Not all water is useful, one can harm, the other can heal. We traditionally consider mineral water from underground sources to be healing. However, its uncontrolled use threatens to disturb the salt balance and other problems. And it's not just arsenic, which is sometimes included in its composition. What you need to know about mineral water so that it brings us benefits, not harm?

Text: Honored Doctor of the Russian Federation Olga Gildenskiold

Mineral waters are waters from underground sources with the original composition of mineral substances preserved. The uniqueness of the structure and properties of mineral waters is associated with the special conditions of their formation in the bowels of the earth. Groundwater, circulating in water rocks for a long time, undergoes various natural treatments: chemical, gas, electrical. Rising up, the water is subjected to gravitational, energetic, biological effects. All this is recorded in the "memory" of underground water, reflected in its structure, properties, creating unique taste and healing properties.

Sources of health

The history of the use of mineral waters has many hundreds of years. The healing power of underground waters was a mystery to ancient people; it was sometimes attributed to some mysterious creatures that supposedly lived in the springs.

Even in ancient times, scientific attempts were made to explain the effectiveness of mineral waters. Thus, the Greek physician Archigenes, who lived in the 1st century AD, was one of the first to assert that the secret of groundwater is in their composition. He even took up the systematization of waters, dividing them into 4 groups: alkaline, ferruginous, selenium and sulphurous.

The history of the study and use of mineral waters in Russia is connected with the name of Peter I, who ordered by his decree to look for key waters in Russia. By his order, the first hydrotherapy resort in Russia was built on the Marcial (ferrous) waters in the Olonets province in Karelia. The Decree of Peter I and the "Doctor's Rules on how to act at these waters" have been preserved, as well as the "Announcement on marcial waters on Olonets", which describes in detail the diseases that can be healed by these waters.

In 1803, Alexander I recognized the national importance of the Caucasian mineral waters and began to study their healing properties. In 1825, the work of the Russian chemist was published Hermann Hess, who studied the chemical composition and effect of Russian healing waters.

Large mineral springs in Russia - in the Caucasus, Kamchatka, the Far East, in Primorye, Siberia. Drinking fountains are sometimes arranged near mineral water sources. In Russia, such brands of mineral water as Borjomi, Narzan and Essentuki are widely known.

Composition and benefits

Today, no one doubts that the strength of mineral waters is due to the substances they contain. Some substances are contained in the form of ions, others are in the form of undissociated molecules, and still others are colloidal particles. Various mineral waters differ from each other in a set of components and their ratio, some are suitable for drinking, others for therapeutic baths.

According to the chemical composition, six classes of mineral waters are distinguished: hydrocarbonate, chloride, sulfate, mixed, biologically active and carbonated.

Hydrocarbonate waters reduce the acidity of gastric juice. At the same time, depending on the method of application, they are able to both stimulate and inhibit the secretion of gastric juice. They are also used in the treatment of urolithiasis.

Chloride waters stimulate metabolic processes in the body, improve the secretion of the stomach, pancreas, and small intestine. Used for disorders of the digestive system.

Sulphate water stimulates the motility of the gastrointestinal tract, especially favorably affects the restoration of the liver and gallbladder. They are used for diseases of the biliary tract, chronic hepatitis, diabetes, obesity.

Most mineral waters have a complex mixed structure (chloride-sulfate, hydrocarbonate-sulfate, etc.), which increases their therapeutic effect when used correctly.

There are also carbonic and hydrogen sulfide mineral waters. Carbonic mineral waters improve metabolism: carbon dioxide absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract enhances the activity of the lungs, increases muscle tone. Hydrogen sulfide mineral waters are used mainly in the form of baths: hydrogen sulfide has a positive effect on blood vessels and the central nervous system, affects the glands that secrete hormones: the adrenal glands, the pituitary gland, the thyroid gland.

By temperature, mineral waters are divided into cold (up to 20 degrees Celsius), subthermal (20-37 degrees), thermal (37-42 degrees) and hyperthermal (over 42 degrees).

Healing Replacement

Mineral water is valued primarily for its medicinal properties. The healing effect of natural mineral water consists in replacing cellular water with a partially destroyed structure with individually structured water, which allows you to increase the lifespan and efficiency of all human cells, as well as in a beneficial complex effect on the entire body as a whole.

Depending on its composition, mineral waters improve metabolism, increase the excretion of waste products from the body, normalize digestion and force. In order to put the cardiovascular and nervous systems in order, doctors recommend taking mineral baths. With their help, you can activate the blood supply to the muscles of the heart and make the kidneys work. For external use, not only mineral water baths are suitable, but also showers, massage showers and head irrigations. In addition, mineral water is often used in cooking and cosmetics.

The action of mineral waters is determined by the composition of their constituent elements and chemical compounds.

Chlorine affects the excretory function of the kidneys,

Sulfate in combination with calcium, sodium or magnesium, it can reduce gastric secretion.

Bicarbonate stimulates the secretory activity of the stomach.

potassium and sodium maintain the necessary pressure in the tissue and interstitial fluids of the body. Potassium affects changes in the heart and central nervous system; sodium retains water in the body.

Calcium is able to enhance the contractile force of the heart muscle, improves immunity, dehydrates the body, affects the growth of bones, increasing their strength, has an anti-inflammatory effect. Hot calcium waters help with stomach ulcers and gastritis.

Magnesium it is well absorbed by the body, helps to reduce spasms of the gallbladder, lowers cholesterol levels in the blood, and has a beneficial effect on the nervous system.

Iodine activates the function of the thyroid gland, participates in the processes of resorption and recovery.

Bromine normalizes the function of the cerebral cortex.

Fluorine is extremely important for the body: the lack of fluorine leads to the destruction of bones, in particular teeth.

Manganese enhances protein metabolism, has a beneficial effect on sexual development.

Copper helps iron to pass into hemoglobin. Iron is part of the structure of hemoglobin: its deficiency leads to anemia.

Types of water and salt balance

According to the degree of concentration of mineral salts, natural mineral waters are divided into table, medical-table, and medicinal.

Table mineral (natural) water is suitable for daily use. The salt content in it does not exceed 1 g per liter of water. Mineral natural table water is used as a prophylactic agent for thirst quenching, cooking, etc. most importantly, it is oligomineral, that is, it is used without any restrictions. It is ideal for people who want to lead a healthy, active lifestyle and play sports. Such water has not a healing, but a physiological effect, stimulating the work of the gastrointestinal tract and excretory system.

Therapeutic table mineral water may contain from 1 to 10 g of salts per liter of water. The advantage lies in its versatility: water can be used as a table drink, and for systematic treatment. Therapeutic-table mineral water has a healing effect, but only if used correctly: recommendations can be given by a specialist doctor. Unlimited consumption of such water can lead to salt balance in the body and exacerbation of chronic diseases.

Healing mineral water is the most saturated water in terms of salt composition. This category includes mineral waters with a mineralization of more than 10 g per liter or waters with a high content of active trace elements, such as arsenic or boron. This water is used exclusively for medicinal purposes, it should be drunk strictly on the recommendation of a doctor.

The correct use of mineral waters, while maintaining a diet and a general regimen, eliminating unnecessary irritating moments (smoking, alcohol, etc.) gives good results.

Quality and safety

For sale, mineral water is bottled, often artificially carbonated. Carbon dioxide, or carbon dioxide, makes mineral water palatable, sparkling water.

There are the following main types of carbon dioxide waters:

Waters of the Narzans type - hydrocarbonate and sulphate-hydrocarbonate magnesium-calcium, usually cold, with a mineralization of up to 3-4 g / liter, serve as the basis for the most important balneological resorts in Russia (for example, the resort of Kislovodsk);

O Waters of the Pyatigorsk type are thermal waters of a complex anionic composition, usually sodium. With a mineralization of up to 5-6 g / liter, they constitute a rare and very valuable group of drinking and externally used carbonic waters (resorts of Pyatigorsk, Zheleznovodsk);

Borjomi-type waters - bicarbonate sodium, cold and warm, with a mineralization of up to 10 g / liter, are widely known as the most valuable drinking mineral waters and are used in many resorts in the country;

Even animals know about the amazing healing properties of many springs, springs, mud lakes - deer, bears, and small animals from afar gather to drink plenty of “medicine” and wallow in sometimes disgustingly smelling, but easing suffering slurry. It would seem that what can be useful in ordinary water?

Water treatment is one of the most ancient methods of healing, it was familiar to mankind long before the profession of “doctor” appeared. The sources of Pannonia (Hungary), Sapareva Bani (Bulgaria), Karlovy Vary (Czech Republic), Saturnia (Italy), Yverdon (Switzerland) have a thousand-year history. The Etruscans and Celts knew about the miraculous properties of waters and muds, Roman doctors adopted their experience, thanks to which the treatment with baths and spas spread throughout Europe. Sufferers flocked to English, French, Swiss, Czech and Italian springs, hoping to be healed of bladder stones, gout, rheumatism and other chronic diseases. It was considered a fashionable secular entertainment, at the resorts they got acquainted and renewed ties, got married and entered into marriages, hid from possible disgrace - everyone remembers how Dumas's musketeers went "to the waters in Forsh", and the elderly relatives of Jane Austen's heroines went to Bath for treatment, so that improve health, and at the same time - find suitors for nieces.

Russian mineral waters, "drinking" and mud resorts begin their history with the decrees of Peter I - the king suffering from urolithiasis was especially interested in the development of this branch of domestic medicine. According to some data, the Lipetsk mineral waters, discovered in 1707, were the first, according to others, the Marcial ferruginous waters in Karelia, discovered in 1717. In the USSR, Caucasian (Narzan, Essentuki), Georgian (Borjomi), Armenian (Arzni) and St. Petersburg (Polustrovo) mineral waters were popular. There are more than 3,500 healing springs and wells on the territory of the former USSR, not counting small local springs.

Hot and cold

How do mineral waters work? The placebo effect, of course, should not be discounted - in the resorts, many patients feel better due to a change in place and climate, new surroundings, new acquaintances that distract from ailments. However, most mineral waters in bottles do not lose their healing properties. Their value lies in the combination of active compounds of metals, salts, acids and trace elements, unique for each source. So, for example, Marcial waters are used in the treatment of iron deficiency anemia due to the high content of divalent, easily absorbed by the body iron.

"Mineralka" is used in a variety of ways. They drink according to a certain regime, before, during or after a meal, in strictly measured portions, cold, hot or warm. They also wash the hollow organs, spray the oral cavity and nasopharynx, take baths, make compresses and masks.

When used internally, mineral waters change the rate of production, composition and acidity of gastric juice, can increase the production of urea and bile, regulate bowel movements, help cleanse the body of toxins. Trace elements normalize blood composition, bromine and iodine have a positive effect on liver function. Mineral baths accelerate the healing and restoration of bone and cartilage tissue, reduce inflammation.

Mineral waters are divided into medicinal, medical-table and table. In table waters, mineralization does not exceed 1 g per liter, while it does not contain active biological substances. They do not give a special therapeutic effect, but you can drink them without any restrictions. Medicinal table waters contain from 1 to 10 g of minerals, they are used both for medical purposes and simply to quench thirst. However, even healthy people are not recommended to drink them all the time - intoxication, dysfunction of the endocrine glands are possible. And with metabolic disorders, problems with the gastrointestinal tract, liver or kidneys, even a single use of an inappropriate “mineral water” can cause an exacerbation. In medicinal waters, the content of mineral substances exceeds 10 g per liter; they should not be consumed without a doctor's prescription.

In the classification of mineral waters, many factors are taken into account: temperature (water from hot springs is often heated for treatment), transparency (turbidity and the presence of small particles are unacceptable, sediment is acceptable and even proves naturalness), taste and chemical composition.

Waters differ in the composition of the main active substance. Hydrocarbonate waters contain salts of carbonic acid. Sulfate - sulfur oxides. Chloride - chlorine compounds, magnesium - magnesium, ferrous - iron, etc. Sometimes weakly radioactive (radon) waters are also used for treatment.

To taste, mineral waters are salty (chloride, sodium chloride), bitter-salty (potassium chloride), alkaline, sour (ferrous) and almost tasteless. The stronger the taste of water, the higher the concentration of medicinal substances, the more carefully you should take such water.

From gastritis, from bronchitis ...

It is best to carry out treatment with mineral waters directly at the resort. The sanatorium daily routine will help to follow the regimen and diet - alas, one barbecue, cake or alcohol abuse is enough to devalue the effect of treatment. Experienced specialists will select water with the desired concentration of "medicine" and offer additional procedures. Rest will relieve stress and calm your nerves. However, the full course of hydrotherapy is at least 14 days - not everyone can afford such a vacation.

At home, it is equally important to follow the cycle and take breaks between courses - drink the right water for 14-21 days, then pause for 7-14 days, then repeat the course if necessary. In the process, fatty, spicy and heavy foods should be limited, when using salty and bitter-salty waters, reduce the amount of salt in food, while drinking acidic waters regularly, avoid acidic foods and foods rich in iron (apples, pomegranates, red meat). In case of exacerbation of chronic diseases, a sharp deterioration in the general condition, medicinal table waters are allowed only on prescription.

Treatment with mineral waters is indicated for the following diseases and ailments: diabetes, chronic hepatitis, chronic cholecystitis, chronic pancreatitis, urolithiasis, heartburn, appetite disorders, gastritis, stomach ulcers, diseases of the biliary tract, flatulence, anemia, reduced hemoglobin, bleeding gums, menorrhagia ( heavy menstrual bleeding), intestinal disorders (diarrhea, constipation), during recovery after major operations. In acute cases, mineral water is useful for food poisoning, intestinal infections, dehydration, after heavy physical exertion. Baths and baths with warm mineral (preferably salty) water help with stress, severe fatigue, muscle strain, hemorrhoids.

In case of urinary and cholelithiasis, hypertension, disorders in the thyroid gland, cardiovascular and oncological diseases, the intake of highly toxic drugs, mineral waters are contraindicated without a doctor's prescription. Children and teenagers should not drink sulphate waters - they slow down growth. From the intake of magnesium, sulfate and sodium chloride waters, a side effect is possible - indigestion.

To choose the right mineral water and avoid fakes, carefully read the bottle and label. As a rule, medicinal "mineral water" is poured into a darkened container so that the light does not provoke a photochemical reaction. The label should be tightly pasted, printed in a clear font on good paper. On the original water, the source (resort or city, name and number), the full chemical composition, the degree of mineralization (dining room, medical-dining room) and a detailed purpose are necessarily indicated. It should be noted that with gastritis with high or low acidity, urolithiasis with the formation of oxalates or phosphates, water of different temperatures of different composition is needed. It is best to study the directory in advance or use the Internet to find the right kind of "mineral water".

Anna Koroleva

Reading time: 6 minutes

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Drinking water is life. Without water, a person cannot live even a week. And mineral water differs from the usual many healing properties.

Where did so many useful substances come from in the water? The fact is that the basis of mineral water is rainwater, which has been accumulating in the bowels of the earth for many centuries. Just imagine how many minerals and other useful substances have dissolved in it during this time!

What is real mineral water: types and composition

The classification of mineral water is based on the difference in composition, level of acidity and radioactivity. There is a separate section of medicine - balneology, and specialists in this field painstakingly study the composition of mineral waters and their benefits for the body.

There are several types of mineral water

Table mineral water. This species is useful for general stimulation of digestion, but does not have healing properties. The taste of table water is pleasant, it is soft to drink and does not have foreign smells and tastes. It is on the basis of table water that many drinks are made. Food should not be cooked on such water.- when boiled, minerals precipitate in the form of a precipitate or form compounds that our body is not able to assimilate.

Therapeutic dining room. This water has healing properties and is very effective when used properly. Should be measured when using medical-table mineral water - oversaturation of the body with minerals can lead to salt imbalance.

Therapeutic. Healing mineral water can not only be drunk, but also used for inhalation and bathing. To achieve a tangible effect, you must follow the correct dosage, diet, and drink water regularly.

Mineral waters can also be classified according to their chemical composition.

Hydrocarbonate. Due to the large amount of mineral salts, this water is able to reduce the level of acidity of gastric juice. It is recommended to drink with heartburn, cystitis and diseases of the urolithiasis.

Chloride. It helps to stimulate metabolic processes in the body, improves the performance of the stomach and intestines, so doctors recommend including it in the diet for various disorders of the digestive system.

sulfate mineral water. It restores the functions of the gallbladder and liver, and also cleanses the body of toxins and impurities. Sulphate water should be consumed by patients with hepatitis, diabetes and at various stages of obesity. However, it is contraindicated for children and adolescents, as it can impede the absorption of calcium by the body.

In addition to the above, there are many more varieties of mineral water - sodium, calcium, sulfide, silicon, bromide, radon.

In addition to the composition, mineral water also differs in its temperature - it can be cold, subthermal, thermal and hyperthermal.

What should not be in mineral water?

The requirements for mineral water producers today are very strict, and there should be no additives of unknown origin in it.

The labels must contain the following information:

• Location of the source.
• Storage periods.
• Well number.
• Manufacturing date.
• Many labels also indicate a list of diseases for which it is recommended to drink one or another type of water.

On a note!

Beware of fakes and buy mineral water in trusted stores or pharmacies. On the shelves are often found artificial analogues of mineral water, obtained by combining simple tap water and salts with carbon dioxide. Such water complies with GOST, but no longer bears any benefit to the body.

In appearance, mineral water can also be different - colorless, yellowish or greenish with precipitation of mineral salts at the bottom of the tank.

Benefit and harm

The benefits of mineral water are undeniable - it is a real storehouse of minerals needed by our body. And since each type of water has individual properties, you need to choose mineral water very carefully.

Due to its mixed structure, it is precisely healing mineral water can be considered the best option for many of us.

Regardless of the subspecies, it is useful for the following diseases:

• Chronic hepatitis, diseases of the biliary tract.
• Diabetes and obesity.
• Anemia, thyroid disease.
• Diseases of the liver and gallbladder.
• In addition, mineral water improves blood clotting, strengthens muscles, bones and teeth, and also helps to normalize blood pressure.

Important!

1. With excessive use, any mineral water can harm the body. That is why any mineral water should be consumed in courses, taking breaks.
2. Mineral water contains a lot of salts, and its excessive consumption is a threat of urolithiasis and cholelithiasis.
3. In no case should you drink alcoholic beverages with mineral water - the result will be irreversible disturbances in the metabolic system!
4. The daily intake of mineral water is no more than half a liter. For various diseases, it is better to consult with your doctor before taking it.
5. Mineral water, like other products, has an expiration date, so when choosing a treasured bottle, do not leave the bottling date unattended. In glass containers, mineral water can be stored for up to a year, and in plastic - no more than six months.

The whole truth about mineral water - answering readers' questions

You can talk about mineral water, its beneficial properties and the process of obtaining it for a very long time. And here is one of the most frequent questions that buyers themselves ask manufacturers - why is water carbonated?

As a rule, there is no carbon dioxide in natural mineral water - it is added during the bottling process for greater safety. Carbon dioxide, when consumed in moderation, can be useful - it has a beneficial effect on bowel function. And someone just like pinching bubbles in the water.

On a note! It is still better for children to give non-carbonated water, and in order for the gas to come out of the bottle, leave the container open for 15-20 minutes.

At what age can a child drink mineral water?

1. From all types of mineral water Babies should only be given table water. top grade. This water is perfect for diluting food mixtures.
2. Medical-table mineral water can only be prescribed by a pediatrician children over one year old.
3. It is contraindicated to give medicinal mineral water to children, since later it can adversely affect the kidneys and the metabolic system.

On a note! And remember that an opened bottle of mineral water can be stored for no more than two days.

Mineral water in the diet of pregnant and lactating women

Mineral water can enrich the body of the expectant mother with the most useful elements that are needed for the healthy development of the child. The golden rule applies here - it is important to comply with the norm, otherwise unpleasant side effects may appear in the form of heartburn and flatulence. In addition, it is better to use non-carbonated mineral water, since carbon dioxide can harm pregnant women.

A balanced use of mineral water will help strengthen the body before childbirth and cope with the nausea that occurs with toxicosis.

During the period of breastfeeding, one should adhere to the same rules - nutrients along with milk will get to the child, and for a nursing mother, mineral water will only be useful.

What mineral water should athletes drink?

Mineral water is the main source of fluid that athletes are recommended to drink. The best choice is bicarbonate mineral table water - it perfectly quenches thirst and compensates for the lack of salt in the body. In addition, it is preferable for athletes to choose non-carbonated mineral water.

Healing properties of mineral water directly for athletes:

• Mineral water helps to store energy in muscle tissues.
• Helps increase physical strength.
• Reduces muscle weakness and spasms.
• Helps to better endure stress and increase endurance.
• It improves metabolism, as a result of which protein is better absorbed, and muscles grow faster.

Rating of mineral water in Russia

Every day, thousands of bottles of mineral water are taken off the shelves of shops. Recently, the number of manufacturers has increased significantly, but time-tested brands enjoy the greatest confidence among buyers.

Perhaps you can call this brand the most popular and recognizable in Russia.

The Borjomi mineral spring is located in Georgia, and its composition has remained unchanged for about a hundred years. So it's safe to say that this brand has stood the test of time.

Essentuki. This well-known brand boasts a large assortment - water is extracted from 20 sources, and the production plant itself is located in the city of the same name.

Narzan. This brand is familiar to many Russians since childhood. Narzan springs are famous for their antiquity - they were mentioned in ancient chronicles as early as the 14th century. And the name in the Kabardian dialect means "drink of heroes." The main difference of this brand from other manufacturers is the natural presence of carbon dioxide in mineral water.

Slavyanovskaya mineral water. Many experts compare this water with the famous Czech springs in Karlovy Vary and consider it just as beneficial.

In stores you can find mineral water from different manufacturers, but the main rule of choice at the time of purchase is an indication that the product is made in accordance with GOST.

5 myths about mineral water

Myth #1. Mineral water is salty. And salt is very harmful to the body.

Many people mistakenly confuse ordinary table salt with minerals. There is a huge difference between the edible salt that we use every day and the salt created by nature. With moderate use, mineral salts will only benefit.

Myth #2. The supply of water in wells is not eternal. Surely the water is saturated with minerals artificially.

The production and extraction of mineral waters is carefully controlled and checked. The natural presence of salts and nutrients is the advantage of mineral water.

Myth #3. You can not drink mineral water often.

This is a distorted interpretation. Firstly, mineral water should be drunk in courses, observing the dosage. Secondly, three types of water should be distinguished - table, medicinal and medical table. It is medical-table mineral water within reasonable limits that can be drunk every day without harm to health.

Myth number 4. It is best to drink boiled water.

This is not true. The boiling process does not kill all microbes, and in addition, it leaches most of the beneficial salts and minerals from the water (we call them scale on the kettle).

Myth number 5. Mineral water should not be drunk by athletes.

On the contrary, as we already wrote above, mineral water is simply necessary for athletes, as it has a beneficial effect on muscles.

Drink pure and healthy mineral water and be healthy!

Treatment with mineral waters is slowly becoming a thing of the past. However, there are adherents who still use mineral water for preventive purposes as a remedy for thousands of diseases. Today's market is full of this drink, you can find brackish mineral water with or without gas. For this reason, in view of its prevalence, it is worth knowing what benefit or harm a miraculous drug can bring.

Types of mineral water

1. Dining room. Mineralization of table water can be carried out with a laboratory and all the necessary equipment. In the end, you will get a mineral water with a minimum content of salts and compounds in comparison with a natural drug. The drink can be useful for people who are deficient in one or another element. In one type of mineral water, for example, sodium predominates. The second is rich in phosphorus or calcium, the third is sulfate, and so on. But it should be understood that all this is achieved artificially.
2. Therapeutic. The mineral water is exclusively natural, it is extracted from a deep well, after which it is processed and purified. Medicinal narzan is checked in all possible ways for the absence of salts of heavy metals and other harmful impurities. From the use of such a product, a person should get the maximum benefit. Due to its extensive concentration, mineral water cannot be drunk in large volumes. The cost of such a drink is higher than the price of possible analogues. Medicinal water should only be consumed as prescribed by a doctor for therapeutic purposes.
3. Canteen medical. Mixed type, which has gained popularity. There are no strict restrictions on admission, with all this, the drink is used for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes. The concentration of active substances is reduced by 1.5-2 times than in a purely medicinal mineral water. The mixed type includes not only table and medicinal water, but also ordinary filtered water. Nevertheless, in terms of usefulness, it is not inferior to the second type of mineral water.

Benefits of mineral water

1. The drink is obtained from the bowels of the earth. Water passes through the layers, thereby being freed from harmful impurities and enriched with nutrients. When using real mineral water, the activity of absolutely all vital systems and human organs is normalized. After all, our bodies are mostly made up of water.
2. Therapeutic mineral water truly works wonders. This is a real lifesaver for people with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, heart, circulatory, endocrine, and nervous systems. Very often, mineral water is consumed for genitourinary, cardiological and intestinal disorders.
3. Any purified water is a source of youth and longevity, mineral water in particular. When consuming a mixed, table or medicinal mineral water, the body is rejuvenated on all fronts. The skin is in order, wrinkles are smoothed out, a person loses weight naturally.
4. Since there is a lot of calcium in such a drink, the condition of teeth, bone tissue and nails improves. The drug has a pleasant feature to lower cholesterol and clean the blood channels. In view of this, the maximum prevention of thrombophlebitis, varicose veins, and atherosclerosis is carried out.
5. It is useful to use narzan for patients with diabetes mellitus. The mineral water contains all the compounds that are responsible for lowering blood glucose levels. On this basis, the general condition improves, the dependence on insulin is reduced.
6. The beneficial properties of mineral water apply to overweight people. The drink is included in absolutely any diet, therapeutic or preventive. It allows you to get rid of fat several times faster than if you lose weight with a small amount of daily water consumed.
7. Mineral water improves stool, relieves constipation and, on the contrary, diarrhea. Due to its diuretic properties, the kidneys are cleansed, sand and small pebbles are removed from their cavity. Narzan also has a positive effect on the liver, increasing the outflow of bile.
8. Girls during the menstrual cycle, ladies with menopause, expectant mothers simply need mineral water without gas. Such a drink normalizes the water-alkaline balance, increases hemoglobin, and normalizes the psycho-emotional environment.
9. Heated mineral water is used in health resorts for the treatment of pneumonia, bronchial asthma, persistent cough and other ailments associated with the human respiratory tract. Mineral water promotes mucus discharge and partially eliminates the smoker's cough.
10. On the basis of cool mineral water, you can prepare a tonic for the face, and narzan is often frozen to obtain cosmetic ice. Subsequently, the use of these natural remedies will help you maintain youthful skin and cope with fine wrinkles.
11. It should be mentioned the obvious fact that a person should not be allowed to become dehydrated. Mineral water perfectly copes with this task, if you use it regularly and in full doses. Also, against this background, digestive processes will improve, intestinal motility will improve, pain in the stomach will go away.

1. Women's doctors advise future and newly-made mothers to use mineral water in doses to give a general tone to the body.
2. During pregnancy, almost all women change their eating habits, suffer from toxicosis and indigestion (heartburn, constipation). Mineral water will help to cope with these delicate problems.
3. Nursing moms just need to consume water to get all the vitamins, minerals, amino acids and other elements. They will be passed along with the milk to the baby.
4. The main thing to remember is that the reception should be carried out after releasing gases from a bottle of mineral water. To do this, leave the vessel open for 50-60 minutes.

The benefits of mineral water for the face

1. Proper use of the product for the skin will give amazing results. Such water can be consumed internally and applied externally. The composition is mixed with other components in the preparation of homemade masks.
2. It is important to know that for cosmetics it is necessary to use water without gas. Carbonated mineral water adversely affects the dermis. Carbon dioxide accelerates the aging process and destroys skin cells.
3. To ensure proper hydration and toning, it is recommended to carry out a simple procedure every day. Freeze mineral water without gas in advance in molds. Wipe the skin with ready-made ice cubes.
4. To eliminate oily sheen and improve the activity of the sebaceous glands, you need to use a mineral water with a high salt content in the composition. As a result of systematic rubbing of the face, the skin will acquire an even tone, the pores will narrow.
5. To eliminate swelling on the face and get rid of bags under the eyes, you should prepare a simple tonic. In equal amounts, combine non-carbonated mineral water and chamomile broth. Wash your face twice a day.
6. To cleanse the skin and pores of impurities, brew calendula with boiled mineral water. Use the remedy as a lotion. Leave the composition on your face for a quarter of an hour.

1. At present, the actual question remains whether it is possible to give mineral water to children and from what age. There is definitely an answer, a child can only drink a certain type of product. Do not give mineral water to babies under six months. During this period, the body receives everything it needs from milk.
2. If you feed your baby with an artificial mixture, mineral water will not be superfluous at all. The drink can be included in the diet from 1 month. Keep in mind that it is necessary to use a special mineral water for babies. Often such water is called children's water. The product is thoroughly tested.
3. It is not recommended to give children mineral water of natural origin with medicinal qualities. If there is such a need, consult a pediatrician in advance. The doctor will determine which mineral water should be given and with a certain composition.

Harm of mineral water

1. It is important to understand that almost all mineral and table water is carbonated. An excess of carbon dioxide in the product provokes an increased secretion of gastric juice. In most cases, heartburn occurs. After some time, gastritis, an ulcer may develop.
2. If you often drink an additionally mineralized product, then the body can get an excess of active substances. As a result, the water-salt balance is disturbed. Kidney failure may develop, sand and stones appear.
3. Mineral water extracted in natural conditions undergoes additional processing at the enterprise. As a result, most natural elements are lost. This product is of no use.
4. If you are consuming natural narzan, it is important to understand that mineral water can provide benefits to the body. But, consuming raw materials in unlimited quantities, poisoning often occurs.

The benefits of mineral water, of course, are. Consume the product wisely and study the composition. Natural sources of health definitely do not harm. As for the goods sold, it all depends on the manufacturer. Before buying, always study the composition, date of manufacture and expiration date.

Video: mineral water - medicine or poison?

What is a mineral?

Mineral is called natural drinking water, extracted from underground sources protected from pollution, preserving the natural chemical composition. Depending on the mineralization (the amount of salts dissolved in 1 liter of water), mineral waters are divided into table, medical-table and medicinal.

Table mineral water has mineralization less than 1 g/l. It can be drunk daily.

Therapeutic table water with a mineralization of 1-10 g / l is most often used for medicinal purposes. It includes, for example, "Narzan", "Borjomi", "Slavyanovskaya", "Essentuki No. 4" and "Essentuki No. 17". It can be drunk little by little and healthy people - 1-2 times a week, 100-200 ml after meals.

Therapeutic mineral water has a mineralization of more than 10 g/l and is intended only for treatment! It is absolutely impossible to drink it like ordinary water!

Depending on the chemical composition, mineral water can also be chloride, bicarbonate, sulfate, etc. The composition also determines the diagnosis, in which the use of this or that water is recommended. For example, bicarbonate reduces the acidity of gastric juice and is prescribed for gastritis and stomach ulcers, urolithiasis. Chloride, on the contrary, stimulates the secretion of gastric juice and is recommended for low stomach acidity. Sulfate - regulates the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, is useful for diseases of the liver and biliary tract, diabetes and obesity.

In nature, waters of a mixed composition are most often found. For example, "Narzan", "Borjomi", "Slavyanovskaya" and "Smirnovskaya" are bicarbonate-sulfate, therefore they are prescribed for many diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and kidneys.

Meets and artificially mineralized water. It is an aqueous solution of sodium, calcium and magnesium salts, saturated with carbon dioxide. For its manufacture, both water from underground sources and purified tap water are used. Mineralized water does not have the beneficial properties of natural mineral water. In Russia, such waters are known as seltzer and soda.

How to drink?

Age matters

Table mineral water can be given to children in principle from any age. But you can’t abuse it, you can only occasionally replace ordinary drinking water with mineral water.

Carbonated table mineral water a healthy child can try after 3 years. It is given no more than 1-2 times a week. If the child is under 3 years old, such water can irritate a sensitive stomach and cause indigestion.

Therapeutic table and medicinal waters children are given only on prescription. They are used only for long-term chronic diseases, which are rare in babies, so they are usually prescribed for adolescents and adults.

Artificially mineralized water can be given to children, but not daily. Moreover, sparkling water, like any soda, can only be offered to them after 3 years.

baby water

As for children under 3 years old, it is best to give them special children's water to drink. It is divided into two types: drinking (mineralization in the range of 0.2-0.3 g / l) and for the preparation of baby food (mineralization 0.06-0.1 g / l). The names speak for themselves. Water for preparing baby food does not change its composition when heated.

Glass or plastic

In what container should I buy mineral water? It is believed that glass is the safest container for health, because this material is neutral in its chemical composition, does not emit any harmful substances and does not change the taste of the drink. However, plastic also has its advantages. A plastic water bottle is lighter, easier to transport (especially when it comes to a large volume, for example, a 5-liter canister). Some experts believe that cheap plastic is capable of passing gases, so it is better not to store mineral water and carbonated drinks bottled in plastic bottles for a long time. At the same time, modern technologies make the use of plastic absolutely safe. And if you do not forget that plastic bottles are intended only for one-time use and do not store water in them for a long time, then you can safely buy mineral water in plastic.

Attention to the label

When buying mineral water, carefully read what is written on the label. It should indicate:

• Product name;
• type of water (drinking, for preparing baby food, carbonated, non-carbonated, table, etc.);
• country and place of origin;
• well name or number;
• chemical composition of water;
• shelf life;
• storage conditions;
• volume;
• manufacturer's address.

If the water is medical-table or medicinal, the label also indicates indications and contraindications for use.

It is useful to know where the water is bottled. Ideally, this should take place near the source, as long-term transportation in tanks destroys the natural chemical composition and promotes the growth of unwanted microorganisms.

Unconventional use

There are many useful substances in mineral water. They have a beneficial effect on the skin, respiratory organs, have an immunostimulating and strengthening effect. So mineral water can be used for skin care, nasal rinsing and, on the recommendation of a doctor, for inhalation.

For washing the nose with a runny nose, it is better to take brackish medicinal table water. It helps to reduce swelling of the mucosa and clear the nasal passages of mucus. Release the gas from it and wait until the water warms up to room temperature. Chilled mineral water cannot be used for washing.

As for inhalations with mineral water, they are useful, but many doctors categorically disagree with the use of mineral water in nebulizers. If you use a special device for inhalation, carefully read the instructions for it to make sure that mineral water is not contraindicated for the device.

Regardless of the device (be it a special inhaler or a regular pan), before breathing in mineral vapors, release gas from the water. The procedure lasts 5-10 minutes, for a child, the time is reduced by about half.

Weakly mineralized (table) mineral waters can be used for washing with allergic and other skin diseases. Before washing with mineral water, gas will also have to be released from it, leaving it in an open container for 30-40 minutes (carbon dioxide dries the skin and can cause irritation). For healthy normal or dry skin, artificially mineralized water obtained from an underground source is also suitable: after removing makeup, it can be used as a good tonic. Mineral (thermal) waters in the form of sprays are also used for skin care.

On the recommendation of a doctor, mineral water can be used as a treatment for baby skin. Typically, such washings are prescribed for manifestations of atopic dermatitis or for hypersensitive skin. The composition of the water must first be discussed with the doctor.