Navigating the Different Kinds of 'Viva Water'
Before determining if Viva water is healthy, it is essential to understand that 'Viva' is not a single, uniform product but a name associated with several different water-related offerings. The two most prominent are the HomePure Viva Water Ioniser from QNET and Viva Sparkling Water. The former is a sophisticated in-home appliance that alters the water's pH and adds hydrogen, while the latter is a bottled, flavoured beverage. This distinction is crucial, as their health implications are vastly different.
The Health Claims of QNET HomePure Viva Ionised Water
The HomePure Viva Water Ioniser uses electrolysis to create various types of water, from alkaline to acidic. The primary drinking water produced is alkaline and hydrogen-rich, with QNET and affiliated sources making several health-related claims.
Potential benefits associated with HomePure Viva water include:
- Antioxidant Properties: Hydrogen-rich water is reported to decrease oxidative stress, which may protect cells from damage.
- Improved Hydration: The ioniser claims to create water with smaller molecules that are more easily absorbed by the body, leading to better hydration.
- Enhanced Gastrointestinal Health: Alkaline water may help relieve symptoms associated with gastrointestinal issues like indigestion and hyperacidity.
- Better Energy and Athletic Performance: By supporting hydration and circulation, the water may boost energy levels and improve performance, particularly post-exercise.
- Regulation of Body's pH: Proponents suggest it can help the body maintain an optimal pH balance, though this is a debated topic in the wider medical community.
Viva Sparkling Water: A Zero-Calorie Alternative
In contrast to the ionised water from QNET, Viva Sparkling Water is a zero-calorie, no-added-sugar alternative to soft drinks. It comes in a variety of fruit flavours and is promoted as a healthy choice for guilt-free refreshment. From a health perspective, its benefits lie primarily in what it lacks compared to sugary beverages. Swapping a soda for a Viva Sparkling Water is a healthier choice by reducing sugar intake, which is linked to a host of health problems. However, it does not offer the same potential therapeutic benefits as the ionised water from the HomePure system.
Understanding Purification and Safety
For any water product, purification and safety are paramount. The HomePure Viva ioniser uses a 5-stage filtration system to remove impurities like chlorine and bacteria from tap water before it is ionised. The device is certified by bodies like the Korea Conformity Laboratory for its purification performance. For bottled products, safety depends on the manufacturer's processes and adherence to regional regulations. With concerns about microplastics and chemical leaching from plastic bottles, some experts favour high-quality filtered tap water over bottled options. It is always wise to investigate the source and purification standards of any specific water brand you are considering.
Viva Water vs. Other Types: A Comprehensive Comparison
To fully understand if Viva water is healthy for your needs, comparing it to other common water types is helpful. The table below outlines the key differences between three types of 'Viva' water and standard filtered water.
| Feature | QNET HomePure Viva Water | Viva Sparkling Water | Naturally Mineral-Rich Water (e.g., Aqua Viva) | Standard Filtered Tap Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mineral Content | Precisely controlled, via electrolysis, into alkaline, purified, and acidic variants. | Minimal; sourced as plain water and carbonated. | Naturally occurring minerals from source, like calcium and magnesium. | Removes some minerals along with contaminants, potentially lacking in key elements. |
| Health Claims | Antioxidant properties, improved hydration, energy boost, and potential GI relief. | Zero calories, zero sugar, and a healthy soda alternative. | Provides essential minerals for bodily functions. | Removes contaminants for safer, better-tasting water. |
| Cost | High initial investment for the ioniser, plus filter replacement costs. | Varies by size and retailer, generally higher than tap water. | Can be expensive depending on the brand and source. | Initial cost for filter system, with minimal long-term expense. |
| Environmental Impact | Significantly lower plastic waste compared to bottled water. | High plastic waste due to single-use bottles. | High plastic waste from bottling and transportation. | Low environmental impact, mainly from filter cartridge disposal. |
| Taste | Can vary depending on pH setting, often described as fresh or different. | Fruity flavour, lightly carbonated. | Earthy, crisp, or distinctive taste from natural minerals. | Generally neutral and clean, free from chlorine tastes. |
Making an Informed Decision
Ultimately, whether Viva water is healthy is a question that requires a deeper look at the specific product under consideration and your personal health goals. If you are seeking a convenient, zero-sugar soda replacement, Viva Sparkling Water is a straightforward and potentially healthy choice to reduce sugar intake. If you are exploring the potential benefits of alkaline or hydrogen-rich water and are willing to make a significant upfront investment, the HomePure Viva ioniser offers a high-tech approach to hydration. However, the claims regarding alkaline water are still debated in some scientific circles, and consulting a healthcare professional is always wise. For most consumers, a high-quality filter for tap water remains a reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly way to ensure safe and clean drinking water.
Conclusion
In summary, the healthiness of 'Viva water' depends entirely on which product is being discussed. The QNET HomePure Viva water ioniser provides a multi-purpose, filtered, and ionised water system with various potential health benefits, while Viva Sparkling Water offers a simple, zero-calorie alternative to sugary sodas. Neither should be confused with regional municipal waters. Your best course of action is to research the specific product, weigh its cost and environmental impact against its claimed health benefits, and choose the option that aligns with your individual needs and values. For a balanced view on general water quality, consult trusted sources like the WHO.
