< previous page | page_46 | next page >
Page 46
| Water Wisdom |
| These days, choosing water is nearly as complicated as choosing wine. Here's the lowdown on the healthiest options: |
| Mineral water comes from a single underground source, is required by law to be free of harmful bacteria and chemicals, and must maintain a consistent mineral content. It can be filtered and exposed to ultraviolet light, but it cannot be disinfected or sterilized in any other way. It can be sparkling or still. |
| Mineral water is your best bet because it's carefully monitored for purity; it's consistently good-tasting; and it contains health-enhancing nutrients including calcium and magnesium, albeit in tiny amounts. But be aware that it also contains sodium; some brands have more than others. If you have high blood pressure or heart disease, check the label. |
| Spring and table water may come from a spring or from a tap connected to your area's water systembottlers are not required to identify the source, and they often mix water from different sources. These waters need to meet the standards set for tap water; beyond that, there are no requirements, so bottlers can do what they want. Beware, too, of restaurant bottled water, which is often just filtered tap water sold at outrageous prices. |
| Filtered tap water, therefore, may be just as good a bet, and it's certainly cheaper. Filtering the water will eliminate any unpleasant chlorine taste; another option is boiling, then chilling your water. Still, the fact that nearly all tap water is recycled (over and over) and is often contaminated by chemicals that seep into the ground makes many people opt for bottled water. Remember, buy mineral water, or you may be paying a premium for the same stuff. |
| and excretion. By the time you experience thirst, your body is already dehydrated. So don't wait until you feel thirsty to drink water; rather, make water intake a habit. |
| You should strive to drink a minimum of 64 ounces of water (8 cups) a day. You can also replenish a certain amount of water by drinking other liquids, such as fruit juices, and eating fruits and vegetablescucumbers, watermelons, and other juicy choices. |
< previous page | page_46 | next page >