When it comes to H2O, what is the healthiest water to drink? Spring, purified, mineral, or alkaline? Let’s explore where the real concern comes into play.
Despite the array of choices, the truth is that water, in its essence, remains just that – water. Caroline West Passerrello, a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN), and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, points out that the pivotal factor is access to safe and affordable hydration.
So, What Is The Healthiest Water to Drink?
In the grand scheme of hydration, the type of water plays second fiddle to the volume consumed. West Passerrello emphasizes the crucial importance of adequate intake: for adults, around 100 ounces a day or roughly nine to 13 cups.
While some liquid intake is derived from food and other beverages, a substantial portion should stem from plain water.
Neglecting this could inadvertently lead to dehydration, characterized by a range of symptoms including fatigue, chills, constipation, dizziness, and headaches.
Dehydration’s adverse effects extend to bodily functions like temperature regulation, joint lubrication, spinal cord protection, and even the prevention of chronic illnesses.
However, if specific health objectives are in the spotlight, certain enhanced waters, like those enriched with minerals or electrolytes, can provide a minor boost.
For instance, mineral water often contains extra sodium, potassium, or calcium – elements that might align with individual dietary goals. Athletes and recovery scenarios can also benefit from electrolyte-rich water.
Notably, the nutrient content in enhanced waters differs, requiring careful scrutiny of the nutrition label.
In the debate between bottled and tap water, the scales tip toward the latter. While the FDA regulates bottled water, the EPA oversees tap water, adhering to standards outlined in the Safe Drinking Water Act.
Despite the variance among municipalities, tap water generally earns the “safe to drink” stamp. When contamination concerns arise, communities promptly notify residents, issuing advisories to boil or avoid tap water.
Nonetheless, the evolving scientific understanding of substances like PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl) complicates matters. These “forever chemicals” – due to their persistence and potential toxicity – have been linked to an array of health issues, spanning from cancer to thyroid ailments, high cholesterol, and pregnancy-related conditions.
To encapsulate, the complexity of water choices condenses to a single, compelling truth: the ultimate criterion for selecting water pivots on its safety, accessibility, and affordability.
While the water’s type might hold marginal relevance, water intake volume undeniably reigns supreme. In a world where water’s abundance isn’t universal, appreciating this luxury stands vital.
Share your thoughts about your choice of healthiest water to drink in the comments below!
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