Regular Water Versus Vitamin Water

By Alison McLaughlin, RD, MPH

When did healthy and pure tap water become less appealing than vitamin water?

Is it the clear colour of water that doesn’t excite people? Or maybe the taste? Regardless of the reason, water makes up the majority of our body weight and we owe it to ourselves to replenish our bodies with what it naturally needs, in its most natural form.

Consuming enough fluids throughout the day is crucial for overall health. Fluid requirements are different for everyone, but generally, men require roughly 3 Liters per day (12 cups), and women require roughly 2.2 liters per day (9 cups). Increasing your understanding of the many health benefits may expose water as the best choice when compared to vitamin water products.

The vitamin water products available on the market may appear to be a healthy or a superior option to regular bottled or tap water, but this is simply not the case. One bottle of vitamin water (591 ml) contains approximately as much sugar as 36 jellybeans, 2½ chocolate covered donuts or 1 chocolate bar! This is a lot of unnecessary sugar added to your daily food intake. Bottom line: there is no better alternative to water.

Here are just some of the health benefits of water:

• Weight loss/maintenance: Drinking water throughout the day or during a meal promotes feelings of fullness and helps your body to function at its best.
• Reduces your risk of infection: Drinking water can reduce your risk of getting infections and developing kidney stones.
• Maintains energy levels: Water supports our bodies with functions that remove toxins and waste products.
• Hydrates our skin: Water provides moisture to our skin, preventing it from becoming dry and irritated.
• Supports joints and muscles: Adequate water helps to reduce muscle cramps, fatigue, and lubricates our joints.
• Prevents constipation: Everybody has to go! But drinking enough water helps to soften stools, making for an easier experience.

For more specific information and tips on how to stay hydrated click here!