Understanding the Essential: Water and its Varied Mineral Profiles
Drinking water is an operation that is as banal as it is essential for maintaining our state of health. However, not all the water we drink is the same. In fact, each type of water has a specific mineral composition which can determine different benefits for our body. The human body is made up of over 60% water and, for all its processes to function properly, it is essential to stay hydrated. In fact, water helps eliminate toxins, promotes digestion, keeps the skin healthy and elastic, regulates body temperature and helps absorb nutrients. Regarding the different mineral compositions, you should know that there are different types of water on the market. Some types of water, for example, contain a greater quantity of calcium, which is very useful for bone and tooth health. Another element often present is magnesium, which is important for the correct functioning of muscles and the nervous system. Then there are waters rich in bicarbonates, useful for digestion, or waters with a high sodium content, which however are better consumed in moderation. Naturally, the choice of the type of water to drink depends largely on the specific needs of each individual. Many, for example, look for waters low in sodium to monitor blood pressure, or rich in calcium to prevent osteoporosis. Someone, however, may prefer water with a particular taste, often given by its specific mineral composition. Furthermore, it is very important to consider the pH of the water. Alkaline water, for example, with a pH above 7, can help counteract stomach acid while, on the other hand, a pH that is too low could irritate the gastrointestinal tract. When choosing water, it is always essential to consult a doctor or dietician in order to make an informed choice that is best suited to our nutritional needs. However, let's not forget that, above all else, the most important aspect is always to drink enough, possibly distributing the various glasses of water throughout the day, to guarantee optimal hydration for the body. Health and well-being, in fact, begin with small daily gestures, among which there is certainly that of drinking water.
What minerals are in the water
Mineral water is much more than just a thirst quencher. Thanks to the presence of minerals such as magnesium, iron, calcium, silicon, sodium and potassium, mineral water provides essential nutrients for our health. Minerals are fundamental chemical components for life, so much so that their daily intake is essential to maintain the correct functioning of the organism. Magnesium contributes to the formation of bones and teeth, muscle and nerve function and the maintenance of electrolyte balance, while iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin, a protein that transports oxygen in the blood. Calcium, the most abundant mineral in the human body, is essential for the health of bones and teeth, but is also involved in blood clotting and the functioning of nerves and muscles. Silicon, although present in smaller quantities, plays an important role in the formation and maintenance of bones, as well as participating in the production of collagen, which is essential for the health of skin, hair and nails. Sodium and potassium are particularly important for the correct functioning of the nervous system and for maintaining hydroelectrolyte balance, i.e. the right proportion between water and mineral salts in the body. An excess or deficit of these two substances can lead to a series of health problems including muscle cramps, weakness, tachycardia or even shock. When talking about mineral water, one of the fundamental indicators to consider is the fixed residue. This parameter, expressed in milligrams per liter, indicates the quantity of minerals that the water contains. The fixed residue is measured after the evaporation of the water at 180°C and the subsequent combustion of the residues at the same temperature. The water is then classified into different categories based on the fixed residue: slightly mineralized if the fixed residue is less than 500 mg/l, medium mineralized if it ranges from 500 to 1500 mg/l, rich in minerals if it exceeds 1500 mg/l L. Each category of mineral water has specific properties and can be more or less suitable depending on the nutritional needs and state of health of the person who drinks it. Therefore, not all waters are the same, and the choice of which one to drink can significantly affect our physical well-being. Consequently, it is important to know which minerals the water we drink contains and how high its mineralization is.
Types of water
In daily life, water comes in different types, each with unique characteristics that make it suitable for different uses. Only by knowing the various types will we be able to choose the water that best suits our needs. Calcium waters, as the name suggests, have a high concentration of calcium. This element is essential for our health, in fact calcium is essential for the development and maintenance of healthy bones and teeth, as well as playing an important role in blood coagulation and nerve transmission. However, not everyone is able to adequately assimilate this type of water, especially those suffering from kidney stones. Waters rich in bicarbonates, on the other hand, are a real panacea for our digestive system. The latter in fact neutralize excess acidity, promoting digestion. As for magnesium waters, these are rich in magnesium, a precious mineral that helps keep the muscular, nervous and cardiovascular systems healthy. Sulphurous waters are rich in sulfur and are often used for therapeutic purposes, especially for the treatment of dermatological and rheumatic conditions. There are also distinct waters based on their sodium concentration: waters low in sodium, ideal for those suffering from pathologies such as hypertension or water retention, and waters rich in sodium, suitable for those who carry out intense physical activity and therefore need to replenish the salts lost through sweat. Chlorinated waters, on the other hand, are those waters that contain chlorine salts. These waters promote digestion and diuresis, and for this reason they are often recommended for those suffering from gastro-intestinal pathologies. Fluoridated waters contain fluoride which is a very important element for dental health, as it helps prevent tooth decay. However, excess fluoride can lead to fluorosis, a condition that can harm dental health. Finally, ferruginous waters contain iron, and this is why they are recommended for those suffering from anemia or those who simply need to replenish this important mineral. Ultimately, there are different types of water, each with its own specificities. The choice of water to drink must be made carefully, taking into account your health needs and personal taste.
Which water to choose
Although there are many differences between the different waters available on the market, it is important to underline that, in general, any type of water can be suitable for ensuring an adequate supply of water to our body, unless your doctor suggests otherwise. First, we can distinguish between tap water and bottled water. Tap water, regulated by strict health controls, is an absolutely valid and convenient option that allows us to reduce the environmental impact linked to the consumption of plastic bottles. However, it can vary greatly in flavor and mineral content depending on the geographical area in which we live. Bottled water comes in two main variations: still and sparkling. Still water is often preferred for its daily hydration intake, while sparkling water, thanks to its ability to stimulate satiety, is often consumed during meals. It's important to keep in mind that sparkling water can cause bloating in some people, so if you're experiencing these symptoms, it may be best to opt for still water. Bottled waters also vary in mineral content. Some, in fact, are particularly rich in calcium or magnesium or other salts, and can therefore be used to integrate the intake of these nutrients in the diet. It is also important to remember the filtered water option: a good water filter can reduce the presence of chlorine and some types of minerals in tap water, improving its taste. When choosing which water to drink, the general advice is to vary: the ideal is to alternate tap water with bottled water, both natural and sparkling, to guarantee the body a wide range of mineral salts. Last but not least is the taste. Each of us has our own preferences in terms of the taste of water, and it is therefore essential that we like the water we choose to drink. Only in this way will we be encouraged to drink the amount of water our body needs. Any water is fine for hydrating, unless your doctor gives us different indications based on specific health conditions such as hypertension, kidney failure, stones, etc., which may require water with a particular balance of mineral salts.
