by Christine Roberts

Created on: July 08, 2010

A mineral by nutritional definition is any of the inorganic elements, such as calcium, iron, potassium, or sodium, that are essential to the functioning of the human body and are obtained from these sources.

Water by definition is a transparent, odorless, tasteless liquid, a compound of hydrogen and oxygen, H 2 O, freezing at 32°F or 0°C and boiling at 212°F or 100°C, that in a more or less impure state constitutes rain, oceans, lakes, rivers, etc.: it contains 11.188 percent hydrogen and 88.812 percent oxygen, by weight.

Mineral Water as defined by The American Heritage Dictionary is water naturally occurring or prepared water that contains dissolved mineral salts, elements, or gases often used therapeutically.

The unique attribution to mineral water is that it contains dissolved organic substances and minerals that give it a heightened flavor and fresh odour. Minerals in the water also give it added therapeutic properties. Substances that have dissolved in the water can include different salts and sulfur compounds. There are both sparkling and still mineral waters.

Throughout history waters with high mineral concentrations were utalized at their source or watering hole. Many cities built spas and tourist attractions around them.

Today many mineral waters are bottled and sold with their locations being owned exclusively by commercial rights. When seeking out a good source for bottled mineral water ones work is cut out for them as there are over 3,000 brands available for consumers in the world.

To be classified as a mineral water by the F.D.A the said water must have at least 250 parts per million total dissolved solids and originate from a physically and geographically sound underground location. Hard mineral water has more total dissolved solid minerals and soft mineral water has less.

Some research suggests mineral water benefits people because it is more readily and easily absorbed by the body compared with the mineral content of some foods. Minerals are absolutely essential for the body to thrive especially ones the body does not naturally produce. Minerals carry electrical impulses throughout the body because of their negative and positve molecules regulating and balancing the bodies nervous system, transportation of  nutrients and ensuring proper muscle functioning. Mineral water can also benefit the body by supporting the immune system to function optimally allowing it to better fend off harmful bacteria and fungi.

Consumption of fresh spring mineral water has been reported by users to reduce joint and muscle pain, swelling, and aching aswell as hasten detoxification in the body.

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