Types of water

2004/06/01 Lorenzo, Arantza | Uranga, Ane Miren Iturria: Elhuyar aldizkaria

• Dietetika/Elikagaiak

This is the table for the right aligned photos

It is very important to maintain a balance between the water we introduce and expel so that all the processes of the body are performed correctly. We eliminate water by breathing, sweating, urine and feces, among others, and to recover these losses it is recommended to take about two liters of water a day. This water can be obtained through drinks (water, juices, infusions...) and certain foods, mainly fruits and vegetables.

We know that in addition to the running water we drink daily, there are certain types of water that are used as a cure for diseases. XVII. The first initiatives for the packaging of curative mineral water began in the nineteenth century, although they were not marketed until the following century. In the nineteenth century some sources became important, since its waters began to be considered as healing. Since then, several studies have confirmed the advantages of mineral waters.

The composition of water is related to the geological characteristics of the soil and, in particular, to the degree of mineralization of the rocks found in the spring. In general, the mineral salts present in the water are calcium, magnesium, sodium, chlorine and fluoride. In addition to these mineral salts, some waters may contain gas. Considering all this, different types of water with multiple properties are sold.

With a
minimum content of 150 mg/liter of calcium. They can help people with osteoporosis problems.

With a
minimum of 50 mg/l of magnesium.

Fluorinated With
a minimum of 1 mg/l of fluoride. They are used to prevent dental and bone problems.

Chloride is the
main anion in this type of water, with sodium, calcium and magnesium being the most abundant cations. Depending on the degree of mineralization they are used in different ways, in some cases for drinking and in others for baths. Recommended for rheumatological, dermatological and respiratory problems.

This is the table for photos that align to the left

Bicarbonates predominate
in anions and, in general, the degree of mineralization is 1 g/liter. This type of water is recommended to facilitate the flow of enzymes in the area and reduce heartburn.

When the
free carbon concentration is higher than
250 mg/l. The
intake of this type of water facilitates gastric fluidity of the stomach and intestinal mobility. Recommended in case of constipation. Bathing in these waters produces the dispersion of blood vessels, so in some cases they are beneficial for the arts.

Low mineralization Those
we normally use in meals. Its degree of mineralization ranges from 50-500 mg/l. The diuretic would be included in this group, recommended for people with kidney problems such as stones. Low mineralization water is suitable for the preparation of infant bottles, especially in the first months, when the kidney is not fully developed.

Iron waters
contain 1 mg/l or more. They are used in cases of anemia.

When we go to buy some kind of water of this type, the label should inform:

If it is natural mineral water or curable mineral.
Name of the spring where the water has been collected and town and province where it is located.
Results of the analysis carried out and date of performance of the same.

1. Specific characteristics according to the law: what diseases are used to prevent and treat.

However, medicinal waters should always be used under the control and care of a doctor. Before use it is essential to know precisely the diseases and body characteristics of the patient. On the one hand, what can benefit, on the other, can cause harm.

Fluoride

Fluoride is a natural element that we find in the earth and in almost all the water potable, although the amount can vary a lot from one water to another.

Fluoride is very important for our body, especially for its function in the bones and in the enamel of the teeth, avoiding cavities. In the last 20-25 years this disease has decreased by 50%, since that was when fluoride began to be incorporated into the water.

To avoid bone and dental problems it is advisable to take daily, among others, the following amounts of fluoride*:

The main sources of fluoride are drinking water (especially when it is fluorinated) and fruits and vegetables that grow in fluoride rich soil. Seafood is also rich in fluoride, and saltwater fish generally contain more fluoride than freshwater fish.

However, fluoride can be harmful if abused. As a result, fluorosis occurs, appearing on the teeth spots in which, although initially the damage is purely aesthetic, a prolonged ingestion of fluoride can produce dental scales that make the problem more serious.