Is Mineral Water Good For You? Know The Health Impacts Of Mineral Water

Have you ever teased your NRI friend for having mineral water when he is visiting India, or are you someone who sticks with mineral water every time you step out? Mineral water is the elegant relative of the simple H2O or water. It tastes crisp and has health advantages that make it fancy but healthy. It is also sold in bottles as an alternative to tap water. 

However, what distinguishes mineral water from others is that it is the perfect hydration solution. It is rich in essential minerals like potassium, magnesium and calcium that can satisfy your thirst and give your body an extra kick. However, is mineral water extra ordinarily healthy, or is this all just hype?

It is best to choose mineral water with a balanced mineral content and include it in a varied diet. Keep reading to know if mineral water is healthy and whether you can have it daily.

Table Of Contents

1. How Healthy Is Mineral Water?

2. Is It Okay To Drink Mineral Water Every Day?

3. Dietitian’s Recommendation

4. The Final Say

5. FAQs

6. References

How Healthy Is Mineral Water?

Mineral water can be a beneficial beverage choice for several scientific reasons-

1. Rich Mineral Content

Essential minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and potassium, can be found naturally in mineral water. These minerals are leached from rocks as water flows through underground aquifers. Calcium is crucial for bone health, magnesium aids muscle and energy production, and potassium helps maintain electrolyte balance and proper cell function.

2. Optimal Hydration

Mineral water, like plain water, is essential for proper hydration. Adequate hydration is vital for numerous physiological processes, including nutrient transport, waste removal, temperature regulation, and joint lubrication.

3. Digestive Health Benefits

Mineral water's magnesium content can support digestive health by promoting bowel regularity and preventing constipation. Magnesium also acts as a natural laxative by relaxing intestinal muscles and attracting water into the intestines.

4. Cardiovascular Support

Potassium and magnesium in mineral water contribute to cardiovascular health. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure by counteracting sodium's effects, while magnesium supports heart muscle function and helps maintain a regular heartbeat.

Also Read- Top 10 Heart Healthy Foods To Include In Your Cardiovascular Diet Plan

5. Calorie-Free Option

Since mineral water usually contains no calories, it's an excellent choice for someone trying to control their weight or cut back on calories without sacrificing vital mineral intake or hydration. 

Is It Okay To Drink Mineral Water Every Day?

Yes, drinking mineral water daily can benefit from its nutrient content and hydration benefits. However, there are several scientific considerations to keep in mind before making it a daily habit-

1. Mineral Content Assessment

Mineral water contains varying essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Lavish intake of certain minerals, such as calcium or magnesium, can lead to health issues like kidney stones or gastrointestinal problems.

2. Sodium Levels Monitoring

Certain mineral waters contain a lot of salt, which can be dangerous for people with high blood pressure or who follow a diet low in sodium. High salt consumption results in elevated blood pressure and cardiovascular hazards. Always check the label for sodium content to ensure it aligns with your health needs.

3. Economic Considerations

While mineral water offers health benefits, it is often more expensive than tap or bottled water. Evaluate whether this cost fits your budget and consider the long-term financial impact.

4. Environmental Impact

Regularly purchasing bottled mineral water contributes to plastic waste, which has significant environmental repercussions. To mitigate this impact, opt for eco-friendly packaging brands and invest in reusable bottles.

5. Dietary Balance

It is advisable to rely on something other than mineral water for nutrient intake. While it can supplement essential minerals, it is important to maintain a diet that is well-balanced and rich in various nutrients from different food sources.

Dietitian’s Recommendation

As a dietitian, I recommend drinking mineral water because it provides essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are great for bone, muscle, and heart health. Mineral water also helps with hydration. While beneficial, mineral water should complement a balanced diet rich in various nutrients.

                                                                                      Dt. Aditi Upadhyay

The Final Say

Drinking mineral water is a good choice because it naturally contains beneficial minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which support bone, muscle, and heart health and keep you hydrated. However, it is essential to pick a brand with the proper mineral and sodium levels for your needs and consider the cost and environmental impact of using bottled water daily. 

FAQs

1.  What is the healthiest water to drink?

Natural, clean, filtered mineral water is often recommended when choosing the healthiest water. While some individuals may view alkaline water as the optimal choice, limited scientific evidence supports its superiority. Therefore, it is wise to prioritise natural, filtered mineral water for hydration and overall well-being.

2. Is mineral water better than normal water?

There is no concrete proof that natural mineral water is healthier than other kinds of water, but some people might prefer to drink it for its flavour or to meet their recommended daily dose of minerals. 

References

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5318167/
• https://consumeraffairs.nic.in/sites/default/files/file-uploads/ctocpas/Drinking%20water.pdf

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