Tap vs. Bottled Water: What's Best for Your Health and the Planet?

Every day, we face a simple yet significant choice: tap or bottled water. This isn't just about quenching your thirst—it's about making a decision that impacts your health and the environment. We'll break down the pros and cons and arm you with tips to ensure your water is as pure and safe as possible.

The Case for Tap Water

Tap water comes straight from your local water system, which is subject to frequent, more rigorous testing in many places than bottled water. It's the unsung hero in hydration—economical and with a lower carbon footprint than bottled water. It often contains essential minerals like Calcium and Magnesium, which are beneficial for bone and nerve health. However, chlorine, used to disinfect tap water, can concern some. While generally safe, it can affect the taste and, at very high levels, has been debated in terms of health impacts.

The Draw of Bottled Water

Bottled water appeals to consumers because of its convenience and perceived purity. Its taste can also be a draw, as some brands use filtration processes to improve flavor. A 2018 Ecowatch report suggested that up to 64% of bottled water comes from local municipal sources! Yep, you read that correctly: a significant portion of bottled water is the same as your tap water, only more expensive and heavier to unload from the car.

Moreover, plastic bottles are not just an environmental hazard; they can sometimes leach chemicals into the water, especially if exposed to heat or stored for a long time.

Navigating the Waters - Tips for Purifying Tap Water

For tap water enthusiasts looking to elevate their experience, a carbon filter can remove chlorine and improve taste. Ultraviolet light purifiers and reverse osmosis systems do more by eradicating bacteria and viruses and filtering out heavy metals and pesticides. Remember, purifying tap water can be as simple as letting it sit in an open container for a few hours, allowing the chlorine to evaporate.

Decoding Bottled Water - Understanding Labels and Avoiding Imitations

If you prefer bottled water, at least read the labels. They are not all created equal. 'Mineral water comes from a mineral spring and contains natural minerals. 'Artesian water comes from a well tapping a confined aquifer. Labels boasting 'mountain water' are often marketing strategies rather than quality indicators.

Be vigilant for terms like 'BPA-free' and 'phthalate-free' because they indicate the bottle is less likely to contaminate the water with these chemicals.

The choice between tap and bottled water isn't just about taste or convenience—for some of us, it is about our well-being and environmental responsibility. Whether you choose the simplicity of tap or the practicality of bottled, ensure you're making an informed decision. Nearly half of the bottled water you find in stores comes from the same place as your tap water. So, next time you're about to grab a bottle off the shelf, take a minute to check out where it really comes from and what you're paying for.

Hydrate wisely and sustainably, and let every sip contribute positively to your health and the world.

A functional blood chemical analysis is a painless way to learn what your body is trying to tell you. Call me at 470-290-8025 or email office@drsusanmonias.com to request a consult. Just start. Get powerful; get smarter about how your body is functioning.