Mineral Water Benefits

Minerals are added by in-ground mineral sources at water holes or natural springs.

Mineral water differs from tap water in that it typically contains minerals that affect taste and increase nutritional value. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, mineral water is any natural water that contains at least 250 parts per million total dissolved solids and is obtained at one or more bore holes or springs originating from a preserved underground water source. Mineral water can be flat or effervescent (sparkling).

Mineral Content

Mineral water can contain magnesium, chloride, bicarbonates, sulfate, silica and iron. These minerals help your body in a number of ways, including balancing electrolytes. Electrolytes help your body produce antibacterial and anti-fungal substances vital to preventing illness, swelling and chronic pain.

Minerals are more easily absorbed from water than from solid foods, which means that your body can receive the benefits of minerals more efficiently. For example, mineral water has been credited with increasing calcium absorption, which helps strengthen bone density. For people with lactose intolerance, dairy allergies or osteoporosis, mineral water can be an important source of calcium.

Magnesium

A natural stress reducer, magnesium targets your muscles and bones to strengthen your immune system. Magnesium can also help control blood pressure by relieving anxiety and stress.

Sulfate, Silica and Sodium

These minerals are natural anti-toxins that make teeth and bones stronger. Sodium balances water in the body to ensure maximum hydration.

Bicarbonates, Chloride and Iron

These minerals are credited with aiding digestion by regulating acids in the stomach and large and small intestines. Especially helpful for people who suffer from anemia, iron helps deliver oxygen throughout the bloodstream.

Alternative Sources for Mineral Water

Artificial water filtration systems can strip water of natural mineral content. Mineral revitalization water-purification systems use natural stones to put minerals back into water for maximum health benefits. These systems can be pricey, however.

Mineral Baths

Mineral baths or hot springs are also used to induce healthy results such as increased blood circulation, energy and vitality. In Europe and Japan, hot springs are particularly popular locations for treatment of fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis and other joint and digestive issues.

Additional Information

Effervescent versions of mineral water are also available and contain the same mineral content as flat options.

The more minerals found in water, the "harder" it is said to be. Water with fewer minerals is classified as "soft."

References

• Benefits of Mineral Water
• Distilled Water Versus Mineral, Carbon Filtered, and Reverse Osmosis Water
• Bottled Water: Better Than the Tap?

Resources

• U.S. Food and Drug Administration