The Healthiest Bottled Water for Seniors

Picture this: You’re out for a leisurely stroll on a warm afternoon, and suddenly, thirst strikes. You pop into the nearest store, only to be confronted by a dizzying array of bottled water options. Spring, artesian, purified, alkaline—the choices seem endless. As a health-conscious senior, you can’t help but wonder: which one is actually the healthiest?

If this scenario sounds familiar, you’re not alone. In 2022, the total volume of bottled water sold reached its highest ever at 15.9 billion gallons. That’s a lot of H2O! 

With so many options on the market, how do we separate the truly beneficial from the merely adequate?

Here’s a thought to consider: not all bottled waters are the same. Some may contain trace amounts of contaminants, while others boast mineral contents that could rival a multivitamin. As we age, staying properly hydrated becomes increasingly important for our overall health and well-being. But it’s not just about drinking more water—it’s about drinking the right water.

Understanding Bottled Water

When it comes to bottled water, the choices can be overwhelming. But before we can determine which options are the healthiest, it’s crucial to understand the different types of bottled water available. Let’s break it down:

• Spring Water: This comes from an underground formation from which water flows naturally to the surface. Spring water is collected at the source or through a borehole tapping the underground formation.
• Purified Water: This is water that has been produced by distillation, deionization, reverse osmosis, or other suitable processes. Purified water may originate from any source, but it’s treated to meet the U.S. Pharmacopeia definition of purified water.
• Mineral Water: This water comes from an underground source and contains at least 250 parts per million total dissolved solids. Mineral water is distinguished from other types of bottled water by its constant level and relative proportions of mineral and trace elements at the point of emergence from the source.
• Artesian Water: This water originates from a well that taps a confined aquifer (a water-bearing underground layer of rock or sand), in which the water level is at least some height above the aquifer’s top.

The source of the water matters because it influences the mineral content and potential contaminants. For instance, spring water might contain natural minerals picked up as it flows through rock formations, while purified water typically has most minerals removed during processing.

It’s worth noting that all bottled water sold in the United States must meet FDA regulations for safety and quality. These standards are at least as stringent as those for municipal tap water overseen by the EPA. However, the specific mineral content and purification processes can vary widely between brands, which is where the differences in health benefits come into play.

What Makes Bottled Water ‘Healthy’?

When it comes to determining the healthiest bottled water, several factors come into play. Let’s explore the key elements that contribute to water’s healthiness and how they can benefit your well-being.

Mineral Content

Minerals and electrolytes in water aren’t just for taste—they can contribute to your daily nutritional needs. Some essential minerals found in water include:

• Calcium: Supports bone health and may help prevent osteoporosis.
• Magnesium: Aids in muscle and nerve function.
• Potassium: Helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
• Sodium: Crucial for fluid balance and nerve signaling (though it’s best in moderation).

The contents of electrolytes in water can vary significantly among different bottled water brands. For example, a study indicated that mineral water, especially those with added electrolytes, can contribute up to 17% of the recommended daily intake of calcium and magnesium.

pH Levels

You might have heard the buzz about alkaline water, but what does it mean? The pH scale ranges from 0 (very acidic) to 14 (very alkaline), with 7 being neutral. Most bottled water has a neutral pH of around 7.

Some believe that alkaline water (typically with a pH above 7) can offer benefits like improved hydration and acid reflux relief. However, it’s important to note that while some studies suggest potential benefits, more research is needed to confirm these claims.

Purification Processes

The method used to purify water can affect its final quality. Common purification processes include:

• Reverse Osmosis: Removes most contaminants but also strips out beneficial minerals.
• Distillation: Effectively removes contaminants but, like reverse osmosis, also removes minerals.
• UV Filtration: Kills bacteria and viruses but doesn’t remove chemical contaminants.

Some of the best mineral water brands combine these methods or add minerals back after purification to enhance the water’s nutritional value.

Absence of Contaminants

Healthy water isn’t just about what it contains—it’s also about what it doesn’t contain. The EPA sets legal limits on over 90 contaminants in drinking water to ensure safe drinking. Some common contaminants to watch out for include:

• Lead: Can cause developmental issues and other health problems.
• Arsenic: A known carcinogen.
• Microplastics: Tiny plastic particles that can potentially carry harmful chemicals.

To check for contaminants, you can review a brand’s water quality report, often available on their website or by request. These reports list any detected contaminants and their levels.

Remember, the healthiest water for you may depend on your individual needs and health goals. For instance, if you’re looking to increase your mineral intake, a mineral-rich spring water might be ideal. If you’re more concerned about purity, a carefully purified water might be the better choice.

5 Top Healthiest Bottled Water Brands

What’s the healthiest water brand? Now that we understand what makes water “healthy,” we’ll examine some of the top contenders in the bottled water market. These brands have been selected based on their mineral content, pH levels, purification processes, and overall quality.

1. Fiji Natural Artesian Water

Fiji water is known for its smooth taste and high silica content, which some studies suggest may promote skin health. Its natural filtration through volcanic rock gives it a unique mineral profile.

• Source: Artesian aquifer in Fiji
• pH: 7.7 (slightly alkaline)
• Notable minerals: Silica, magnesium, calcium

2. Evian Natural Spring Water

Evian’s water takes 15 years to filter through mineral-rich glacial rocks, resulting in a well-balanced mineral composition and one of the healthiest spring waters. It’s particularly high in calcium, which is crucial for bone health, making it one of the best mineral waters found on the market.

• Source: French Alps
• pH: 7.2 (neutral)
• Notable minerals: Calcium, magnesium, potassium

3. Icelandic Glacial Natural Spring Water

Icelandic Glacial boasts an exceptionally high pH level, making it one of the more alkaline options on the market. Its low mineral content makes it a good choice for those who prefer a “lighter” taste.

• Source: Ölfus Spring in Iceland
• pH: 8.4 (alkaline)
• Notable minerals: Low mineral content overall

4. Acqua Panna Natural Spring Water

Acqua Panna is known for its velvety smooth taste and well-balanced mineral content. It’s particularly rich in calcium and magnesium, both essential for muscle and nerve function.

• Source: Tuscany, Italy
• pH: 8.0 (slightly alkaline)
• Notable minerals: Calcium, magnesium, silica

5. Voss Artesian Water

Voss water is known for its purity, with very low levels of total dissolved solids. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking for clean, crisp-tasting water.

• Source: Artesian aquifer in Norway
• pH: 7.5 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
• Notable minerals: Low TDS (Total Dissolved Solids)

Environmental Considerations

While focusing on health is important, it’s equally crucial to consider the environmental impact of bottled water consumption. The bottled water industry has been criticized for contributing to plastic waste and carbon emissions. The process of making a water bottle releases 2.5 million tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere every year.

However, many companies are making strides in sustainability:

• Recycled materials: Brands like Evian have committed to using 100% recycled plastic in their bottles by 2025.
• Reduced plastic: Some companies are exploring alternative packaging materials, such as aluminum cans or plant-based plastics.
• Carbon neutrality: Icelandic Glacial, for instance, is the first bottled water to be certified as carbon neutral, offsetting its emissions through various environmental projects.

As a consumer, you can minimize your environmental impact by choosing brands with strong sustainability practices and properly recycling your bottles. Better yet, consider using a reusable water bottle and filling it with filtered tap water when possible.

Expert Opinions and Research

We’ve looked at the best bottled water to drink for health. While the water industry makes various health claims, it’s important to look at what experts and scientific research say:

• Mineral intake: A study published in the National Library of Medicine found that mineral-rich waters can indeed contribute significantly to calcium and magnesium intake.
• Alkaline water: According to the Mayo Clinic, while alkaline water can help prevent heart disease or cancer, more research is needed to verify many of its health claims.
• Hydration effectiveness: A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found no significant difference in beverage hydration index (BHI) between various beverages.

When considering the best bottled water to drink for your health, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional about your specific hydration needs, particularly if you have any health conditions.

Tips for Choosing and Storing Bottled Water

To assist you in selecting the safest bottled water that aligns with your health and taste preferences, here are some practical tips:

• Read the label: Look for information on the water source, mineral content, and any treatment processes.
• Check the pH: If you’re interested in alkaline water, look for brands that clearly state their pH level.
• Consider the bottle: Choose BPA-free plastic or glass bottles to avoid potential chemical leaching.
• Store properly: Keep bottled water in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight or heat.
• Check the expiration date: While water doesn’t “go bad,” the bottle can degrade over time, potentially affecting water quality.

Staying Hydrated, Staying Healthy

As we’ve explored in this comprehensive guide, choosing the healthiest and safest bottled water involves considering various factors—from mineral content and pH levels to environmental impact and cost. While brands like Fiji, Evian, and Icelandic Glacial stand out for their quality and mineral content, the best choice for you will depend on your personal health goals, taste preferences, and budget.

Remember, staying hydrated is one of the most important factors for your health. Water controls body temperature, keeps joints slippery, stops infections, takes food to cells, and helps organs work properly. Whether you choose premium bottled water, sparkling water, or opt for filtered tap water, the key is to drink enough throughout the day. As we age, proper hydration becomes even more crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being.

By understanding what makes water “healthy” and being aware of the options available, you’re now equipped to make informed decisions about your drinking water. So the next time you find yourself facing that wall of water bottles, you can confidently choose the option that best suits your needs.

Here’s to your health—may your glass (or bottle) always be at least half full!