Water covers about 71 percent of the earth's total surface area. Although, not all of it is drinkable. Only about 3 percent of the earths water is freshwater.
Almost everyone understands it is essential to intake water, but many of us are confused about which type is the best for us.
This article will discuss the uses, types of water, and their pros and cons, which may help you decide what's best for you. (Gibson, J.J., Birks, S.J., Yi, Y., Moncur, M.C. and McEachern, P.M., 2016)
Water that has been filtered to remove chemicals and other contaminants are called purified water. It is typically produced using tap water or groundwater. Many types of impurities like bacteria, fungi, algae, parasites, metals such as copper or lead, and other harmful chemicals are removed through this process.
Pros-
Countries that have safe tap water systems can still contain traces of contaminants. Purification is, therefore, necessary to filter out toxins.
Chlorine is added to the public water supply as a disinfectant but is still unsafe for long-term human consumption and may cause cancer. Charcoal purification systems remove chlorine from water.
Another benefit of purifying water is that it removes the unpleasant taste from chemically treated water and makes it fresh and pure to taste.
Cons-
Although there are many health benefits of drinking purified water, it still has some drawbacks.
Water purifiers must be maintained at regular intervals. If not done timely, it can build up more contaminants in the old filters.
Some contaminants, such as pesticides, may still persist in the drinking water depending on which pesticides are used.
We are disposing of filters or buying plastic bottled purified water cause large amounts of waste.
Boiling is probably the cheapest and yet an effective way to purify water. Boiled water is usually clean, safe, and healthy for drinking.
Pros-
It is the easiest and cheapest way to clean water. It can be done at home without much effort or a cleaner.
Cons-
Boiled water does not remove hard toxins and chemicals like lead, nitrate, pesticides, or other chemicals.
Unlike standard water, mineral water has minerals added to it either naturally or unnaturally. When the water sources are rivers, lakes, and wells that are rich in minerals, the water can be considered rich in quality. Mineral water is generally spring water that has more minerals added to it.
Pros-
Mineral water contributes to lowering blood pressure and contributes to good heart health.
Cons-
It can be expensive.
Mineral water may cause hiccups or bloat in some people.
Alkaline water is made by increasing the pH level of regulated water. It has acidic and alkaline components.
Pros-
It can neutralize the acid in our bodies.
Some say it can slow down the aging process.
Cons-
Consuming alkaline water may cause nausea, vomiting, hand tremors, and muscle twitching which is caused by metabolic alkalosis.
Infused or flavored water is a mixture of fruits, vegetables, or herbs in water.
Pros-
It has healing properties based on the type of fruits, vegetables, or herbs.
It contains multi-vitamins that boost immunity, heal wounds faster and increase bone density.
Cons-
It can contain high amounts of sugar and carbohydrates, which can slow down the weight loss process in some people.
Springwater contains all the essential minerals beneficial for our health and also gives water its natural taste.
Pros-
It contains essential minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and calcium.
Cons-
Some spring water bought from stores may not be filtered at all and contain harmful toxins such as lead and mercury.
Sparkling water, also referred to as carbonated water or soda water, is made by infusing carbon dioxide gas under pressure.
Pros-
Sparkling waters usually are mineralized, which adds to health benefits. Plus, they offer a different feel to the mouth than flat water if anyone wants something fizzy without added sugar or sweeteners and also keep hydrated.
Cons-
It can be more expensive than your regular tap water or some bottled water.
There are pros and cons to every type of water. It may vary from person to person which type of water suits them.
We are not created equal, and there is no superior water type for all. However, some types of water may be more beneficial to an individual than others, depending on the individual's health. (Lam, M., Krenz, J., Palmndez, P., Negrete, M., Perla, M., Murphy-Robinson, H. and Spector, J.T., 2013)
