Mineral water is the water that comes from natural springs and underground reservoirs. It is rich in mineral content and contains sodium, iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium, potassium, among other essential nutrients. Mineral water provides minerals that the body does not create itself and is a great way to boost your mineral intake. In terms of taste, mineral water has a unique yet subtle flavour of the land since it is acquired from deep within the earth. That’s why several people prefer it over other water types due to its purity and lack of chemical treatments.
According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), mineral water should ideally contain 250 PPM total dissolved solids (TDS). Further, this water should only be obtained from a well-protected underground source. Additionally, the FDA prohibits producers from adding minerals to their products. The findings of a research study highlight the numerous health benefits of drinking mineral-rich water. According to the findings, chloride mineral water has excellent properties for improving bowel function. Calcic mineral water is recognized as vital for skeletal and non-skeletal health.
What is Mineral Water made of?
Mineral water is water made of dissolved minerals and gasses. Natural mineral water typically contains nutrients, such as calcium carbonate, potassium, sodium sulfate, and magnesium sulfate. It may also include carbon dioxide or hydrogen sulfide gasses. It is water sourced directly from a natural and protected underground water source. It must contain the minimum proportion of minerals and trace elements, as identified by the FDA. Keep in mind; manufacturers aren’t permitted to add additional minerals to the water during the creation process.
Interestingly, it is also possible to create mineral water artificially, by adding salts to distilled water or by aerating it with CO2. Therefore, mineral water may be still (non-carbonated) or sparkling water.
In summary, mineral water contains the following components:
- Nutrients like Calcium carbonate, potassium, sodium slfate and magnesium sulfate
- Carbond dioxide and hyrdogen sulfide gases
- Mineral and trace elements
Advantages of Mineral Water
Mineral water has several health perks due to carbonation and high mineral content. The main health benefits of drinking mineral water are listed below:
1. Improves heart health
Mineral water helps reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and increases good cholesterol (HDL). There are research findings substantiating this claim. The researchers found that sodium-rich carbonated mineral water plays a crucial role in lowering LDL levels by 6.8% in postmenopausal women. Additionally, magnesium-rich mineral water is also significantly inversely linked with coronary heart disease mortality.
High cholesterol levels have been associated with an elevated risk of heart diseases and other illnesses. Therefore, consuming mineral water keeps your heart health in check and helps it function effectively.
2. Lowers blood pressure
Mineral water lowers blood pressure and thus helps to have regular blood pressured. Individuals having lower levels of magnesium experience higher blood pressure and irregular heartbeats. They are also at a higher risk of congestive heart failure. Since mineral water is rich in magnesium content, it helps regulate blood pressure in individuals with borderline hypertension. Ryland and Arnaud (2004) concluded that mineral-rich water may decrease blood pressure in people with lower urinary excretion of magnesium and calcium. Therefore, it is evident that minerals taken in water are highly significant for individuals prone to hypertension due to mineral deficiency.
Uncontrolled higher blood pressure levels raise the risks of cardiovascular diseases and strokes. It may also damage arteries leading to heart and kidney damage. Making lifestyle changes, such as regular exercising and regulating magnesium levels can make a huge difference in your overall health.
3. Increases bone strength
Increased bone strength is another benefit of drinking mineral water. A recent study found that consuming mineral water, containing high calcium amounts, can enhance the body’s calcium levels. Calcium and magnesium together support bone strength and bone density. When the bone tissue breaks down, new bone deposits and takes its place. The body tends to deposit bones faster in adolescence; but after the age of 20, bone formation slows down. It may lead to weak and brittle bones. One way to prevent bone loss is through the consumption of diets rich in calcium. Magnesiac mineral water may be potent in obstetric-gynecologic pathologies, such as pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) and postmenopausal osteoporosis.
4. Mineral water benefits for skin
Mineral water improves overall skin health. Thanks to nutrients like zinc, copper, and magnesium in the mineral water, the skin stays well-hydrated and nourished. It also helps keep dryness at bay. For example, zinc in mineral water contains anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is particularly great for treating eczema. Copper, on the other hand, regulates collagen and stabilizes skin proteins. Magnesium keeps the skin looking and feeling healthy.
So, is mineral water good for you? Yes! Mineral water contains numerous skin-benefiting minerals, which helps improve the skin’s appearance and texture. It increases moisture and delays the appearance of wrinkles.
5. Better digestive health
As magnesium contains water-binding molecules, it is effective in retaining moisture and helps draw water to the intestines. It in turn improves stool consistency and is effective in treating constipation. Therefore, we highly recommend mineral water for people suffering from indigestion and constipation. Its magnesium sulfate and sodium sulfate contents relax intestinal muscles and improve gallbladder function. It is also an effective fat-metabolizer that burns fat layers in the body.
6. Increases magnesium intake
Most people consume less magnesium than recommended, which may result in symptoms, such as:
- Muscular cramps
- Nausea and vomiting
- Irregular heartbeat
- Fatigue
- Numbness
In short, if you’re facing magnesium deficiency, switching to mineral water is a great idea!
Mineral water is an excellent source of magnesium. This essential nutrient plays a vital role in the regulation of blood pressure, nerve functioning, and glucose levels. It also enhances insulin hormone’s sensitivity, balances blood sugar, and reduces sweet cravings!
Disadvantages of Mineral Water
Although mineral water is generally safe for consumption, there are few minor drawbacks as well. Some of the side effects of drinking mineral water is listed below:
- Most manufacturers sell mineral water in plastic bottles. These contain a toxin called BPA, which interferes with regular hormonal function causing infertility. But, the microplastins in bottled water do not pose a major safety risk.
- Consuming excessive carbonated water may corrode the tooth enamel as it is slightly acidic. Additionally, carbonated water may upset your stomach and cause bloating.
- Individuals with poor kidney health should restrict their mineral water intake due to the higher levels of salt it contains.
- Another significant drawback is the threat plastic containers pose to the environment. Landfills are overflowing with plastic bottles. Switching to glass containers also won’t be easy as they consume excessive raw materials and consuming plenty of energy.
Final Words
Mineral water possesses several health benefits for the body and skin. As the minerals in the water are ionic, they’re easier to absorb by the body. If you’re eager to increase your nutrient intake, mineral water is the best place to start. Said that, you should drink the best mineral water. Besides, although tap water contains similar minerals, tap water also contains potential health risks, due to varying levels of contamination. Therefore, mineral water may be a better choice than tap water for areas that lack water regulation. If your tap water contains harmful microbes and toxins, it’s a good idea to switch to bottled mineral water.
Besides a few minor health risks, mineral water is generally safe for consumption and a delicious way to stay healthy and hydrated! When choosing which brand to grab, you can find several environment-friendly brands, such as Evian and Golden Valley. You can also find sweet-tasting brands like Alkalen, Aquafina, or the good old Bisleri!