Mineral Water & Weight Loss
Mineral water can keep your health level from diminishing while losing weight. Mineral water offers more nutrients and taste than standard pure water. Some prefer this beverage as part of the weight loss regime. Check with your doctor before starting any new weight loss program. If you have a compromised health system, check with your doctor before including mineral water in your weight loss program.
A man in a black t-shirt pours mineral water into his glass. (Image: alempkht/iStock/Getty Images)Low Calories
Mineral water contains zero calories. Calorie counting is an important part of any weight loss program. Drinking mineral water instead of higher-calorie beverages, such as shakes, milk, sweetened juices or sugary sodas, will save on calories, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A large 20-ounce sugar-sweetened soda, for instance, can contain 247 calories.
Identification
Mineral water can be identified by the product label. Only bottled water containing more than 250 parts per million of total dissolved solids can legally be labeled as mineral water, according to FineWaters.com. The water's mineral and trace elements stay constant from the water's source to bottle. Added minerals are not allowed. Water containing less than 500 parts per million must be identified as "low mineral content." "High mineral content" must be stated for water containing more than 1,500 parts per million.
Extra Nourishment
Mineral water can provide numerous needed nutrients while losing weight. Mineral water commonly contains magnesium, calcium, sulfate, potassium, silica and sodium. Minerals play a role in regulating heart beat and muscle contractions, keeping bones strong, transmitting muscle and nerve impulses, detoxifying the liver and assisting in digestion, according to FineWaters.com. The bicarbonate found in sparking mineral waters will help maintain your body's pH balance level.
Cardiovascular Effect
Mineral waters containing silica can aid with cardiovascular health by reducing risk of heart disease, according to FineWaters.com. Obesity, or being overweight, is a leading risk factor for developing heart disease, according to the American Heart Association. Silica's antioxidant properties help repair damaged tissues throughout the body. The average body needs between 20 and 30 milligrams daily to operate properly. Mineral water can contain up to 20 milligrams per bottle.
Caution
Mineral water consumption needs to be monitored during weight loss. Excessive fluid consumption can be harmful. Drinking too much water can cause an electrolyte imbalance and seep sodium from your body, according to Dr. Ben Kim. Your recommended water limit depends upon your health status, climate and activity level. Some medical conditions, such as liver and kidney disease, require limited fluid intake.
Hydration
Exercise needs to be included in any successful weight loss program. Exercise burns calories, thereby speeding up your weight loss results, according to MedlinePlus.com. Drinking mineral water during and after exercise sessions will keep you properly hydrated. Dehydration can cause tiredness and lack of energy. Water can flush toxins from your body and keep your body tissues lubricated. Water can help replace lost fluids caused by breathing and sweating.
