Mountain Valley Spring Water, sourced from the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas, has a rich history and a distinctive profile that sets it apart from many other bottled waters. Its journey, which began over 3,500 years ago as rain and snow, involves a slow filtering process through granite-based aquifers and layers of limestone, quartz, and Ordovician marble. This natural filtration not only purifies the water but also imbues it with essential minerals and gives it a naturally balanced, alkaline pH. The result is a crisp, clean-tasting water that has earned numerous awards and a loyal following, including presidents and athletes.
The Mineral Advantage: Beyond Basic Hydration
While all water provides hydration, Mountain Valley's mineral-rich content elevates its benefits. The water contains naturally occurring trace minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are crucial for various bodily functions. The ionic form of these minerals in water allows for better absorption compared to those bound within food.
Calcium and Bone Health
Calcium is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. The calcium in Mountain Valley Spring Water can contribute to daily intake and has been shown to improve bone density in some studies involving postmenopausal women.
Magnesium for Muscle and Nerve Function
Magnesium plays a vital role in muscle and nerve function, energy production, and regulating blood pressure. The magnesium in this water may help with digestion, aid in muscle contraction and recovery for athletes, and support heart rhythm.
Potassium and Cellular Balance
This mineral is key for maintaining healthy fluid levels within cells and supports proper muscle contraction and nerve signals. Regular consumption of potassium-rich water helps maintain cellular balance and overall function.
Naturally Alkaline for Better Balance
Mountain Valley Spring Water has a natural pH of 7.3-7.7, making it slightly alkaline.
- Counteracting Acidity: The modern diet often contains a high number of acidic foods. Drinking alkaline water may help neutralize excess acidity in the body.
- Digestive Support: A slightly alkaline pH has been linked to potential improvements in digestive health, including soothing acid reflux and aiding in overall gut function.
- Enhanced Hydration: Some evidence suggests alkaline water can provide more effective hydration and support morning alignment.
A Taste of Purity: Quality and Flavor
The unique geological filtering process gives Mountain Valley Spring Water a crisp, rounded taste that stands out in the crowded bottled water market. The water has consistently earned high praise from critics, winning numerous awards, including multiple recognitions for “Best in the World” at the Berkeley Springs International Water Tasting. Its clean flavor is also preferred by top chefs and bartenders, who use it in their cooking and cocktails. The brand's commitment to quality ensures the water's integrity remains untouched from the source to the bottle.
Environmental Commitment: Packaging and Sourcing
For those concerned about the environmental impact of bottled water, Mountain Valley offers a highly sustainable option:
- Reusable Glass Jugs: The company offers a home and office delivery service using reusable 2.5 and 5-gallon glass jugs, which are collected, sanitized, and refilled for multiple cycles.
- Endlessly Recyclable Bottles: The grab-and-go options are bottled in recyclable glass and aluminum, which protect the water's taste and quality while reducing plastic waste.
- Protected Source: Mountain Valley maintains and protects a 2,000-acre forest surrounding its spring, ensuring the source remains pristine for generations to come.
Mountain Valley vs. Other Bottled Waters: A Comparison
To understand the full scope of Mountain Valley's benefits, it is useful to compare it with other types of bottled water.
| Feature | Mountain Valley Spring Water | Purified Water (RO) | Other Bottled Spring Water | Artificially Alkaline Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Protected Ouachita Mountain Spring | Varies (often municipal water) | Varies (can be less protected) | Varies (often tap water) |
| Mineral Content | Naturally rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium | Minerals stripped, may be re-added | Naturally contains minerals | Minerals often added artificially |
| Alkalinity | Natural alkaline pH of 7.3-7.7 | Often slightly acidic after purification | Varies, can be acidic or neutral | Artificially elevated pH (e.g., 9.5) |
| Absorption | Minerals more easily absorbed as free ions | Less beneficial absorption | Depends on mineral content and form | Depends on added mineral compounds |
| Packaging | Reusable glass and recyclable glass/aluminum | Often single-use plastic | Varies, often single-use plastic | Often single-use plastic |
| Flavor | Award-winning, crisp, clean, rounded taste | Often described as flat or neutral | Varies widely by source | Can have a chemical or processed taste |
Conclusion: More Than Just Water
The benefits of drinking Mountain Valley Spring Water extend beyond simple hydration. Its unique sourcing process in a protected area enriches it with essential minerals and provides a naturally alkaline pH, both of which contribute to better health outcomes, including bone density and cardiovascular support. Furthermore, the company's commitment to sustainability, utilizing reusable glass jugs and recyclable packaging, offers an eco-conscious choice for consumers. By choosing Mountain Valley, you are not only selecting a high-quality, great-tasting water but also embracing a more natural and environmentally friendly approach to wellness.
For more on the effects of mineral-rich waters on bone health, see this study on PubMed: Calcium-rich mineral water from water supply--a possible contribution to prevention of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.
