Understanding the Different Types of “Spa Water”
The term "spa water" can refer to several distinct types of water, each with different properties, potential benefits, and risks. Distinguishing between them is the first and most critical step in determining their safety and health impacts.
Bottled Mineral Water
This is perhaps the most common form of drinkable spa water. Sourced from protected underground reservoirs, bottled mineral water is legally required to contain a consistent level of naturally occurring minerals and trace elements. Unlike tap water, it often does not undergo chemical disinfection, relying on the pristine nature of its source and sterile bottling processes.
Potential Benefits:
- Bone Health: Mineral waters rich in calcium and magnesium may support bone strength and density, particularly for those with low dietary intake of these minerals.
- Digestive Health: High magnesium and sulfate content can have a laxative effect, promoting regular bowel movements and relieving constipation. Some mineral waters can also aid indigestion.
- Heart Health: Studies have linked regular consumption of certain mineral waters to improved cardiovascular health, including reduced 'bad' (LDL) cholesterol and lowered blood pressure in individuals with low mineral levels.
- Hydration: Due to their dissolved mineral content, which acts as electrolytes, these waters can enhance the body's hydration and fluid balance.
Potential Risks:
- Mineral Overload: Excessive daily consumption of heavily mineralized water could potentially strain the kidneys, which must filter out the extra dissolved solids.
- High Sodium Content: Some mineral waters contain significant amounts of sodium, which can be a concern for individuals on low-sodium diets.
- Microplastics and BPA: Bottled water, especially when stored in plastic under warm conditions, can be contaminated with microplastics and hormone-disrupting chemicals like BPA. Glass bottles eliminate this concern.
- Carbonation Effects: Sparkling mineral water is slightly acidic and can cause bloating, hiccups, and, with excessive consumption, minor erosion of tooth enamel over time.
Natural Hot Spring and Geothermal Water
In many cultures, drinking natural hot spring water is a historical practice called "crenotherapy" or "insen" in Japan. The mineral-rich water is absorbed by the body, with supporters claiming benefits for digestion, metabolism, and skin health.
Potential Benefits:
- Digestive Aid: Historically, specific mineral compositions, such as bicarbonate or sulfate waters, have been used to assist with gastrointestinal issues.
- Nutrient Absorption: As with bottled mineral water, ingesting the water allows minerals like calcium and magnesium to be absorbed by the body.
Potential Risks:
- Biological Contaminants: Untreated natural springs, regardless of temperature, can harbor harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites, including Cryptosporidium, Giardia, and E. coli, which cause severe illness.
- Chemical Contamination: Geothermal water can naturally contain high levels of heavy metals like arsenic, which are toxic if ingested. Runoff from industrial or agricultural activity can also contaminate sources.
- Inconsistent Composition: The mineral content of natural springs can vary over time due to geological and environmental factors, making it impossible to guarantee safety without regular testing.
Infused Water (Modern Spa Water)
This is a safe, flavorful alternative made at home by infusing tap or filtered water with fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Its primary purpose is to encourage increased water intake, but it can also provide trace nutrients and antioxidants from the infused ingredients.
Potential Benefits:
- Enhanced Hydration: The addition of flavor can make drinking water more enjoyable, leading to higher consumption.
- Vitamin and Antioxidant Boost: Infusing water with ingredients like citrus or berries can add a small dose of vitamins and antioxidants.
- Detoxifying Properties: Some ingredients, like cucumber or mint, are believed to have mild detoxifying properties, aiding in flushing toxins from the body.
Potential Risks:
- Contamination from Ingredients: While generally very safe, using unclean produce or tap water can introduce contaminants. Always wash produce thoroughly and use a safe water source.
- Not a Cure-All: The nutritional benefits of infused water are minimal. It should not be considered a substitute for a balanced diet.
Comparison Table: Types of "Spa Water" Explained
| Feature | Bottled Mineral Water | Natural Hot Spring Water | Infused Water |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Protected underground reservoirs | Untreated geothermal springs | Tap/filtered water with added ingredients |
| Safety | Generally safe due to regulation and testing | Significant risk of bacterial/chemical contamination; not recommended unless verified safe | Very safe, dependent on the purity of the water source and produce used |
| Regulation | Regulated as a food product (e.g., FDA in the U.S.) | Varies; drinkable springs must be permitted and tested | None; based on user preparation |
| Primary Benefit | Supplemental minerals, hydration, potential targeted health effects (e.g., digestion) | Historically used for balneotherapy; potential mineral absorption | Flavor enhancement for increased hydration |
| Primary Risk | High sodium, microplastics (in plastic bottles), mineral overload | Pathogens, heavy metals, parasites | Contaminated ingredients if not washed correctly |
Can You Drink Hot Tub or Swimming Pool Water?
Absolutely not. The water in hot tubs, spas, and swimming pools is a breeding ground for germs and contains high levels of chemicals like chlorine, which can create toxic byproducts when mixed with organic matter. The CDC explicitly warns against swallowing water from hot tubs due to the risk of respiratory, skin, and gastrointestinal illnesses caused by bacteria like Legionella and parasites such as Cryptosporidium. Even a small amount of swallowed water can lead to sickness, and it should never be considered a drinking source.
The Risks of Drinking Untreated Natural Water
While the romantic image of drinking from a pristine mountain spring is compelling, the reality is that all untreated natural water sources pose serious health risks. Water from any spring or well is susceptible to contamination from surface runoff containing animal waste, chemicals, or other pollutants. These contaminants can vary based on local geology and environmental factors and are invisible to the naked eye.
Contaminants found in natural water sources include:
- Pathogens: Bacteria (E. coli), viruses (Norovirus), and parasites (Giardia) can cause severe gastrointestinal distress.
- Heavy Metals: High concentrations of naturally occurring heavy metals like arsenic can seep into spring water, posing long-term health risks such as kidney damage.
- Sulfur: While low levels of hydrogen sulfide gas are mostly an aesthetic issue (the rotten egg smell), high concentrations can cause nausea and digestive upset.
The safest approach is to assume all untreated water sources are unsafe for drinking unless you have verified testing data that guarantees its purity.
Conclusion: Purity is Paramount
The question of whether drinking spa water is good for you has no single answer. While commercially bottled mineral water can offer supplemental minerals and health benefits when consumed in moderation, untreated natural spring water and pool water pose significant health risks due to the potential for contamination. Infused water offers a safe and flavorful way to boost hydration with minimal added nutrition. When considering any form of spa water, the source, purification process, and overall safety should be your primary concern. Always choose a tested and regulated source to ensure purity.
For more information on ensuring your water is safe, consult the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines for drinking water safety: https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/drinking/index.html
