinic: alkaline water, evidence and safety concerns. This is general information, not a personal medical assessment.

★ Important disclaimer

This page provides general wellness information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personal recommendations, particularly if you have a pre-existing condition or take prescription medication. Individual results may vary.

★ Informed choice ★

Know what is in your bottle.

See our product range, bottle sizes and quality information. Choose the water that fits your preferences and any advice from your healthcare professional.