Water is very important in this world. Water takes up about 71% of the earth. About 60% of the human body contains water. In some places, water is scarce, while it is abundant in others. Although water is naturally occurring and can be found in rivers, lakes, and seas, there are multiple sources to extract it from underground.
Always check the TDS of your drinking water. Both spring water and purified water can be considered safe and good for health, but keep in mind their sources and how they are treated.
Before you choose which is better for you between spring water and purified water, you must know everything you need to know. The difference between them is in their components, origin, taste, treatments, regulations, and accessibility. Get ready to dive into a detailed explanation of everything to help you decide which water suits your body. Here are some details about springs and purified water:
Spring Water
The rainwater recharges the aquifers. This creates pressure, which forces the water already there to move through the cracks and holes underground. This water then naturally proceeds to the surface at sites called springs. Spring water is generally sourced from these aquifers. This water is considered pure as it does not undergo chlorination or fluorination. Although it contains minerals like calcium and magnesium, which are considered good for healthy bones and keeping the body hydrated, the level of minerals present in spring water may differ according to the different sources from which it is sourced. Some spring water may even contain heavy metals and many pathogens that can negatively impact health if it is not treated and cleaned properly.
Purified Water
The impure and contaminated water undergoes cleaning methods such as filtration, reverse osmosis, distillation, and others to remove pollutants, heavy metals, and contaminants such as bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. There is a high demand for highly purified water in many industries, mainly pharmaceuticals. Purified water is consistently considered safe and is preferred by people for drinking.
Spring Water vs. Purified Water: Which to Choose?
Choosing between spring water and purified water depends on personal choices and requirements, especially the TDS of drinking water. Spring water is preferred if you have faith in the source and like the taste of natural mineral water. However, if you do not want your drinking water to be possibly contaminated, which can harm you and make you vulnerable to waterborne diseases, purified water is a better option.
Certain factors will help you choose between spring water and tap water
Cost: Depending on the origin and brand, the cost of spring water and purified water can vary. Usually, spring water is more expensive than purified water as a result of its derivation and bottling processes. Purified water is more feasible due to its abundance.
Taste: There are natural minerals and elements present in spring water, and as a result, people prefer its fresher flavor over purified water. However, some people prefer the taste of purified water, which is plain, cleaner, and without any added odors or flavors.
Health benefits: Health-wise, both spring water and purified water help in the hydration of the body. Even if spring water is rich in natural minerals and elements and provides additional health benefits to the body, this can also be attained through certain dietary sources. In addition, some companies add the required minerals to purified water, like calcium and potassium.
Regulations: In most countries, municipalities ensure to regulate both spring water and purified water to meet the considered standards. In the United States, purified water is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and spring water is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This is done to ensure the safety of the water and make it fit for drinking.
Accessibility: Purified water has widespread availability and is easily produced and transported to different areas. Spring water is not always within reach in all locations because it is derived from natural springs.
pH level: pH has a big role to play in the taste and health coverage of water. The pH level is generally between 6.5 and 8.5 for spring water, which is regarded as slightly basic and can help counterbalance acidity in the body. The pH level is neutral in purified water, which may not provide the same basic benefits as spring water. Also, properly check the TDS in drinking water.
Packaging: The packaging of spring water and purified water can also be a consideration. Purified water can contribute to plastic waste, and its transportation can severely impact the environment. Many brands of purified water are now offering eco-friendly packaging options in the wake of increasing non-biodegradable waste piling up and using water filtration methods at home to help lessen the need for bottled purified water.
Home filtration: Using a filtration system at home can be a convenient way to access clean and safe drinking water. Home filtration systems can help remove extra impurities from tap water, providing a similar level of purity to purified water. This option is also beneficial for reducing waste and minimizing the environmental impact of drinking water.
Conclusion
Whichever water you choose, always check whether the TDS of drinking water is between 50 and 150 and aim to stay hydrated and healthy. Adults are recommended to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day. The weather has a huge role to play in staying hydrated, as in the summer we are more thirsty and need cold water, but in the winter we require comparatively less water and a normal temperature.
Overall, the choice between spring water and purified water ultimately depends on personal preference, health concerns, and environmental considerations. People may prefer purified water over spring water to save time and money, but drinking purified water regularly may not have a positive impact on the human body as the body may not get an adequate amount of minerals and elements. Certain lesser-known companies that do not treat water properly generally target areas where water is scarce. It is advised to purchase purified water from authorized companies. You can also boil the water if you feel it is not clean, whether it is purified water or spring water. Regardless of the type of water you choose, it is important to drink water regularly to stay hydrated and healthy.
