Water is a dynamic and fascinating gift of nature. With almost 71% of the Earth covered in water and 60% of the human body made of water, it is crucial for life. However, in the recent past several influencers, celebrities and biohackers have highlighted the importance of drinking structured water.

The phases of water

The 3 commonly known phases of water are:

1. Solid (ice)

2. Liquid (fluid)

3. Gas (vapour)

The fourth stage is called structured water (other names include – hexagonal, gel, crystalline, biological water etc.). It is structured and enhanced in a form similar to a crystal in a fluid structure. This phase of water found in our cells and tissues, varies in form when compared to drinking water. 

What is the difference: Structured vs unstructured water?

Are there health benefits to drinking structured water?

Though there isn’t sufficient evidence to suggest the exact health benefits of structured water, here are some benefits which are said to be drinking structured water:

• It may promote better hydration.
  
  
• It may help detoxify the body.
  
  
• It may as a free-radical scavenging agent.
  
  
• It may improve the functioning of the immune system.
  
  
• It may slow down ageing.
  
  
• It may reduce oxidative stress.
  
  
• It may decrease inflammation.
  
  
• It may help correct the body’s pH level.
  
  
• It may reduce hair fall and improve skin hydration.
  
  
• It may heal the body.
  

Natural sources of structured water

The natural sources of structured water are:

• Spring water – It is highly pressurised and rich in minerals. The electromagnetic field below the Earth’s crust is responsible for the nature of spring water.
  
  
• Glacial melts – When glacial ice melts, the water obtained is in structured form.
  
  

• Vortexing – The mechanism of vortexing is naturally present in water bodies. It is a powerful way of increasing the structure of water. Commercial products which help structure water are based on this mechanism of vortexing.
  
  

• Juicing – It involves extracting water from plant cells which is a form of structured water.
  
  

• Sunlight – Sun exposure helps our bodies heal and also promotes the building of structured water.
  
  

• Grounding – Walking barefoot on damp surfaces of the Earth, helps the body absorb the Earth’s energy and make structured water within the body.
  
  

• Infrared light – It helps stimulate the body’s energy production capacity and boost the performance of vital processes.
  
  

What is the life of structured water?

The structure of water may remain intact until an external force destroys it. This is because the H3O2 structure gets destructed by the addition of chemical agents, exposure to artificial high electromagnetic fields, reverse osmosis or if it is left undisturbed/stagnated for more than 7 days.

Can we make structured water at home?

Yes, if you do wish to consume structured water, it can be made at home easily by following these methods:

1. Using commercial devices which use vortexing technology to make water structured.

2. Exposing water to sunlight, natural heat or infrared light.

3. Storing water in a crystal water bottle.

Is unstructured water bad for health?

Normal drinking water is good for health. It is safe to consume provided the source of water is not contaminated and is clean. It is available easily and is usually free of cost/cheaper when compared to structured water. It is available in water bottles, tap water etc. Water plays an important role in the body. The hydration demands differ during different stages of life and different health conditions.  

Tips to stay hydrated

1. Reduce consumption of caffeinated drinks.

2. Drink infused water, juices, soups, bone broth etc.

3. Consume hydrating or water-rich food such as watermelons, melons, kiwi etc.

4. Avoid consuming sugary drinks and beverages.

5. Put a reminder on your phone to stay hydrated.

6. Plan an everyday water schedule which is easy to follow.

Is structured water a marketing gimmick?

Drinking structured water may be safe to drink if obtained from a reputable source. However, it is not clear whether the health claims of structured water are true since there isn’t sufficient conclusive evidence. The safety and benefits of structured water are still in it’s infancy stage. Irrespective of whether structured water is a marketing gimmick or not, it is suggested to speak to a health care provider to understand the suitability and safety of structured water.


Mayuri,
Dietetic Researcher, Simplyweight