Is it safe to drink mineral water all day?

November 27, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), mineral water must contain at least 250 parts per million of total dissolved solids, including naturally occurring minerals. This distinguishes it from other water sources, prompting the question: is it safe to drink mineral water all day? While generally considered safe for most, exclusive and excessive consumption can have potential drawbacks, including an imbalance of minerals and exposure to microplastics.

Quick Summary

This article explores the health considerations of drinking mineral water exclusively. It discusses the benefits, such as essential mineral content, versus potential risks like high sodium levels, impacts on kidney function, and microplastic exposure from bottling. The key lies in moderation and understanding individual health needs.

Key Points

Moderate consumption is key: While mineral water is healthy, drinking it exclusively in high volumes can lead to mineral imbalances.
Check sodium content: Some mineral water brands are high in sodium, which can be a concern for those with high blood pressure.
Be mindful of kidney health: Individuals with pre-existing kidney issues should limit excessive intake of high-mineral waters to avoid potential kidney strain.
Alternate with tap water: A mixed approach, including both mineral and tap water, offers a balanced intake of fluids and minerals while minimizing potential risks.
Consider microplastic exposure: Choose mineral water in glass bottles to reduce exposure to microplastics found in plastic containers.
Diet provides most minerals: Rely on a varied, healthy diet for the majority of your essential mineral intake, rather than solely on water.
Sparkling water and teeth: Carbonated mineral water is slightly acidic and can contribute to minor tooth enamel erosion over time, though far less than soda.

The Composition of Mineral Water

Unlike tap water, which is treated and often has added minerals, mineral water is bottled at its natural source and contains minerals like magnesium, calcium, and sodium. The concentration of these minerals varies significantly between brands, based on the geological source. The FDA requires that mineral water contain at least 250 parts per million of total dissolved solids (TDS). While this mineral content offers potential health benefits, it also raises concerns about excessive intake when consumed exclusively and in large volumes over long periods.

Benefits of Drinking Mineral Water

Rich Mineral Source: Mineral water is an excellent source of essential minerals, especially for those who may not get enough from their diet. Supports Bone Health: The calcium found in mineral water can be highly bioavailable, meaning the body can absorb it effectively. Aids Digestion: Magnesium and sulfate-rich mineral waters can help relieve constipation by drawing water into the intestines. Supports Heart Health: Some studies suggest that the magnesium and calcium in mineral water can help regulate blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels.

Potential Risks of Exclusive and Excessive Intake

While many people can enjoy mineral water daily without issue, consuming it as a sole source of hydration requires caution.

1. High Sodium Content: Some mineral water brands have high levels of sodium, which can be problematic for individuals on low-sodium diets or those with high blood pressure. Excessive sodium intake is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease. 2. Kidney Strain: The high mineral content can potentially place a greater burden on the kidneys, which are responsible for filtering out excess minerals. This is particularly a concern for individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions. 3. Electrolyte Imbalance: Over-consuming a water with a specific mineral profile can disrupt the body's natural electrolyte balance. While rare, this can lead to symptoms like muscle cramps and irregular heart rhythms. 4. Microplastic Exposure: The long-term health effects of microplastics from plastic bottles are still under investigation, but studies suggest these particles can accumulate in the body and potentially cause inflammation. Choosing mineral water in glass bottles can mitigate this risk. 5. Dental Erosion: Carbonated (sparkling) mineral water is slightly more acidic than still water, which can contribute to minor tooth enamel erosion over time. However, it is significantly less damaging than sugary soft drinks.

Mineral Water vs. Tap Water Comparison


Feature	Mineral Water	Tap Water
Source	Natural underground reservoirs and springs.	Municipal water systems, derived from surface or ground water.
Mineral Content	Varies significantly by brand; can be higher than tap water. FDA specifies minimum 250 ppm TDS.	Variable depending on the region's source. Contains some minerals, but generally at lower levels.
Regulation	FDA regulated as a food item, with bottling at the source.	EPA-regulated (in the U.S.), with continuous monitoring and treatment for contaminants.
Processing	Treated minimally, mainly to remove toxic substances. Minerals cannot be added.	Extensively treated with disinfectants like chlorine.
Taste	Flavor profile varies based on its unique mineral composition.	Can have a blander taste or a noticeable chemical (e.g., chlorine) taste.
Cost	Significantly more expensive due to packaging and transport.	Inexpensive and readily available.
Environmental Impact	Higher carbon footprint from manufacturing and transportation of plastic bottles.	Lower environmental impact, especially with reusable bottles.

How to Safely Incorporate Mineral Water

For most people, a balanced approach is best. Incorporating mineral water as part of a varied hydration plan alongside regular tap water can offer the benefits of essential minerals without the risks of over-consumption. It is wise to check the mineral content on the label, especially the sodium level, to ensure it aligns with your health needs. For example, if you have high blood pressure, opt for a low-sodium brand.

Consider alternating between different types of water and relying on a healthy diet for the majority of your mineral intake. As one source notes, a balanced diet of fruits and vegetables provides far more minerals than drinking water alone.

Conclusion

While mineral water offers genuine health benefits, such as providing calcium and magnesium, it is not advisable to rely on it as your sole source of hydration. Exclusive and excessive consumption can lead to issues with electrolyte balance, kidney strain, and high sodium intake, depending on the brand. For most individuals, drinking mineral water in moderation, as part of a balanced fluid intake that includes tap water, is a perfectly safe and healthy choice. Paying attention to brand labels, considering the environmental impact of plastic bottles, and listening to your body's specific needs are all key to making the best hydration choices.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, drinking too much mineral water, especially varieties with high mineral content, can potentially cause side effects like digestive upset, bloating, or, in rare cases, an electrolyte imbalance.

Mineral water with high sodium content should be consumed in moderation, especially by individuals with high blood pressure or those following a low-sodium diet, as excessive sodium intake is linked to cardiovascular risks.

Both mineral and tap water are excellent for hydration. Mineral water offers additional naturally occurring minerals, but tap water is strictly regulated and safe to drink. The 'better' option often comes down to personal taste, cost, and health needs.

Bottled mineral water can contain microplastics, which are tiny plastic fragments. To minimize exposure, you can opt for mineral water sold in glass bottles instead of plastic.

No, while mineral water is a good source of certain minerals like calcium and magnesium, it's not a primary source. The majority of your mineral intake should come from a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, and other foods.

The carbonation in sparkling mineral water makes it slightly acidic, which can cause minor enamel erosion over time. However, this effect is far less significant than that of sugary carbonated drinks.

Individuals with pre-existing kidney problems, high blood pressure, or those on low-sodium diets should be cautious about drinking mineral water all day and should consult a healthcare professional.