The healthiest bottled water to drink is typically spring water or mineral water, rich in essential minerals and low in contaminants, ensuring optimal hydration.
Choosing the healthiest bottled water involves more than grabbing the first bottle you see. The best options provide essential minerals, maintain proper pH balance, and come in safe packaging. This guide explores top brands and what makes them stand out.
Key Factors in Healthy Bottled Water
Not all bottled waters are created equal. These factors determine which brands offer real health benefits:
Mineral Content
Natural spring and mineral waters contain calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These support bone health, muscle function, and hydration. Brands like Mountain Valley and Gerolsteiner excel here.
pH Level
Alkaline waters (pH above 7) may help neutralize body acidity. Essentia and Flow Alkaline are top choices, though research on benefits remains ongoing.
Purification Process
Reverse osmosis and distillation remove contaminants while preserving minerals. Smartwater and Aquafina use advanced filtration methods.
Packaging Safety
BPA-free glass or aluminum prevents chemical leaching. Brands like Voss and Fiji prioritize safe containers.
Top 5 Healthiest Bottled Water Brands
| Brand | Source | Key Minerals | pH Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mountain Valley | Ouachita Mountains, Arkansas | Calcium, Magnesium | 7.3-7.5 |
| Gerolsteiner | Volcanic Eifel region, Germany | Calcium, Magnesium, Bicarbonate | 5.9 |
| Fiji | Artesian aquifer, Fiji | Silica, Calcium | 7.7 |
| Essentia | Municipal sources (purified) | Added electrolytes | 9.5 |
| Voss | Underground aquifer, Norway | Natural minerals | 6.0 |
1. Mountain Valley Spring Water
Sourced since 1871 from protected springs in Arkansas. Contains balanced minerals ideal for daily hydration. Available in glass bottles to avoid plastic contaminants.
2. Gerolsteiner Sparkling Mineral Water
Naturally carbonated with high mineral content. One liter provides 25% of daily calcium needs. The slightly salty taste comes from beneficial electrolytes.
3. Fiji Natural Artesian Water
Filtered through volcanic rock for high silica content. Silica supports collagen production and skin health. Bottled at the source to preserve purity.
Environmental Considerations
While bottled water offers convenience and quality, environmental impact matters. These brands lead in sustainability:
- Boxed Water: Uses 92% plant-based cartons
- Liquid Death: Aluminum cans with 100% recycling rate
- Eden Springs: Glass bottles from 100% recycled materials
According to EPA data, aluminum and glass have much higher recycling rates than plastic bottles.
Specialty Waters for Specific Needs
For Athletes
Smartwater and Core Hydration add electrolytes lost during exercise. Their vapor distillation process removes impurities while maintaining hydration benefits.
For Digestion
Gerolsteiner and S.Pellegrino’s natural carbonation can aid digestion. The bicarbonate content helps neutralize stomach acid.
For Alkaline Diet Followers
Essentia (pH 9.5) and Flow Alkaline (pH 8.1) support alkaline diets. While research is limited, many report reduced acid reflux symptoms.
What to Avoid in Bottled Water
Steer clear of waters with:
- Added sugars or artificial flavors
- BPA plastics (look for #7 recycling code)
- High sodium content (over 20mg per serving)
- “Purified” waters with no mineral content
The FDA regulates bottled water but allows some additives. Always check labels for unnecessary ingredients.
