I developed a fondness for bottled mineral water when I lived in Europe, where it’s served in every home, pub, restaurant and even fast-food joints. Here in North America, despite our fondness for soft drinks, mineral water remains a little-known pleasure, despite its health benefits.
The Health Benefits of Drinking Mineral Water
Drinking sparkling mineral water with or between meals is a refreshing way to stay hydrated without adding any sugar, calories, or caffeine. (As we get older, our thirst reflex is less reliable and we are more likely to become dehydrated.)
It can also add up to a meaningful source of supplemental nutrition. A liter of mineral water can supply up to a quarter of your recommended calcium intake.
A liter of mineral water can supply up to a quarter of your recommended calcium intake.
Although mineral water is sometimes used to refer to any bottled or carbonated water, true mineral water comes from a natural spring and is rich in minerals that dissolve into the water as it filters through rock and sediment. Mineral water may be flat (“still”) or fizzy, and the carbonation may be naturally-occurring or added in the bottle. All mineral water is higher in minerals than club soda, seltzer, or tap water, but the mineral content varies dramatically from source to source — as does the flavor.
Connoisseurs of mineral waters use many of the same terms that you might use to describe a fine wine or gourmet coffee: peppery, savory, sweet, acidic, balanced, crisp, soft, salty, round, full-bodied, delicate, and so on.
The minerals responsible for these subtle — and not so subtle — notes include calcium, sulphur, sodium, potassium, iron, silicon and many other trace metals. Of these, the ones most important for your nutrition are calcium and magnesium. Studies have shown that regular intake of mineral water can help normalize blood pressure and reduce the risk of kidney stones.
The calcium in mineral water can also help strengthen bones and reduce colon cancer risk. Although mineral water can offer valuable nutrients, some brands also contain a significant amount of sodium — something you’ll want to watch out for if you’re trying to limit your intake.
If you’re looking for a nutritious and refreshing beverage, skip the nutrition drinks and sugar-spiked vitamin waters and try classic mineral water. Pick up a few different brands and have a tasting to find your favorite. Then, do as the Europeans do and put bottled mineral water on the table with every meal!
