With numerous bottled water options available, choosing the right one can be challenging. Each type of bottled water has unique benefits, so understanding these can help you make an informed choice.
Here we look at the healthiest bottled water options, focusing on their mineral content, safety, and overall benefits.
1. Spring Water
What It Is: Spring water comes from natural springs where it flows to the surface. It is often bottled directly from the source with minimal processing.
Health Benefits:
- Mineral Content: Spring water typically contains natural minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which support bone health and cardiovascular function.
- Purity: Because it’s sourced directly from springs, spring water is usually free from contaminants, though it’s essential to ensure the source is well-regulated.
Examples: Evian, Highland Spring
Tip: Always check the label to confirm the mineral content and ensure the water meets safety standards.
2. Mineral Water
What It Is: Mineral water comes from mineral springs and is rich in dissolved minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and sodium. It may be carbonated or still.
Health Benefits:
- Nutrient-Rich: The high mineral content supports bone health, aids digestion, and contributes to overall wellness.
- Hydration: The minerals help maintain electrolyte balance and improve hydration.
Examples: Perrier, San Pellegrino
Tip: Mineral content varies between brands, so check the label for specific information on minerals and their amounts.
3. Purified Water
What It Is: Purified water undergoes processes like reverse osmosis or distillation to remove impurities and contaminants. It starts as tap water but is extensively treated to ensure purity.
Health Benefits:
- Free of Contaminants: Purified water is stripped of most contaminants, including chlorine, heavy metals, and bacteria, making it very clean.
- Consistency: Provides a consistent quality free from environmental pollutants.
Examples: Nestlé Pure Life, Aquafina
Tip: Purified water lacks the minerals found in spring and mineral waters, which might be a consideration depending on your health needs.
4. Alkaline Water
What It Is: Alkaline water has a higher pH level (typically above 7) compared to regular water. It is marketed as being able to neutralize acid in the body.
Health Benefits:
- pH Balance: Some proponents claim it helps balance the body’s pH levels and improves hydration. However, scientific evidence supporting these benefits is limited and mixed.
- Hydration: Some studies suggest that alkaline water might enhance hydration due to its different molecular structure.
Examples: Essentia, Alkaline88
Tip: While generally safe, the benefits of alkaline water are still debated. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about pH levels affecting your health.
5. Electrolyte Water
What It Is: Electrolyte water is infused with electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium, which help maintain fluid balance and support bodily functions.
Health Benefits:
- Enhanced Hydration: Electrolytes help retain fluids and improve hydration, particularly beneficial after exercise or in hot conditions.
- Support for Physical Activity: Ideal for athletes or anyone who needs to replenish lost electrolytes.
Examples: Smartwater, Gatorade Water
Tip: Electrolyte water is most beneficial during intense physical activity. For everyday hydration, regular purified or spring water is usually sufficient.
6. Distilled Water
What It Is: Distilled water is produced by boiling water and then condensing the steam back into liquid. This process removes most contaminants and minerals.
Health Benefits:
- Purity: Extremely pure, free from dissolved minerals and contaminants.
- Medical Use: Often used in medical settings or for specific purposes requiring high purity.
Examples: Poland Spring Distilled Water, Crystal Springs
Tip: Distilled water lacks minerals and is not generally recommended for regular consumption due to the absence of beneficial minerals.
Best Water for Minerals
If you’re looking for water with a high mineral content, mineral water is your best choice. Brands like San Pellegrino and Gerolsteiner are known for their rich mineral content, which includes high levels of calcium, magnesium, and other beneficial minerals. Spring water, such as Evian, also provides a good balance of minerals, though the exact composition can vary.
Is Alkaline Water Safe?
Alkaline water is generally safe to drink. The higher pH level is not harmful, but the health benefits promoted by its advocates—such as improved pH balance and better hydration—are still under scientific review. It’s important to maintain a balanced diet and not rely solely on alkaline water for health benefits. If you have any health concerns, consult a healthcare professional.
Disclaimer
While this guide provides information on various bottled water options, it’s important to consider the environmental impact of single-use plastic bottles. Plastic waste contributes significantly to environmental pollution. Whenever possible, opt for reusable bottles and refill them with filtered or tap water to reduce your ecological footprint.
