Water

We need 4-6 glasses of water per day but not all water is the same or has the same benefit. Some of the more common types of water include tap, spring, mineral, purified, alkaline, distilled and coconut. Water regulations are the responsibility of both the FDA and the EPA. The EPA regulates tap water, and the FDA regulates bottled water.

Bottled spring water must be tested and filtered for sediment. Spring water comes from underground sources. In its natural form it’s alkaline (PH above 7) and naturally has minerals such as potassium, calcium, and sodium. With that said, not everything is naturally good and spring water can have adverse agents such as arsenic in trace amounts.

Mineral water also comes from underground sources. However, the FDA mandates it contain 250 parts per million of mineral solvents and no additional minerals can be added. Mineral water contains magnesium sulfate, bicarbonate, and calcium.

Purified water can come from any source and goes through a process to remove impurities, also known as tap water. This process kills the bad stuff but many time the good things in the water as well. 

Alkaline water has PH of between 8 and 9.5. Its properties can protect the body from free radicals that are linked to inflammation and chronic diseases. A word of caution, too much alkaline water can lower the bodies PH level and weaken bones or diminish the immune system.

Distilled water is boiled purified water and is used in products such as irons, cosmetic production, and auto parts. Due to the removal of minerals and vitamins it also loses its long-term ability to hydrate.

Coconut water is rich in nutrients and minerals, but also contains natural sugar. Some research suggests that coconut water contains antioxidants. Additional animal research suggests that coconut water can help reduce blood pressure, triglycerides, and insulin levels, but no human studies have confirmed these outcomes.