The Differences Among Distilled, Spring, Mineral and Drinking Water

Drinking water is necessary for the body to survive and good clean water is key. To reach my daily allowance of water I drink bottled water. I've purchased bottled distilled, spring and mineral water to drink. Perhaps you have as well. So what's the difference among distilled, spring, mineral and drinking water? Here's information on each type so you can choose the best water for you.

Distilled Water. The impurities in this water are removed through the process of distillation, which is boiling the water and leaving the impurities behind. The water is boiled to a steam and then condensed back to water. Distilled water has had some criticism though because while the impurities are removed during boiling also are minerals that are important to a person's dietary intake. These missing minerals include calcium, sodium and magnesium. It also lacks fluoride which is important to keeping your teeth healthy and ward off cavities. Despite the lack of minerals it isn't uncommon to drink distilled water. It is best used to make coffee and tea because it is free of the mineral flavor.

Spring Water. Unlike distilled water spring water contains minerals important to one's dietary intake. The water is bottled by tapping the underground source at the spring. Hence the name spring water. It is naturally filtered. This water is also good for coffee and tea because of its quality taste. The price of spring water can vary depending on the location of the spring.

Mineral Water. Mineral water contains a variety of minerals including iron, potassium, magnesium, silica and chromium. The minerals can also change the taste of the water. You may notice there is sometimes a difference in tastes between various brands of mineral water. After the water is collected at its source additional minerals can't be added.

Drinking Water. The term drinking water means that is meant for humans to drink. There are various methods the water can be prepared including distillation. Drinking water meets the standards for consumption including being calorie-free and no added sweeteners. It may have fewer minerals than spring or mineral water.