Mineral water has unique properties and benefits, even more than traditional bottled water or pure water with a low mineral content. It comes from reservoirs and springs and is bottled right at the source. It is naturally carbonated water that has large quantities of natural minerals and organic compounds.
At VINA, we have created a variety of delicious carbonated beverages. Read on to understand all of the benefits and drawbacks of making mineral water your go-to drink.
Drinking Water Options
We all need water to survive. It is important to stay hydrated. This makes sense when you realize around 60% of the human body’s composition is water. We should educate ourselves on the following drinking water options:
- Mineral water
- Electrolyte water
- Tap water
- Purified water
- Alkaline water
- Distilled water
Each has different benefits and drawbacks, so it’s worth knowing what you’re consuming. That said, today, we’re going to focus on mineral water.
Mineral Water Health Benefits
Mineral water is different from tap water. It has a higher mineral content because it comes from an underground water source and natural springs. It’s also naturally low in calories. Many people like natural mineral water because there are a variety of minerals naturally found in it, including:
- Iron
- Zinc
- Bicarbonate
- Calcium Carbonate
- Potassium
- Sodium Sulfate
- Magnesium Sulfate
The Federal Drug Administration has actually regulated the number of minerals required for a drink to be considered mineral water. The amount of solids dissolved in water is measured by parts per million. The FDA requires mineral water to have a minimum of 250 PPM.
Minimal processing is allowed when it comes to mineral water. For example, carbon dioxide can be added or removed. Carbon dioxide has the important function of limiting oxidation and bacteria growth. Mineral water will have a natural level of carbon dioxide because it is carbonated.
One of the most common ways to purify water is through carbon filtration. This distillation method removes chemicals that can harm people but also has the potential of removing the good minerals in the water.
Bone Health
Calcium is the most important for bone development. Many of us automatically think of dairy products as the best source of calcium, but calcium-rich mineral water can have equal levels of calcium. It can strengthen bones and prevent bone loss, and this mineral is often found in natural spring water.
Magnesium can also support bone health. Studies have found that women who intake high amounts of magnesium have denser bones.
Lower High Blood Pressure
Magnesium also plays a role in lowering blood pressure. This is important because, throughout the world, hypertension is a leading preventative cause of premature death.
Studies have found that water containing magnesium and calcium outweigh the effect of sodium on blood pressure.
Heart Health
A study done on post-menopausal women followed the impact of drinking mineral water on their cholesterol levels. The study demonstrated how drinking mineral water lowered the bad cholesterol (LDL) and increased the good cholesterol (HDL) in these women. More research is needed here, but things look promising.
Digestive Health
Minerals can improve the day-to-day digestive function of people who suffer from constipation. The magnesium found in carbonated mineral water can prevent constipation. It relaxes the muscle in the intestines, which leads to more solid and regular movements. Magnesium plays a role in the pancreas creating digestive enzymes which impact digestion.
Bicarbonate and chloride are often found in mineral water. These minerals help prevent the uncomfortable and sometimes embarrassing symptoms of constipation and bloating.
Drawbacks of Mineral Water
Like everything we consume, it is important to research both the benefits and the potential health risks of a new beverage.
Mineral water has been proven safe for the average person, but some people need to be more careful. There are also factors outside of our health to consider.
Toxic Plastic
Plastic is going out of fashion. As a society, we are learning about the negative effects of plastic on our planet. Mineral water is often packaged in plastic bottles, which can contribute to pollution.
Besides the planet, plastic bottles have a potential risk for our health. This is because it contains microplastic, which are tiny particles with potential risks.
The BPA found in plastic can even impact our hormonal functioning. BPA is released from plastic when it is kept in warm areas. Exposure to these toxins has been connected to cancer, heart issues, fertility issues, and brain development. BPA is so dangerous that many countries have banned it from being used in plastic.
Tooth Damage
So some of us might remember learning about pH balance in chemistry class. PH balance describes if something has a higher acidity or basicity level.
Mineral water has a lower pH balance than regular water, which simply means it is more acidic. This can be a problem for tooth enamel. Some studies show that carbonated water might reduce enamel hardness.
Water Regulations
Mineral water is less regulated than tap water. It is regulated in the United States but not equally throughout the states. This means we won’t know everything in the mineral water unless the manufacturers list everything on the package. Mineral water has to be tested far less often, which leaves room for contamination.
Tap water also contains many minerals. The EPA is the governing body that strictly regulates tap water. The EPA ensures that there are no microbes in the water.
Sensitive Stomach
Some people have very sensitive stomachs and do not react well to carbonation. Carbonation can cause bloating. People who have gastroesophageal reflux disease should avoid mineral water because it can exacerbate symptoms already present.
Prebiotic Soda
Prebiotic soda is a type of fizzy beverage often created with ingredients like carbonated water and fruit juice. Prebiotics act as food for healthy gut bacteria. Prebiotics promote:
- Gut health
- Immune system
- Bone health
We have designed several delicious, fun flavors at VINA. Our prebiotic sodas come in Grapefruit, Pomegranate, Lemon-Lime, Cherry, and Ginger flavors, so you’re sure to find something you’ll love. We make sure our drinks are:
- Certified organic
- Infused with brain supporting minerals
- A good source of fiber
- Infused with apple cider vinegar
Keeping It Fresh
Don’t be afraid to try a new beverage. Everyone has unique health needs and taste buds. The right drink for you is definitely out there.
Mineral water is a beverage with a great taste and health benefits. Try out VINA, and you will not be disappointed!
Sources:
Does Mineral Water Have Health Benefits? | Healthline
Is mineral water more healthful? Benefits and side effects | Medical News Today
Mineral Water: Health Benefits, Uses, Safety Information, and More | Web MD
Mineral water: Is it actually safe? | The Time of India
