Types of Water – Uses, Pros, and Cons

One of the most important elements needed for human survival and sustenance, water is a resource found in different forms. It is important you know all about the types of water so you can segregate between what’s safe and what’s not. It is a key resource for survival, so drinking unsafe water can be detrimental to health.

Our bodies are also made of 70% water, so maintaining that balance is crucial. Most of this water ends up leaving our bodies in the form of sweat and urine, which is why you always need to remain hydrated. Drinking clean water allows your body to carry out various important functions, including aiding in digestion, fighting bacteria, carrying the various nutrients to and from the cells, maintaining the sodium balance and more.

Different Types of Water

Water is generally distinguished based on consistency, treatment, composition and origin. There are so many different types of water, segregated according to consistency and quality. Here we presenting the most commonly used forms:

1. Tap Water

One of the most common forms of water is tap water. You can get tap water straight from your faucet and, depending on where you are, it may or may not be suitable to drink directly from.

While tap water is not safe for drinking in India, it can still be used for other purposes.

Advantages 

Tap water can be used for household purposes and this includes cleaning, gardening, cooking and washing clothes amongst others. Local municipal bodies, however, have regulations where the quality of water must pass before being released for consumption.

Also, tap water is one of the cheapest and most easily available forms of water in the country.

Disadvantages

There are plenty of regulations which keep harmful substances out of water. These can include lead and disinfectants but sometimes, the regulations aren’t enough. This can lead to illnesses and other long-term effects on health. In some cases, there has been the presence of plastic particles in tap water sources across the world.

Public water from the municipality can contain residues of pesticides and aluminium, making it harmful to consume. If you’re planning to use tap water for cooking purposes, then it is always advised to check with your water supplier regarding any safety concerns you might have. It is also advised to get your own water purification system if possible, to ensure that your water is cleansed entirely before you use it to clean food.

2. Mineral Water

Mineral water is another popular form of water that is consumed by people all over the world. This is considered a safe option for consumption as the water is put through different purification methods before it is finally given to the public to consume.

Advantages

The biggest advantage of mineral water is that it comes packed with essential nutrients and minerals that keep your body healthy and fighting fit. These nutrients can include the likes of calcium, magnesium, sulphur and more, which are essential for the day-to-day functioning of the body’s various systems.

Another advantage of mineral water is that is provides your body with the necessary resources with which you’ll be able to keep fit. The added minerals play a role in aiding digestion, allowing you to break down your food much better. A lot of people also prefer the taste of mineral water as it has a small tinge of sweetness to it. It is one of the best types of drinking water available.

Disadvantages

One of the main drawbacks of mineral water is the fact that it costs much more than normal tap water. Tap water is available for free in many households. Also, if you do maintain a balanced and controlled diet, you will be able to get the necessary nutrients that your body requires.

3. Glacier or Springs

Spring or glacier water is another one among the unique varieties of water available all across the world. It is also considered the purest form of water. Some manufacturers even claim that their water is bottled right at the source. In India, this source is in the form of a glacier or spring and they are found mainly in the northern part of the country – especially the Himalayas.

Advantages

Glacier water is considered to be a pure form of water as it is collected right at the source. This water type is believed to be free of toxins as well as being relatively clean. It also contains the necessary minerals that your body requires, sometimes more than that of mineral water.

Spring water is also easily available in stores across the world, with well-known brands such as Arrowhead and Evian providing water in both small and large quantities, making them easily accessible for those who want to upgrade.

Disadvantages

Price is a major concern for spring or glacier water when compared to tap water and mineral water. It is also important that you check if the source of water is dependable. Some knockoff brands post health risks by adding harmful contaminants within the water.

4. Sparkling Water

Sparkling water is also referred to as soda water or carbonated water as it is made by infusing water with CO₂ gas under pressure.

Advantages

Sparkling water tastes completely different from normal water, by giving you a fizzy taste, which is great to have on a hot day. If you dislike artificial sweeteners used in soft drinks, then sparkling water is the best alternative to consume.

You can also find flavoured sparkling water that can be purchased. Most of them throw in health-promoting minerals as well.

Disadvantages

While the minerals present in sparkling water are good, they aren’t enough to satisfy your required input. They are also expensive compared to packaged drinking water, so it is better to have it occasionally.

5. Distilled Water

Distilled water is formed by evaporating normal water and then condensing it back from steam to a liquid state. Most of the compounds in the water tend to dissipate into the air when they are boiled, leaving behind a residue of water that is devoid of any additives.

Advantages

Distilled water is generally used in automobiles to cool engines down as it does not have any added compounds within them. They are also used to top off lead-acid batteries found in trucks and other vehicles.

Disadvantages

Since distilled water does not have any minerals added to it, it does not have any health benefits. It can also be harmful to the body and pulls minerals from wherever it can.

6. Purified Water

Purified water is one of the types of groundwater as this is generally extracted and treated to ensure that it is safe for consumption. The process to make purified water kills off substances such as parasites, fungi and bacteria.

Advantages

Purified water is a great option if any immediate water source tends to be contaminated. There are many countries across the world, which generally purify tap water, making it safe for direct consumption.

Disadvantages 

As harmful substances are removed from the water, one of the substances added to aid the process is fluoride. While okay in small quantities, excess of fluoride can cause issues such as tooth decay within the body.

Purchasing purified water or installing systems at home can also be expensive.

7. Alkaline Water

Generally, alkaline water tends to have a higher level of pH compared to tap water and contains negative oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) and alkaline minerals.

Advantages

Alkaline water is believed to neutralize the acid within the body and helps slow the ageing process, though this hasn’t been proven yet.

Disadvantage

Drinking alkaline water is safe as it can reduce stomach acidity and kills off any harmful bacteria. However, when consumed in excess, it can cause vomiting and nausea.

8. Well Water

Well water is taken straight from the ground and is a common source of water in many rural areas in the country.

Advantages

Having your own source of fresh water is always a great option and can help you access it whenever you need it.

Disadvantages 

As well water comes from the ground, it can mix with bacteria and be harmful to consume directly. If it isn’t put through any purifying methods, it can cause difficulties for your health.

Water comes in many different forms. It is important that you choose a source that is not just safe for consumption but is also suitable for the various activities you have planned.

References/Resources:

1. Zeratsky. K; Is alkaline water better for you than plain water?; https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/alkaline-water/faq-20058029

2. Water Treatment; CDC; https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/drinking/public/water_treatment.html

3. Quattrini. S, Pampaloni. B, Brandi. ML; Natural mineral waters: chemical characteristics and health effects; Clin Cases Miner Bone Metab.; PubMed Central; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5318167/; February 2017

4. Postman. A; The Truth About Tap; NRDC; https://www.nrdc.org/stories/truth-about-tap; January 2016

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Amazing Benefits of Drinking Hot Water
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