This striking black packaged drink, often seen in the high-priced aisle in supermarkets, was recently spotted in a Netflix series. Flaunted by several Bollywood stars, The Ba***ds of Bollywood star Sahher Bambba was seen sipping black alkaline water by the beachside. As viewers hail Aryan Khan’s directorial debut, health-enthusiasts are still divided whether or not to sip on this hot trend from Bollywood.
What is black alkaline water?
Loaded with fulvic acid, that’s where this mineral drink gets its colour. This purified water also has humic minerals which increase its pH level, hence its name “alkaline”. Marketed as a premium health drink, black water is said to improve hydration, facilitate detoxification, and improve nutrient absorption.
But is it really healthy and advisable as an ace health drink? Financialexpress.com spoke to nutritionist Smriti Kochar, and here’s what she said. Explaining further on the presence of fulvic acid, Kochar explained that, “Fulvic acid is known to be a strong binder and binds the toxins out of the body, so it’s great if it’s used as a detoxification intervention.”
Can it be used as a workout drink?
Many Bollywood celebrities such as Gauri Khan, Malaika Arora, Manish Malhotra, and Sara Ali Khan have been spotted sipping this trendy drink. Evocus, a leading manufacturer of this alkaline drink, claimed that the high pH and minerals aid in quick absorption. They also help in reducing acidity and bring an overall balance to your gut health.
But, as a workout drink? Nutritionist Kochar does not recommend it. She told financialexpress.com that, ” having it as a workout drink or combined with any meal or supplements is counterproductive.” Pointing out the “binding” properties of fulvic acid, the expert claimed that it would end up getting excreted out of the body, giving no real benefit. “Binders taken long term can also cause a lot of constipation and drain useful fluids out of the body,” she added.
Fad or function?
Kochar further explained that functional medicine usually uses such strong binders for “gut detoxification,” but only for short-term fixes. Speaking to the Indian Express, Dr. Ajay Agarwal from Fortis Noida warned that while black alkaline water can aid in treating peptic ulcers or acidity, excessive consumption can be detrimental. He explained that sole reliance on black water can impair stomach acid, disrupt gut homeostasis, and lead to conditions like alkalosis. Ultimately, it can cause nausea, vomiting, and even muscle twitching.
Mayo Clinic also pointed out that clinical research on the medical repercussions is inconclusive. Since the pH level of this drink ranges between 8-9, liquids crossing 9.8 are a cause for concern and impair kidney function.