Your body needs water to stay hydrated and function properly. There are many different types of water available, like tap, spring, mineral, and distilled, each with pros and cons to consider.
1. Tap Water
Tap water is simply water that you get from your faucet, supplied through a system of pipes. Tap water comes from sources such as rivers, lakes, reservoirs, or underground aquifers.
Pros include:
- It is convenient and affordable.
- Public water agencies treat and test the water to remove impurities, such as bacteria, parasites, heavy metals, and chemicals.
- It may be fluoridated to help prevent tooth decay.
- It isn’t bottled, so it has less of a negative impact on the environment.
Drawbacks include:
- Many people complain about the taste of tap water. One study found that 26% of those surveyed didn’t think their local water tasted good.
- Although numerous processes are in place to remove impurities, tap water can still contain trace amounts of contaminants, such as chlorine, pesticides, or lead (from old pipes).
2. Mineral Water
Mineral water comes from a natural underground source. It contains minerals and trace elements, such as magnesium, sulfur, calcium, and potassium. Unlike tap water, mineral water is bottled.
Pros include:
- Contains minerals that may provide health benefits, such as improved digestion and supporting muscle and bone health.
- Many people prefer the taste of mineral water over tap water.
Drawbacks include:
- Costs much more than tap water.
- Bottled mineral water contributes to plastic waste and has an environmental impact.
- Different brands of mineral water contain different amounts of minerals. Some are high in sodium, which may be harmful for people with high blood pressure or other health conditions.
3. Spring Water
Spring water is collected at the spring or near its source. This type of water is bottled after it’s collected.
Pros include:
- Because it originates from an underground spring, spring water is typically clean and free from harmful chemicals.
- It may contain natural minerals, like magnesium and calcium.
- Many people prefer the fresh taste of spring water over other types.
Drawbacks include:
- Spring water is more expensive than tap water.
- The plastic bottle also contributes to plastic waste.
- Some types of bottled spring water aren’t strictly tested and could contain contaminants. Also, not all bottles labeled “spring” water actually come from a spring.
4. Sparkling Water
Sparkling water contains carbon dioxide gas. This gives it a fizzy and bubbly texture. The carbonation may occur naturally, or it can be added during the bottling process.
Pros include:
- Sparkling water is a good alternative to sugary sodas.
- It provides a refreshing and bubbly taste that many people enjoy.
- Some also find that carbonation can aid digestion.
Cons include:
- Sparkling water can be pricey.
- Some people also report that the carbonation causes gas or bloating, especially those with acid reflux or digestive issues.
- Because it’s slightly acidic, consuming a lot of sparkling water can erode tooth enamel.
5. Distilled Water
Distilled water has been purified through distillation, a process in which water is boiled to produce steam and then cooled back into a liquid.
Pros include:
- Distilled water is one of the cleanest forms of water. The distillation process removes nearly all impurities.
- It’s often the water of choice in medical settings.
- It’s also frequently used in humidifiers and nasal irrigation devices.
Drawbacks include:
- Distilled water lacks essential minerals.
- Many people report a flat or bland taste.
- Costs more than tap or filtered water
- Bottled water leaves an environmental impact.
6. Alkaline Water
Alkaline water is water that has a higher pH level, meaning it’s less acidic.
Pros include:
- Some people believe that alkaline water improves their health by balancing the body’s pH levels.
- Alkaline water often contains minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
- Research suggests that alkaline water may help reduce bone loss over time in postmenopausal individuals with osteoporosis. Other studies suggest alkaline water may enhance hydration and exercise performance. However, more evidence is needed to confirm these claims.
Drawbacks include:
- There’s limited scientific proof that alkaline water can provide more health benefits than other types of water.
- It’s more expensive than regular bottled water or tap water.
- Drinking too much alkaline water may have side effects, like nausea, headaches, or muscle cramps.
7. Purified Water
Purified water can come from any water source, such as a tap, well, or spring. It is specifically treated to meet the standards of purity or sterility. It must contain no chemicals and have a total dissolved solids concentration of no more than 10 parts per million. Techniques such as distillation, deionization, and reverse osmosis are used to purify water.
Pros include:
- It’s very clean and free of chemicals.
- It has a uniform taste, regardless of its original source.
- It is widely-available in stores or via home filtration systems.
Drawbacks include:
- Because most substances are removed, purified water might lack natural minerals, like calcium or magnesium.
- It might not contain fluoride, which can help prevent tooth decay.
- Higher cost for a home purification system or bottled purified water than tap water.
8. Well Water
Well water comes from a hole drilled in the ground to access an aquifer. It’s pumped directly into a home or building.
Pros include:
- Well water can taste fresh and clean.
- It contains natural minerals.
- You don’t have to pay a water utility company.
Drawbacks include:
- Well water should be tested regularly for bacteria, chemicals, and other contaminants.
- Private wells are not regulated under the Safe Water Drinking Act, which means homeowners are responsible for making sure the water is safe to drink.
- It is typically not fluoridated.
9. Flavored Water
Flavored water is water with natural or artificial flavors added.
Pros include:
- Some people may prefer drinking flavored water over plain water, which can aid hydration.
- Certain flavored waters are low in calories and sugar, making them good alternatives to sugary sodas.
- Flavored waters may contain added nutrients, such as vitamins or electrolytes, which can enhance your health and hydration.
Drawbacks include:
- Some flavored waters contain added sugars, sweeteners, or artificial ingredients.
- Additives in flavored water can act as diuretics, which cause you to lose more water than you gain.
- Can be more expensive than other types.
10. Electrolyte Water
Electrolyte water contains added electrolytes (charged minerals such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium).
Pros include:
- Proponents of electrolyte water believe it helps your body absorb and retain water more effectively.
- It’s especially useful for athletes who sweat a lot and need to replenish electrolytes.
- Minerals like potassium and magnesium can also help support muscle function and recovery.
Drawbacks include:
- Electrolyte water can be high in sodium.
- Costs more than plain drinking water.
- Some brands contain added sugars or flavorings.
- Individuals with kidney issues should be cautious about consuming excessive electrolyte water.
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