Exploring benefits of 'black water'

We are about to enter the month of September, but the mercury is still soaring high. In this weather, the best way to survive the scorching heat is to keep yourself hydrated. Speaking for myself, in stead of gulping sodas and other sweet beverages, I have always been reaching for bottled water. However, the ever-expanding market, offering a variety in the packaged water often confuses me. Aren't all the same – crystal clear, odourless, sparkling fluids that quenches your thirst better than any other drinks?

"Obviously yes!" – This is what everybody of you might be thinking right now except the ones who have tasted or at least heard of 'Black Water'.

Introduced by 'BLK', it is a premium alkaline water infused with pH of 8+ at the source.

But how is it better than my tap water?

"This water detoxifies your body by removing all toxins 20

times better than the normal water. It's ultra-hydrating since it gets absorbed at a higher rate than the regular water due to its addition of electrolytes and minerals. Also, it is rich in dissolved oxygen, which is considered to be the fuel for metabolism," says Tapasya Mundhra, Nutritionist.

Irrespective of the uncountable health benefits, I had inhibitions about trying this product initially. It's black water – won't it taste and smell like sludge or rotten eggs? But on the contrary, it tasted very much like good, old-fashioned water. (With various additional benefits).

Revealing other benefits of alkaline water, experts say that when the body environment becomes acidic, the body is forced into drawing balancing elements from the body itself. By balancing the acidity of the body, alkaline water helps restore bone health, fatigue and aid in osteoporosis. Also, it is a great cure for the hangover as it ensures the restoration of natural body balance quickly after consuming alcohol.

Talking about the idea behind bringing this product in the Indian market, Dikshit Jhanb, Director of IRIIS says, "In the last decade or so a number of international beverage brands have entered the Indian market making this sector segmented. I saw a great potential in the non- alcoholic beverage segment, especially in the packaged drinking water sector. The main reason for me to invest and bring international beverage brands to the Indian market was that there is an increased awareness in the country in general about health, wellness and at large about getting fit and leading healthier lifestyles."

He also informs about the positive response this product is receiving which is especially coming from the segment that understands the benefits of drinking alkaline water.

Considering the phenomenal feedback from the fitness and wellness industry, Tapasya Mundhara recommends this black water but at the same time feels that alkaline water is not a necessity for the human body. "I think it is not a necessity for humans — if you are taking a proper healthy diet, eating sufficient amount of fruits and vegetables, managing sleep and stress well, you don't really need any additional supplements," she informs.