Navigating the Waters: Investigating the types of water and their impact on our health

It is crucial to educate ourselves on the various types of water available and their impact on our health. From tap water to spring water, each type has its unique characteristics. In this post, we will briefly dive into the world of water and explore the dangers, common contaminants, and potential benefits associated with different water sources.

Tap Water

Tap water is the most accessible and commonly used source of drinking water. While it undergoes treatment to remove harmful bacteria and contaminants, it may still contain traces of chemicals like chlorine, fluoride, and heavy metals. These substances, if present in high concentrations, can have adverse effects on our health. Excessive fluoride accumulation can lead to issues like skeletal fluorosis and arthritis. Tap water is regulated and subject to strict safety standards, making it generally safe for consumption in Australia. You should still investigate the quality of your tap water as significant variations in tap water mineral content have been found between Australian cities.

Filtered Water

Filtered water refers to tap water that has undergone additional filtration processes to remove impurities. Common filtration methods include activated carbon filters, ceramic filters, and reverse osmosis systems. These filters can remove chlorine, sediments, pesticides, and certain heavy metals, improving the taste and odour of water. Filtered water can be a reliable and cost-effective option for those concerned about contaminants in tap water.

Reverse Osmosis Water

Reverse osmosis is a filtration process that uses a semipermeable membrane to remove dissolved solids, minerals, and impurities from water. These systems can effectively eliminate contaminants such as bacteria, viruses, heavy metals, and pesticides. While it provides purified water, it also removes beneficial minerals, potentially leading to mineral deficiencies in the long term. It's important to note that remineralisation or consuming a mineral-rich diet can address this concern.

Alkaline water

Alkaline water is water with a higher pH than regular drinking water. It is made by increasing the water's alkalinity through methods like adding minerals or using water ionises. Advocates claim it will help keep your body more alkaline and less acidic, although there are no clear scientific bases for this claim. Our bodies naturally regulate pH; therefore, the impact of alkaline water is not well understood. Alkaline water is not to be confused with naturally occurring alkaline mineral water, which is sourced from springs or mineral-rich environments.

Mineral Water

Mineral water is sourced from natural springs and contains a variety of minerals and trace elements, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These minerals contribute to the taste and potential health benefits of mineral water. However, the mineral content can vary depending on the source, and excessive consumption may not be suitable for individuals with specific health conditions or dietary restrictions.

Spring Water

Spring water comes from underground sources and is often considered pure and naturally filtered. It typically retains a balanced mineral composition and may offer a refreshing taste. It is important to choose reputable brands that ensure proper quality control and testing to avoid potential contaminants like excessive levels of radioactive elements which can be present in natural springs.

Structured Water

Structured water refers to water that has undergone specific processes or treatments to reorganise its molecular structure. Advocates claim that structured water exhibits improved hydration properties and increased bioavailability of nutrients. However, evidence supporting these claims is limited, and more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and mechanisms of structured water.

Conclusion

Water is the most important nutrient and yet not very well understood. Familiarising ourselves with the different types available can help us make informed choices. While tap water is generally safe, filtration methods like activated carbon filters and reverse osmosis systems can further improve water quality. Mineral water and spring water offer natural mineral content, but caution should be exercised regarding excessive consumption and quality control. As for structured water, more research is needed to establish its true benefits. These are only the tip of the iceberg, there are many other types of water all of which could produce significant harm or benefits to our health. Ultimately, maintaining hydration by optimising your water quality could be one of the most significant adaptations you can make to improve your health.