Water is an essential part of our lives. It quenches our thirst, forms the basis of all our bodily functions, and is critical to our survival. But not all water is created equal.
Before diving into the many benefits of mineral-infused water, let’s first talk about what this means. Mineral water refers to water that contains key minerals such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, phosphorus zinc, chromium, copper, selenium, iron, and sodium. These minerals occur naturally and are essential to our body’s health. Unfortunately, tap water often lacks these essential minerals. Water treatment processes such as filtration, and chlorination, alter and deplete the mineral content of our water. However, by adding minerals back into our water, or purchasing mineral water we’re not only enhancing the flavor, but we are ensuring that we are providing our bodies with these essential nutrients that it needs.
Benefits of Adding Minerals to Water
Has your interest peaked yet? Good, mine too! It’s time to get into the benefits a bit further and learn why everyone should consider adding minerals to their water to meet their daily hydration needs.
Hydration
Hydration is key to maintaining good health. Water with key minerals is critical to our hydration. Sodium is a mineral that is often found in mineral water, and while we’re told to limit our sodium intake, it’s still essential for our body’s hydration. Sodium helps our cells absorb water, keeps electrolyte levels balanced, and prevents dehydration.
Digestive Support
One significant benefit of mineral-infused water is improved digestion. Magnesium, for example, helps regulate our digestive system and prevents constipation. Mineral water with ample magnesium and sulfate has also been shown to reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and helps to alleviate digestion symptoms such as bloating and constipation. Additionally, minerals like zinc, copper, and selenium also help to regulate the digestive system and even support gut health.
Strong Bones
Mineral-infused water is also great for your bones. Calcium, a mineral often found in mineral water, is essential for building strong bones and preventing osteoporosis. Calcium also aids in muscle function, blood clotting, and nerve function. Additionally, magnesium, another key mineral important for bone health, helps to regulate calcium absorption and bone formation.
Heart Health
Mineral-infused water can also improve heart health. A 2007 study showed that drinking mineral water that contained potassium and magnesium helped lower blood pressure in people with hypertension. Furthermore, magnesium has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease by improving circulation and reducing inflammation. So not only do you get to enjoy a refreshing drink, but you’re also taking care of your heart.
Improved Energy, Sleep, and Reduced Stress
Drinking mineralized water can provide you with the power to take on the day. The minerals present in mineralized water help convert food into energy, keeping you hydrated and healthy. This means you can work, play, and exercise more comfortably, feeling less fatigued or tired.
Additionally, magnesium can help to improve sleep quality by regulating the production of melatonin, a hormone that helps to regulate sleep-wake cycles. Lastly, magnesium also helps to regulate neurotransmitters that affect mood, resulting in reduced stress by regulating the production of cortisol, a hormone released in response to stress.
Minerals in Water
In conclusion, adding minerals to your water can provide various health and nutrition benefits, including improved digestion, stronger bones, better hydration, improved heart health, better energy, sleep, and lowered stress. Mineral water also enhances the taste of plain water, making it more enjoyable to drink. So next time you’re feeling a little parched, reach for a bottle of mineral water and know that you are taking care of yourself from the inside out.
Resources
https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/80400525/articles/ndbc32_watermin.pdf
