Drinking water can contain a variety of minerals, such as calcium (Ca2+), magnesium (Mg2+) and sodium (Na+). In North America, the consumption of bottled water has increased due to growing concerns about the components of tap water potentially having adverse health effects. To determine if North American tap water contains clinically important levels of Ca2+, Mg2+ and Na+, and to determine if the differences in the mineral content of tap water and commercially available bottled waters are clinically important, mineral analysis reports were obtained from municipal water authorities in 21 major cities in North America. Physicians should advise their patients to check the mineral content of drinking water, whether it is tap or bottled, and to choose the most appropriate water for their needs.
Calcium intake is essential at all ages, but it is especially important during childhood, fetal growth, pregnancy and breastfeeding. Studies have examined the relationship between exposure to trace elements and the onset of osteoporosis. Additionally, Mg2+ has been linked to an inverse relationship between Mg2+ intake and the occurrence of ischemic heart disease, cardiac arrhythmias and sudden death. The population consumes less than the daily requirement of Mg2+ and many people ingest less than 80% of the recommended level.
Sodium intake generally exceeds recommended limits and has been estimated to range between 4,000 and 6,000 mg per day. Numerous studies have shown that a high intake of Na+ is associated with the onset of hypertension. One out of every five households in North America now uses bottled drinking water, and in the United States, annual per capita consumption of bottled water increased from less than 8 gallons in 1991 to nearly 11 gallons in 1996. Because drinking water can be a major source of mineral intake, the shift from tap water to bottled water can have significant implications for health and disease. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) imposes strict water treatment standards under the authority of the Safe Drinking Water Act.
Maximum levels of primary pollutants (MCL) have been established to regulate levels of arsenic, cyanide, mercury, chromium and other chemicals associated with public health risks. The maximum levels of secondary pollutants (SMCL) have also been established to regulate the aesthetics of tap water and are related to factors such as alkalinity, temperature,... It is essential for people to be aware of the average potassium content in bottled water in Central Minnesota. Potassium is an essential mineral that helps regulate blood pressure, muscle contractions, nerve signals, and heart rhythm.
It also helps maintain fluid balance in cells and helps keep bones strong. The average potassium content in bottled water in Central Minnesota varies depending on where it is sourced from. Generally speaking, bottled waters sourced from surface waters such as lakes or rivers tend to have higher potassium levels than those sourced from groundwater sources such as wells. The EPA regulates drinking water quality by setting maximum contaminant levels for certain minerals including potassium.
The EPA also sets standard methods for testing drinking water quality as well as analytical methods for determining compliance with chemical and microbiological contaminants in drinking water. It is important for people to be aware of these regulations when choosing a bottled water source as some may contain higher levels of potassium than others. In addition to checking for EPA regulations when choosing a bottled water source, it is also important for people to be aware of their own dietary needs when it comes to potassium intake. People who are on a low-sodium diet may want to choose a bottled water source that has lower levels of potassium as it can help them maintain their dietary goals.
People who are looking for a source of potassium may want to choose a bottled water source that has higher levels of potassium so they can get more out of their daily intake. Overall, it is essential for people to be aware of the average potassium content in bottled water in Central Minnesota so they can make an informed decision when choosing a source for their drinking needs. By checking EPA regulations as well as their own dietary needs when selecting a bottled water source, people can ensure they are getting the most out of their drinking experience.
