The demand for drinking water is a basic need in life. Not only is it used for quenching thirst, but nowadays there are also types of water that are supplemented with beneficial minerals for health. One of these types is mineral water. To understand what mineral water is, its origin, benefits, and all the information about this type of water, let’s explore with Ocany below.
Table of Contents
ToggleWhat are minerals?
Minerals (or mineral nutrients) are nutrients that do not provide energy to the body, but they play important roles in maintaining fluid balance, and promoting the development of bones, teeth, muscles, and nervous system.
Minerals are divided into two main groups: trace minerals and major minerals. With nearly 60 elements, minerals with high levels will be classified as major minerals (such as Ca, P, Mg, K, …), while those with lower levels will be classified as trace minerals (such as I, F, Cu, Co, Zn, Mn, …).
What is mineral water?
Mineral water is a type of water that is extracted and produced directly from a mineral spring. It contains a variety of mineral salts and sulfur compounds, which are the components that distinguish it from other types of water. Mineral water contains natural minerals and trace elements that are beneficial to health.
Originating from natural underground springs and aquifers, mineral water is filtered through geological layers and completely isolated from external environments for many years. As a result, surface water sources such as rainwater, rivers, lakes, and oceans are not considered mineral water.
As the name suggests, mineral water contains a variety of minerals and trace elements, including sodium, calcium, magnesium, bicarbonate, and depending on the source, may also contain potassium, silica, iron, and other minerals.
The mineral content in mineral water is dependent on the source of the water, which means that the taste and effects of different types of mineral water may vary.
Minerals in mineral water
Mineral content in mineral water is often extracted from natural underground water sources. In addition to oxygen and hydrogen, mineral water also contains many beneficial trace elements for the body, provided that they are properly filtered.
The composition of minerals in mineral water may vary depending on the source of the water. To better understand the minerals in mineral water, you can refer to the information table below. These are some of the most common minerals found in mineral water as identified by experts.
Mineral | Uses |
Natri | Maintaining internal balance, stabilizing the pH concentration in the blood, regulating permeability pressure. A lack of sodium can cause fatigue, cramps, weakness, etc. |
Kali | It is essential for all living cells in the body, helping muscles to function effectively and preventing the risk of stroke. |
Magie | Promoting energy metabolism, nerve transmission, and delaying aging. Drinking mineral water containing magnesium helps to awaken the mind, restore muscle function, and quickly regain flexibility. |
Canxi | It plays an important role in the development of bones, teeth, and nervous system function. If this nutrient is deficient, children will suffer from rickets and adults will suffer from osteoporosis. |
Flo | Supporting the body’s absorption of calcium and preventing dental caries. |
Bicarbonat | Reducing stomach acid, improving digestive problems to help you eat better and digest more easily. |
Sunfat |
It has a laxative effect, reduces mild joint degeneration symptoms. |
In addition, these minerals also play a role in the body’s biological functions. For example, they contribute to hormone synthesis, enzyme production, and prevention of tooth decay. Therefore, drinking mineral water daily is an effective way to prevent mineral deficiencies and enhance health.
Benefits of Mineral Water:
After learning what mineral water is, we should also know the amazing benefits of this type of water. In general, supplementing minerals for the body is essential. In addition to nutrient-rich foods, drinking mineral water is a simple way to add essential minerals to our body. Let’s explore the benefits of this precious water with Ocany!
Note: Ocany may refer to a brand or company that produces or sells mineral water.
Supplementing Magnesium
Magnesium is an important mineral for the body. It is present in almost all cells and about 30% of the magnesium is stored in the muscles. This mineral is involved in the production of energy, the formation of internal protein, and plays an important role in muscle contraction and relaxation. In addition, magnesium is also necessary for a healthy bone and teeth system. Moreover, it also actively supports the body in activating hundreds of enzymes.
Studies have shown that people who exercise regularly need to supplement more magnesium. This is because it is related to improving muscle performance. You can supplement magnesium through food and mineral water, both are ideal options.
Strengthening Bone Health
Calcium is an important mineral in the process of bone, teeth, and nail formation and development. Regardless of the age stage, we all need to supplement an appropriate amount of calcium to help develop and maintain the best bone health.
What is mineral water, what components can help improve bone health? According to research, calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonate are the compounds that make bones strong. More importantly, the calcium in mineral water is easier to absorb than the calcium in milk. This is good news for those who cannot use milk.
Another study on a group of postmenopausal women showed that those who regularly drank mineral water had higher bone density than those who drank water without calcium minerals.
Helps reduce blood pressure
In addition to the bone-strengthening benefits, calcium and magnesium also support blood pressure regulation. Studies have shown that these two minerals are related to the electrolyte balance in the human body, which can help stabilize blood pressure and promote effective blood circulation.
Another small-scale study on 70 adults has shown a correlation between drinking calcium and magnesium-containing mineral water and stable blood pressure levels. Other small-scale studies have also shown that women who regularly consume sodium bicarbonate-containing water are able to control neutral fat (triglyceride) and bad cholesterol levels. The research suggests that carbonated mineral water has the ability to protect and prevent coronary heart disease.
Beneficial for the cardiovascular system
Several small-scale studies have also shown that adult women who regularly drink water containing sodium bicarbonate can control their levels of neutral fats (triglycerides) and bad cholesterol. The results of the study concluded that carbonated mineral water has the potential to protect and prevent coronary heart disease.
In addition, the two minerals magnesium and potassium found in mineral water also contribute to limiting harmful LDL cholesterol for the heart. However, further large-scale studies and reports are needed to confirm the effects of mineral water. How beneficial is it for the cardiovascular system?
Relieves constipation
A lack of magnesium can lead to a decrease in the digestive system’s absorption function. Magnesium works by absorbing water into the intestine and softening it, making excretion easier.
A study conducted on people with chronic constipation for nearly 2 months showed that drinking 500ml of water containing magnesium and sulfate daily helped them have easier bowel movements.
This proves that ensuring the necessary amount of water and minerals will help improve the digestive system and maintain better bowel motility.
Supports weight loss
Mineral water contains a large amount of essential minerals for the body. These minerals help break down and metabolize fats, helping to burn excess fat in the body.
Drinking mineral water in a scientific way and maintaining a proper calorie intake can help you control and significantly reduce your weight.
Mineral water helps to beautify the skin
Drinking mineral water can help improve the appearance of skin. Silica is one of the compounds found in mineral water that is beneficial for the body. It is involved in the synthesis of proteins in connective tissue such as collagen, elastin, and gelatin. These proteins are essential for healthy skin, and consuming silica can help support their production. Additionally, staying hydrated by drinking enough water can help keep skin looking plump and hydrated, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Therefore, it will help prevent the aging process for the skin, prevent the absorption of light by the skin. In addition to the skin beautifying effect, it also reduces the production of melanin pigments, thereby controlling the appearance of blemishes on the skin.
Regulating circulation and blood flow
The composition of mineral water contains a large amount of calcium, magnesium and potassium. All of these substances have the function of promoting circulation and blood flow.
In addition, calcium is also one of the essential substances needed to build and maintain strong bones, and helps regulate heart rate and rhythm.
Other benefits of mineral water
Other benefits of mineral water include being calorie-free, so you can drink it without worrying about weight gain. However, don’t overdo it with consumption. Mineral water also helps improve the body’s pH level due to the presence of sodium bicarbonate. Sulfate in mineral water also helps enhance metabolism.
Is drinking mineral water good?
The minerals in mineral water are very good for the body. Especially for those who often sweat, have a diet lacking in minerals, drinking mineral water is a perfect choice to take care of and ensure good health. However, there are some things to keep in mind when using mineral water.
The mineral content depends on the source of the water. This means that mineral water in different areas will have different mineral compositions. Therefore, some mineral water products will have high sodium content, which is not suitable for those with high blood pressure.
In addition, people with kidney problems should also consider using this type of water. Because mineral water contains potassium, if kidney function is impaired and excess potassium cannot be eliminated, it can have negative effects on health.
Should you drink mineral water every day?
Minerals are present in many natural foods, and you can supplement them by eating a balanced diet. In addition, mineral water is a source of minerals that experts recommend. You can definitely drink mineral water every day, but for those with high blood pressure, kidney disease, and pregnant women, it is recommended to consult a doctor for proper health advice.
Risks to note when using mineral water
In general, mineral water is quite safe for health when used. There are very few studies that can indicate the negative effects of mineral water on the human body. However, there are still some risks that users need to be aware of when using it.
One common phenomenon is bloating or flatulence when using mineral water due to the carbonic acid content in the water. In addition, mineral water taken from natural mineral water sources that have not undergone sterilization steps like purified water may be difficult to control the source of bacteria in it.
Toxicity from plastic
If you use mineral water from unreliable brands, you may encounter plastic bottles containing bisphenol A or BPA. These chemicals can interfere with the normal endocrine function of the body.
Plastic particles and microplastics have been found in bottled mineral water, especially when users come into contact with the mouth of the bottle.
Although scientists have found that these plastic particles do not pose any health risks in a toxicity assessment of plastic in bottled water, this is still a potential risk that could have negative effects on users in the long term.
Affects teeth
Additionally, using carbonated water directly in contact with teeth can significantly soften the hardness of tooth enamel, according to a lab test conducted by PubMed Central.
Therefore, when using mineral water, especially carbonated mineral water, it may have some negative effects on oral health.
Environmental problems
Environmental issues are also a concern when it comes to using too many plastic bottles, which can have a very negative impact on the environment. Additionally, natural mineral water sources are becoming increasingly scarce, which many countries are beginning to address through stricter regulations on extraction. Some companies have opted to use tap water and add appropriate minerals for health benefits instead.
Distinguishing mineral water and purified water
Similarities:
Both mineral water and purified water are produced using modern processing technology, meet high standards, are disinfected, and ensure safety and hygiene for users. They can completely replace home filtered water.
Differences:
Water source:
Purified water can be taken from wells, rivers, domestic water, etc. After the disinfection and RO membrane filtration process, we have purified water. Mineral water is taken from natural water sources. They flow through geological layers containing elements, natural gases, and mineral compounds. Nowadays, with modern technology, mineral water can be created by adding minerals.
Composition:
Purified water: does not contain impurities, bacteria, metals, or any toxic substances, but it also does not contain any minerals. Mineral water: in addition to water, mineral water also contains many essential trace elements and natural minerals needed for the body.
Should I choose mineral water or purified water?
Drinking enough water is extremely important for everyone’s health. It helps all the cells in the body to function at their best. Therefore, you must always supply enough water for your body.
So between mineral water and purified water, which type of water should you choose? This is one of the questions that many people are interested in. According to experts, both types of water play an important role in replenishing water for the body. Both types of water have many benefits as well as negative effects on the body.
It depends on the needs and condition of the body to choose the appropriate type of water.
Drinking mineral water correctly maximizes the benefits for the body
The body of an adult can only absorb a certain amount of minerals per day. Therefore, drinking too much mineral water with high mineral content will make the body unable to absorb other minerals and may even cause kidney stones.
In addition, if the body has to receive too many minerals at once, it can lead to acute poisoning. Symptoms of poisoning include pain in the upper stomach, dizziness, and nausea.
So how should you drink mineral water properly to maximize the benefits for the body?
- Pay attention to the mineral content and ensure it is below 1000mg/L. For products with a mineral content above 1000mg, seek advice from a doctor before use.
- Do not drink mineral water instead of filtered water every day, but combine them in a reasonable way.
- Do not boil mineral water because the mineral content may increase under the influence of temperature, which can be harmful to health.
- Do not drink too much mineral water too quickly because the body will not absorb all of the minerals. In addition, the excretory system will have to work harder to excrete excess minerals, leading to the risk of kidney stones.
- Do not drink too much at night because it will make the excretory system work harder and affect sleep.
- Do not drink too much during and after meals because it will increase the volume of the stomach, leading to inefficient digestive system function.
Before using a product, it is important to understand the body’s needs and health condition. If you have high blood pressure or kidney problems, be cautious and consult a doctor before using.
Famous mineral water brands
In the following, Ocany will introduce to you some mineral water brands from famous, safe, and beneficial for health, so that you can consider when choosing.
Lavie Natural Mineral Water
Lavie is a famous brand of the Nestle Water Group. Lavie has long been familiar to consumers. With the quality of its products and attractive advertising campaigns, “For You”, Lavie has gradually occupied the TOM (top of mind) of millions of users.
After many years of formation and development, Lavie has achieved outstanding achievements. According to Nielsen’s 2016 report, Lavie natural mineral water ranked first in the largest market share of bottled drinking water.
Lavie natural mineral water contains 6 types of natural minerals that are good for health. The mineral content is below 350mg/l, which does not affect the kidneys and can be used daily.
Lavie mineral water has a wide range of products, including 350ml, 500ml, 750ml, 1L, 6L bottles and 20L upside-down jugs. In addition, Lavie also has a premium mineral water version with a dynamic, sophisticated, and trendy design suitable for important events.
Evian mineral water
Evian natural mineral water is a premium brand from Danone Group (France). The origin of Evian water is very precious, it is extracted from underground water sources in the Alps. With modern production technology, the water source still retains 9 natural minerals after processing, which is safe and very good for health.
In addition, Evian mineral water is highly regarded for its design and packaging. With a sporty and internationally acclaimed style, Evian quickly became a popular choice among consumers. However, its drawback is its relatively high price and limited availability.
Conclusion
Minerals are essential elements in the body’s metabolic processes, and supplementing them to improve health is a concern for many people in modern life. You can provide minerals to your body through food or, simply, mineral water. Hopefully, this article has helped you understand what mineral water is, the benefits of minerals, and the advantages of using mineral water. If you have any questions about this article, please leave a comment below.
John Alen was born in 1971 and is a doctor in the healthcare and psychology fields with many years of experience. He is currently working at easyhealthylive.com, a leading health and psychology blog. Having studied at Y1 National Medical University named after IM Sechenov, John Alen is using his knowledge and experience to help improve the physical and mental health of people in the United States.