Hello, I’m Dr. Sandip Mathur, a gastroenterologist in Abilene, Texas.

I’m often asked about alkaline water and smart water. Are they helpful? Are they beneficial? Are we missing out by not drinking these waters?

The simple answer: NO

The human body adjusts pH very well itself. You don’t need to drink alkaline water. Also, drinking smart water that has minerals added to it may taste better but there’s no specific advantage.

There may even be some harm in patients with kidney diseases, pregnant women and in patients with kidney stones. 

Drink water, or the simple electrolyte solution that I explained in my last blog.

What about the signs of dehydration? 

Look for these: increased thirst (your body is telling you!), dryness of the mouth, feeling light headed when you suddenly get up. But these can be vague symptoms. How can you be sure?

Check your blood pressure at the elbow (NOT the wrist or finger) while sitting and after standing. Normally the upper number should go up by 10 -20, but if it does not and even drops then you are likely to be dehydrated.

What about vitamin water? I will talk about that next time. Stay tuned!

Remember, these are general medical guidelines, you must always check with your own PCP.