We all hear how we need to drink more water, but what is the best water to drink?
Surprisingly, only 1% of the world’s water is safe for drinking. Close to 97% of the world’s water is salty or contaminated, and the other 2% exists in the glaciers.
How do we know which water is safe to drink? This guide will walk you through which water is best to drink to rest assured you are doing what is best for your body.
What Are the Different Types of Water?
Water comes typically from either municipal water systems, private wells, or springs. Each one has different minerals and bacteria in it that offer a unique taste. Drinking water is often treated to have a better taste and have removed certain bacteria.
Adding a filtration system to your water will help remove harmful bacteria and any byproducts of the disinfecting chemical treatments, no matter the type you choose to drink. Visit discountfilters.com to view filters for your faucets, showers, refrigerators, and more.
Listed below are the different sources of drinking water.
Tap Water
Tap water is a piped water supply that you get from your faucet. This water source is usually treated with fluoride, which can affect the taste. In addition, the pipe material and age of the pipe can also affect the taste and provide its own set of bacteria.
Tap water is safe to drink in most of the United States and is healthier and cheaper than any other water. However, it must meet the Safe Drinking Water Act standards before it can run through the pipes to your home.
Spring Water
Springwater is the water that comes from a natural spring. This water most often comes from the runoff of rain or snow on the mountains. Springwater can have a very distinct taste depending on the region it is located.
This type of water contains helpful minerals and has a reputation for being very clean and pure. Unfortunately, it can be very costly to acquire springwater to drink all the time because of this.
Mineral Water
Mineral water comes from underground reservoirs and does not go through the same chemical treatments as regular tap water. Some of the minerals found in mineral water include:
- calcium
- magnesium
- potassium
- sodium
- bicarbonate
- iron
- zinc
Mineral water can help with digestion, strengthen your bones, and lower blood pressure. According to the FDA, the best mineral water to drink contains at least 250 parts per million of total dissolved solids, originating from a geologically protected underground source.
Well Water
Well water comes straight from the ground and is untreated. If you have a well on your property, it may be convenient, but it also has some risks.
While you can have the water treated yourself, it can be costly, and there is always a chance of contamination. While it is possible to have safe drinking water from a well, you will want to have it treated and tested often to prevent any infections.
Alkaline Water
Alkaline water has a higher pH level than other types of water and contains alkaline minerals. It can be found naturally from volcanos or springs but can be artificial as well. However, it can cause nausea if you drink it in excess because of its lower acidic properties.
Distilled Water
Distilled water comes from collecting the steam of boiling water. This type of water does not contain any minerals or vitamins since it is simply just the steam of water. Although there are no health benefits from distilled water, it is safe to drink.
Best Bottled Water to Drink
A study done by Augusto Robles showed that the best bottled water to drink should have a pH above 5.5 to avoid damaging your teeth’ enamel. In addition, this study showed that Fiji, Just Water, Deer Park Natural Spring Water, and Evamor are all safe bottled waters.
Best Time to Drink Water
While drinking water all day is best for you, we all know it can be not easy. So what is the best time to drink water to achieve optimal results?
When You Wake Up
Since you do not drink water throughout the night while sleeping, you are already waking up dehydrated. Drinking a glass of water will help restore your body to its baseline and begin flushing your body so it can prepare for the day.
Before and During a Meal
Drinking a glass of water before your meal can help with weight loss. It will help curb your hunger and prevent you from overeating. It also helps to drink a glass of water with your meal to help aid digestion.
Midafternoon Slump
Instead of reaching for another cup of caffeine to get you to bedtime, try going for a glass of water. Water helps to improve your mood and energy without suffering from the crash that caffeine gives you.
Before, During, and After Exercise
When you are moving and exercising, your body is sweating away your water. Drinking water before, during, and after exercising will help replenish any fluids you have lost during your workout to prevent dehydration.
Bedtime
Try to keep a glass of water by your bed during the night. If you wake up thirsty in the middle of the night, you will be able to take a sip or two. Having a cup nearby also makes it easier to get your water in the morning, so you don’t accidentally reach for the coffee instead.
Best Water to Drink
When trying to decide what’s the best water to drink, it all comes down to personal preference and taste. Out of all the different types of water, tap water remains the most cost-effective and convenient water. However, all have their health benefits and unique tastes.
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