Daily Intake Guide

How much alkaline water should you drink per day?

The short, honest answer — followed by activity ranges, a personal calculator, when to be cautious, and the science behind the recommendation.

★ Quick answer

Most healthy adults can drink alkaline water just like regular water — typically 1.5 to 3 litres per day, depending on activity, climate and body weight. Treat it as your primary drinking water and follow the same volume guidelines you'd follow for any water.

Personal Calculator

How much do you need?

A starting-point formula based on body weight. Adjust up for hot weather and intense activity.

Quick formula
Body weight (kg) × 0.033 = litres per day
Example: A 75 kg person ≈ 75 × 0.033 = 2.5 litres/day. That's roughly five 500ml bottles or two-and-a-half 1L bottles. Add 500ml–1L on hot days or training days.
By Activity Level

Daily intake by how active you are.

Most health authorities — including the South African Department of Health — recommend roughly 2 litres (8 glasses) as a baseline. Activity, climate and body size shift that up.

Activity Level
Daily Intake
Glasses (250ml)
Notes
SedentaryDesk work, minimal movement
1.5 – 2L
6 – 8
Baseline hydration for most adults.
Moderately ActiveLight exercise 3-4×/week
2 – 2.5L
8 – 10
Add 500ml on training days.
Very ActiveDaily training, gym, sport
2.5 – 3.5L
10 – 14
Replace fluid lost during sweat.
Athletes / Outdoor WorkersHeavy training or hot environment
3 – 4L+
12 – 16+
Sip throughout the day.

South Africa's climate also matters. In Highveld summers you may need 500ml–1 litre more than the ranges above. Listen to your body and drink before you feel thirsty. If your urine is pale straw-coloured and you rarely feel thirsty, you're likely well hydrated.

Pick Your Size

Match the bottle to your day.

Designer Water is available in six sizes. Here's how each fits into your daily hydration goals.

330ml

Quick top-up. One in your bag for meetings.

500ml

Everyday carry. Four hits 2L target.

750ml

Gym & workouts. Three a day for active.

1litre

Desk companion. Two-three covers a day.

5litre

Family use. Lasts a household a day.

10litre

Office & events. Best value per litre.

When to be careful

When to check with a doctor.

Alkaline water is safe for the vast majority of healthy adults, but a few situations warrant extra care.

1

Kidney conditions

If you have CKD or other kidney issues, talk to your doctor before changing your water.

2

Medications affecting electrolytes

Some prescriptions are sensitive to changes in mineral or pH balance.

3

Acid-suppressing medication

If you take antacids or PPIs, check with your prescribing physician about adding alkaline water.

4

Pregnancy

While not contraindicated, all dietary changes during pregnancy should be discussed with your provider.

★ Medical disclaimerThis page provides general wellness information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personal recommendations. Individual results vary.
FAQ

Daily intake — your questions, answered.

Can I drink only alkaline water?
Yes. Alkaline water at pH 8-10 is safe to drink as your primary water source. You can replace your regular drinking water entirely with no special precautions for healthy adults.
Can I drink too much alkaline water?
For healthy adults, drinking the standard recommended quantity (2-3 litres) is safe. Drinking dramatically more than your body needs (water intoxication) is rare but possible — usually requires consuming several litres in a very short time. Don't force-drink.
Should I drink it with meals or between?
Both work. Drinking with meals can support digestion and is safe. Drinking between meals helps maintain hydration through the day. Personal preference and routine matter most.
Is morning the best time?
A glass of water first thing in the morning helps rehydrate after a night's sleep and is a healthy habit. The exact pH matters less than simply drinking water consistently throughout the day.
What about kids?
Children can drink alkaline water as part of normal hydration. Their water requirements are lower than adults' and depend on age, weight and activity. Speak to your paediatrician if uncertain.
★ Pick the right size ★

Start hydrating smarter.

From 330ml to 10L, Designer Water pH10 has the size that fits your day. SANBWA-certified, mineralised, hydrogen-infused alkaline water. Delivered nationwide.