In the quest for optimal health, the importance of staying hydrated cannot be overstated. The human body needs 50% of its weight in ounces of water per day. This is far above the myth that we only need eight 8 ounce cups per day. So many of our body processes rely on water to function as well as maintain elimination of toxins.
Water is also big business with water sale profits in the billions each year. There are many types of water available from your basic public tap water to expensive filtration and natural water resources. Each comes with its own price range based on availability, access and marketing.
With so many water options available though, which is the best for your health? Choosing
the right type of drinking water can be overwhelming and costly. Each option comes with its own set of benefits and considerations.
Why Tap Water is Not Ideal Drinking Water for Your Health
Tap water is the most readily available and economical option for many. It comes from municipal water supplies and is treated to meet safety standards. While tap water is generally safe to drink in most developed countries, concerns about contaminants such as lead and chemicals from treatment processes are a concern. This chart gives you the most common chemicals used in the US in the public water system. Additionally, communities can add additional chemicals!
If tap water is your resource for water, consider using a water filter can help alleviate chemical concerns, ensuring cleaner and safer drinking water. Filtered water, whether through pitcher filters, faucet attachments, or under-sink systems, undergoes additional filtration to remove impurities and improve taste. These filters can effectively reduce common contaminants like chlorine, lead, and microbial cysts, providing a cleaner and more refreshing drinking experience. Filtered water offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to bottled water.
Bottled Water is Often Overpriced Tap Water
Bottled water comes in various forms, including spring water, purified water, and mineral water. If you choose bottled water, please research the brand and read their website for information on where the water is sourced. In many cases bottled water has been found to come from your basic public water supply and pushed into plastic water bottles.
Spring water is sourced from natural springs and may contain minerals beneficial to health.
Purified water undergoes extensive filtration processes to remove impurities, while mineral water contains naturally occurring minerals like calcium and magnesium.
While bottled water offers convenience and portability, it may contribute to plastic waste and environmental concerns.
Alkaline and Ionized Water are Trendy but are They Good Water Sources for Your Health?
Alkaline Water: Alkaline water has gained popularity for its purported health benefits, including neutralizing acidity in the body and providing antioxidant properties. It has a higher pH level than regular water, typically ranging from 8 to 9.5. While some studies suggest potential health advantages, more research is needed to confirm these claims. Alkaline water can be purchased bottled or produced using specialized filtration systems.
In holistic medicine it is advised to have the body be more acidic than alkaline to support digestive process and support the microbiome that rely on a more acidic environment to thrive. I do not typically recommend alkaline water to my clients unless they are highly acidic and it is combined with dietary changes to establish balance. In these cases, alkaline water is only used for a short amount of time.
Ionized Water: Ionized water is another type of water that has undergone a process called electrolysis, which separates the water into acidic and alkaline components. Proponents claim that ionized water offers superior hydration and antioxidant benefits due to its altered molecular structure. However, scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited.
At this time I do not recommend to my clients to use ionized water as a regular drinking water.
The Benefits of Drinking Distilled Water
Drinking distilled water offers several potential benefits for health and well-being. One of the primary advantages is its purity. Distillation involves boiling water to produce steam, which is then condensed back into water, leaving behind impurities such as minerals, heavy metals, and contaminants. As a result, distilled water is exceptionally clean and free from many substances commonly found in tap or even filtered water. This purity may be particularly beneficial for individuals with certain health conditions or sensitivities to minerals or chemicals.
Additionally, some proponents suggest that drinking distilled water can help detoxify the body by flushing out toxins. However, it's essential to note that while distilled water may offer advantages in terms of purity, it lacks essential minerals that are beneficial for health. Therefore, it's essential to maintain a balanced diet and consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your water consumption habits.
I recommend distilled water to my clients as a way to increase absorption. With the purity of distilled water it is considered the "wettest water" and is easily absorbed into cells to improve hydration levels. As a general guideline, I recommend clients include some distilled water into their weekly drinking water habit when addressing health concerns.
Which Water is Best for You?
Choosing the best drinking water for your health ultimately depends on your preferences, access, and individual needs. It's essential to prioritize clean, safe water sources and consider factors like taste, convenience, and environmental impact. Whether you opt for tap water with a quality filtration system or prefer the convenience of bottled water, staying hydrated with clean water is crucial for overall well-being.
"Water is nature's best medicine." - Amy Kramer, Certified Traditional Naturopath
Remember to drink an adequate amount of water daily, listen to your body's hydration cues, and make informed choices about the water you consume. By understanding the different types of drinking water and their respective benefits, you can make empowered decisions to support your health and hydration goals.
I help you balance your health naturally through holistic medicine. As a certified traditional naturopath I believe water is nature's best medicine and important cornerstone for supporting health and well-being.
One of the best tips I offer clients to improve how much water they drink is by using a measured cup daily. Check out my favorite water vessels!
If you have questions about if natural and holistic health would be right for you, please setup a complimentary 15 minute consult at www.dragonspitapothecary.com
