Mayoclinic.com has a Q&A section under the Healthy Living tab that is answered by their Experts.  Clinical Nutritionist Kathlerine Zeratsky R.D., L.D. answered the following question on the Mayo Clinic site:

Question:  Is Alkaline Water Better than Plain Water?

Answer:  For most people, plain water is best.

Alkaline water has a higher pH level than does tap water. Some proponents say that alkaline water can neutralize acid in your bloodstream, boost your energy level and metabolism, and help your body absorb nutrients more effectively. Others say that alkaline water can help you resist disease and slow the aging process. However, researchers haven’t verified these claims.

Some research does suggest that alkaline water may slow bone loss, but further study is needed to determine if the positive effects can be maintained over the long term or influence bone mineral density overall.

Rob’s thoughts:  I don’t think Kathlerine knows anything about alkaline ionized water other than what she looked up online.  She doesn’t tell us where she got her information about the effects of alkaline water on bone loss, which means that her answer leaves a lot to be desired.  At least she does say that more research needs to be done as formal research has yet to verify the claims.  I wonder what the stance of the Mayo Clinic is on alkaline water, if they have one?