Elevating Alkalinity: Can I Add Himalayan or Celtic Sea Salt to My Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water?

Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems are popular water purification techniques due to their effectiveness in removing impurities, but there is a common question among users: can we enhance the alkalinity of our RO drinking water by adding salts such as Himalayan or Celtic sea salt? This article aims to clarify the misconceptions and provide accurate information on this topic.

Understanding Alkalinity and Salt Additions

Alkalinity in water is an important measure of the water's buffering capacity, meaning its ability to resist changes in acidity. It is typically associated with the concentration of carbonates, bicarbonates, and hydroxides in the water. Most reverse osmosis systems are designed to purify water, which often removes not only contaminants but also naturally occurring minerals, including those responsible for alkalinity.

The Role of Baking Soda in Increasing Alkalinity

Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a common and effective way to increase the alkalinity of water. Baking soda has a pH of approximately 8.3, making it slightly basic. When added to water, it dissociates into sodium and bicarbonate ions, which can raise the pH and resulting alkalinity of the water. However, it's important to note that adding baking soda is a direct method to increase the alkalinity, not by introducing minerals through salts like Himalayan or Celtic sea salt.

Why Adding Salts Does Not Increase Alkalinity

Adding salts such as Himalayan or Celtic sea salt to water does not inherently increase the water's alkalinity. These salts primarily introduce sodium and chloride ions, which do not significantly contribute to the water's alkalinity. The minerals in these salts are indeed beneficial for health, but this route is not an efficient method to increase water alkalinity. Here are a few reasons why:

Salinity vs. Alkalinity: Salinity refers to the total amount of dissolved salts in water, while alkalinity is the water's capacity to neutralize acids. While salt can increase salinity, it does not directly contribute to alkalinity. Chemical Composition: The minerals in salts like Himalayan or Celtic sea salt, such as sodium and chloride, are not the same as the minerals (such as bicarbonates or carbonates) that contribute to alkalinity. Physical Dissolution: Dissolving salts in water does not change the pH or alkaline buffering capacity of the water.

Methods to Properly Increase Alkalinity in RO Water

If you are looking to increase the alkalinity of your RO water, there are several effective methods:

Add Baking Soda: As mentioned earlier, adding baking soda to RO water can significantly boost its alkalinity. It is recommended to add a small amount at a time and taste or test the water to ensure the desired level of alkalinity is achieved. Use Alkaline-Centric Water Filters: There are specialized water filters designed with particular minerals that can help to increase the alkalinity of water. These filters are typically equipped with calcium, magnesium, and other minerals that help raise the pH. Reverse Osmosis Water Treatment: Some water treatment systems also include remineralization steps to increase alkalinity after the RO process. This can be achieved through the addition of specific minerals through a remineralization cartridge or additive.

Conclusion

In summary, while adding Himalayan or Celtic sea salt to your reverse osmosis drinking water does not increase its alkalinity, there are effective methods to achieve the desired level of alkalinity. Adding baking soda, using specialized water filters, or employing specific remineralization techniques are all viable options for elevating the alkalinity of your RO water. Ensuring your water is not only purified but also balanced in terms of pH and alkalinity is crucial for optimizing its health benefits.