Here is a shocking fact: 75% of American citizens are dehydrated. It’s hard to believe. The United States is one of the wealthiest countries in the western hemisphere. We have access to the cleanest water in the world. We are the most literate people with ease of access to the Internet than most other countries are envious of. And yet, when it comes to one of the most important health decisions we can make, we balk. The average human being requires at least eight pints of water a day (if not more) to avoid the detrimental state of dehydration. Some minor health effects of dehydration include fatigue, dizziness, dry lips and throat, and even some cognitive issues. Left untreated, dehydration can lead to even more serious illnesses like urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and even kidney failure. All of this is from simply ignoring a very basic human need.

Another reason why Americans are dehydrated is because we drink everything except water. We drink sodas, coffee, caffeinated teas, alcohol, artificially sweetened juices and energy drinks, all of which completely dehydrate us. Just because it’s a liquid doesn’t mean it’s any good for us. Sports drinks can be helpful if you’re planning on exercising at higher than normal levels for more than an hour. They contain carbohydrates and electrolytes that can increase your energy. They also help your body absorb water. However, some sports drinks are high in calories from added sugar. This does not help. 

Energy drinks are not the same as sports drinks. Energy drinks usually contain a large amount of caffeine. Also, they have ingredients that overstimulate you (guarana, ginseng, or taurine). These are things your body doesn’t need.

There is a solution, however, that most people don’t take into consideration: 

Mineral Water. 

We took a deep dive to investigate all of the surprisingly secret health benefits of mineral water. 

The presence of naturally occurring minerals provides mineral water with a very distinctive taste. Most mineral waters are also additionally carbonated for one’s drinking pleasure, making it a great alternative to sodas (if you’re addicted to the fizz). Sparkling mineral water also makes you feel fuller, which can stop us from indulging in unneeded snacks. Sulfates can increase your metabolism has no calories whatsoever. No who can argue with that?

The increased levels of magnesium have been proven to lower our blood pressure, which we all need in these trying times, especially post-pandemic. Anything that can calm our stress levels down is a plus. 

In one 2014 study, researchers evaluated the effects of mineral water on subjects who all had borderline hypertension (high blood pressure) as well as low levels of calcium and magnesium. After four weeks of drinking mineral water, they noted a significant decrease in these people’s blood pressure.

Now, this is important for our mature readers. A glass of mineral water a day helps to suppress swelling in joints, as the minerals themselves are a natural anti-inflammatory. It is an excellent source of potassium which leads to improved memory and alertness. Mineral water also has been proven to relieve symptoms of constipation. For people with dyspeptic indigestion, carbonated mineral water can decrease constipation as well as significantly improve its symptoms. As an added benefit, it can improve gallbladder function. The magnesium and calcium found in mineral water reduce the formation of kidney stones. Sparkling versions of mineral water are bottled at an optimal pH level for your body, thanks to the presence of sodium bicarbonate.

So in the end, if those eight glasses of water don’t excite you, then try this healthy alternative to the sugar-filled and dehydrating beverages our fellow countrymen are addicted to. Be the change you want to see in the world and spread the word about these secret benefits of mineral water.

Ready to test our claim? Try Phocus, a tasty mineral-water option without any political messaging. Find even more Align-approved food and beverage options in the Guide.