Mineral water is water that contains a high concentration of minerals and other dissolved substances. It is often used as a dietary supplement or as a therapeutic agent. The most common minerals found in mineral water include calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and chloride. These minerals can have a variety of health benefits, including heart benefits, digestions benefits, blood pressure benefits, constipation benefits, and bone related benefits, among others.
1. Heart Benefits of Mineral Water
Mineral water is water that contains a high concentration of minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These minerals are essential for many bodily functions, including maintaining a healthy heart. The calcium in mineral water can help to prevent heart disease by reducing the levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol in the blood and by keeping blood vessels healthy and free from blockages. Magnesium helps to keep blood pressure under control and also reduces the risk of heart disease. Potassium helps to keep the heart muscle healthy and reduces the risk of stroke. Drinking mineral water is a great way to get your daily recommended intake of these important minerals. It is also a refreshing and healthy alternative to sugary soft drinks and juices.
2. Digestion Benefits of Mineral Water
Mineral water can have a number of benefits for digestion. First, it can help to increase the amount of water in the digestive tract, which can help to soften stool and make it easier to pass. Additionally, the minerals in mineral water can help to neutralize stomach acid, which can help to reduce the symptoms of heartburn and indigestion. Finally, the minerals in mineral water can help to promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria, which can improve overall digestive health.
3. Blood Pressure Benefits of Mineral Water
Mineral water can help to lower blood pressure by reducing the amount of sodium in the blood.
4. Constipation Related Benefits of Mineral Water
The high concentration of minerals in mineral water can help to relieve constipation by drawing water into the intestines and softening the stool.
5. Bone Related Health Benefits of Mineral Water
Mineral water can help to maintain bone density and prevent osteoporosis.
6. Kidney Stone Benefits
The high concentration of minerals in mineral water can help to prevent kidney stones from forming.
7. Skin Health
Mineral water can help to keep the skin hydrated and promote healing.
8. Cancer Health
Mineral water can help to protect against cancer by reducing the formation of free radicals.
9. Diabetes Prevention
Mineral water can help to regulate blood sugar levels and prevent the development of diabetes.
10. Weight Loss
Mineral water can help to promote weight loss by increasing the body’s metabolism.
What Are the Possible Risks of Drinking Mineral Water?
1. Water Intoxication
Water intoxication, also called water poisoning, is a potentially fatal disturbance in brain functions that results when the normal balance of electrolytes in the body is pushed outside safe limits by overhydration. The best way to prevent water intoxication is to drink only when you are thirsty and to avoid drinking large amounts of water all at once. If you are participating in an endurance event, make sure to drink sports drinks that contain electrolytes, such as sodium, to help keep your sodium levels balanced.
2. GERD
GERD is a condition in which the contents of the stomach reflux back up into the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. It is thought that the high levels of minerals and/or sodium in mineral water may contribute to GERD symptoms by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which can allow stomach acids to flow back up into the esophagus. Additionally, the carbonation in mineral water may also contribute to GERD symptoms.
3. Microplastic Effects
Microplastics are very small pieces of plastic that have been observed in all types of drinking water and bottled water, including mineral water. Microplastics can be harmful to human health.
Some of the ways that microplastics can affect health are by: Microplastics can get lodged in the intestines and cause blockages, leaching chemicals into the body, causing inflammation, affecting the immune system, and disrupting hormones.
Which Minerals in Mineral Water Are More Important?
Minerals that are commonly found in mineral water include calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium. These minerals are important for many different functions in the body, so it is up to the individual to decide which ones are most important to them.
Are The Benefits of Carbonated Mineral Water Different from Still Mineral Water?
There is no difference in the benefits of carbonated and still mineral water. Both are equally beneficial in terms of providing essential minerals and hydration.
What Are the Other Water Types That Benefit Health?
There are many other water types that benefit health. Some of these include:
- Alkaline water: This type of water has a higher pH level than regular tap water. It can help neutralize acid in your body and improve your overall health.
- Distilled water: This water has been purified through a distillation process. It is free of impurities and can be helpful for people with certain health conditions.
- Filtered water: This water has been filtered to remove impurities. It is a good option for people who want to improve their water quality but do not want to pay for bottled water.