It is necessary to support a variety of methods, because metabolic processes in the tissues of the body are carried out exclusively in the presence of this substance. A daily portion of liquid for a person, as a rule, includes not only pure water - it is appropriate to replace it with juices, tea or mineral water. What is the latest product? What classification is it subject to? Is it great benefits of mineral water for the body?

Historical background

As a rule, society is of the opinion that water from healing springs is capable of doing the impossible: it relaxes, relieves irritation, soothes, and also resists aggression and bad mood. Is it so?

The history of the existence of mineral water is determined by hundreds of years. It all began with the fact that in antiquity, near the holy springs, Greek tribes built sanctuaries for the god Asclepius (he was considered the patron saint of medicine), and the Romans practiced the construction of temples in the name of Aesculapius. It is important to note that the Greek archaeologists discovered the ruins, apparently, of a hydropathic establishment, the construction of which was carried out in the sixth century BC. Thus, from generation to generation, the transmission of oral legends about the truly magical properties of mineral waters was practiced, which did not stop gushing out of the ground.

Mineral water formation process

Mineral water is water of rain nature, which for an unimaginable period of time ago went deep into the bowels of the earth. In the process of penetration of the product through the pores of various layers of the rock, many-sided substances of mineral origin, located there, were dissolved in it. Thus, it differs from standard water of a natural nature in open water bodies and in subsoil water by the presence of substances of mineral origin in its composition. In addition, the depth of occurrence of mineral water plays an important role in the formation of the product: the deeper, the better the degree of purification of the product and its saturation with carbon dioxide, as well as mineral substances, which, as it turned out, accumulate naturally as the product passes through geological formations. So, mineral water is, first of all, water from underground sources.

Distinctive features of mineral water from the dining room

Undoubtedly, it is necessary to be able to distinguish between drinking and mineral water. The Codex Alimentarius, the main UN standard endowed with nutritional information, defines these distinctive features in the following paragraphs:

• Mineral water is extracted from natural sources and wells formed by drilling. Thanks to this approach, external influence on both physical and chemical properties of a natural mineral product is absolutely excluded.
• Mineral water is a product containing a certain amount of salts and trace substances.
• The process of collecting mineral water is carried out under conditions that, definitely, guarantee the initial purity at the microbiological level, as well as the stable chemical composition of the components contained in the product.

Interesting features of mineral water

Mineral water is a rather capricious product by its nature, requiring careful handling. There is an opinion that natural water is much softer than precious wine. And this is actually so, because the water from the source should be raised very carefully, which is very difficult to produce, because the depth plays its role qualitatively. Packing a product in a convenient and extremely safe container is also not an easy task, because in the process of this operation it is necessary to preserve the unique properties of mineral water, which were originally laid down by Mother Nature.

Natural water is perfectly absorbed by the body: when it enters the stomach, it reacts qualitatively with gastric juice, releasing carbon dioxide and stimulating the secretory work of the organ. Of course, as a result of such "magic" appetite and mood are noticeably improved. Mineral water, the benefits and harms of which we are considering, has a beneficial effect on our body. That is why, for example, the French put a bottle of mineral water on the dining table, as a rule, next to bread.

Statistical data

Today, there is a real mineral boom in Russia. This fact can be confirmed by the calculations of the State Statistics Committee, as a result of which the number of names of mineral water throughout the country is equal to 700. Nevertheless, there is a significant lag behind the industrially developed countries, judging by the criterion of the volume of product consumption per capita. According to statistics, one European today accounts for approximately one hundred liters of mineral water per year. An Austrian is able to drink 72 liters of water over the same time period, a Frenchman - 80 liters, an Italian - 116 liters, but the consumption of natural water by an average inhabitant of Germany reaches 129 liters per year. And now the main fact: a Russian citizen drinks only 10 liters of mineral water during the year, which is not a bit impressive, although during the Soviet Union this figure was half that. It should be added that the natural water market in Russia is estimated at about 1.2 billion liters per year. Besides, every year this market grows by 10-15 percent.

Species diversity

Today, there are certain indicators that are the basis for the classification of natural waters. Thus, it is customary to distinguish the following types of product:

• Depending on the mineralization: low-mineralized, mineral waters of low, medium, high mineralization, brine and strong-brine natural waters.
• From the point of view of balneology, there are dining rooms, medical and
• Depending on the chemical composition: hydrocarbonate, chloride, sulfate, sodium, calcium, magnesium and mixed mineral waters.
• By temperature regime: very cold, cold, cool, indifferent, warm, hot (in another way they are called thermal) and overheated (another name is high thermal).
• By the degree of acidity: neutral, slightly acidic, acidic, strongly acidic, slightly alkaline, alkaline.

Popular mineral waters today

As it turned out, today the range of mineral waters is extremely rich. Hence, it would be advisable to consider the most popular brands of the product:

• "Borjomi" is sodium bicarbonate carbonate water. The benefits of mineral water this manufacturer is in the treatment of liver diseases, gastrointestinal diseases, urinary tract, as well as in the prevention and normalization of the consequences of metabolic disorders. Borjomi spring is located in Georgia (800 meters above sea level).
• 17, 20) is a system of mineral waters, the first representative of which is a medicinal-table product, the second is a medicinal one and the third is exclusively a table product. This product has no analogues both in terms of healing properties and taste. Mineral water is characterized by the influence of a complex orientation on all functional systems of the body (from the book "Mineral waters guarding health"
• "Narzan" - water of carbonate hydrocarbonate-sulphate-calcium origin. Its source is located in Kislovodsk and is named similarly to the brand. This product is able to increase appetite, enhance the secretory activity of the digestive system, increase the quantitative indicator of urine and so on.

Mineral water benefits and harms

At the initial stages of the existence of mineral water, the allocation of its medicinal purpose as the main direction, arguing the use of the product, is noted. Therefore, selling mineral water exclusively in pharmacies would be extremely fair. Why is mineral water useful for health?? There is no information in the world that determines the maximum amount and permissible quality of mineral water - everything is individual! However, in the process of using mineral water, the following rules should be adhered to: it is necessary to exclude the regular intake of natural water, and use it only during periods of active loss of salts by the body. To achieve a satisfactory effect, you should carefully read the information on the labels and tend to buy only a high-quality product, as well as, if possible, choose mineral water with elements of natural origin.

Benefits of sparkling mineral water

As it turned out, natural water is endowed with a mixed type structure, which, together with biologically active substances, significantly enhances the therapeutic effect of its consumption:

• Iron is a potent barrier in the fight against anemia.
• Iodine normalizes the thyroid gland.
• Calcium is an excellent tool for maintaining ionic balance in the body, and also has a beneficial effect on the process of blood clotting.
• Magnesium serves as a wonderful regulator of carbohydrate and energy metabolism, in addition, it contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system.
• Sodium is a good support for normal blood pressure.
• Potassium is essential for heart and kidney function.
• Fluoride is an essential element in bones and teeth, and is also very beneficial for pregnant women.

The harm of mineral water to the human body

Mineral water is harmful to health: Is it so? The answer to this question is extremely simple: the matter is in the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of the use of this product. Thus, the frequency of taking medicinal mineral water, as well as the daily dosage, depend on the qualitative composition of the product and, naturally, on the doctor's recommendations. As a rule, it is correct to drink mineral water 15-30 minutes before eating food in case of a low level of gastric secretion, and 45-60 minutes with adequate secretion. If the secretion of the organ is increased, then you should drink mineral water an hour and a half before meals.

It is important to note that today artificial gasification of water is very common, which fully justifies the loss of the medicinal properties of the product after a while. However, there is a workaround here: to eliminate carbon dioxide, the open bottle should be shaken well, after which the artificial gases will evaporate. Otherwise, a highly carbonated drink can be an increasing factor in relation to the acidity of gastric juice.

The choice of mineral water is a task that requires an individual approach

What mineral water is good for health? The answer to this question is very multifaceted, because just like the characteristics of the human body, the properties of mineral water are individual. As it turned out, mineral water of natural origin is a specific set of salts and their ions dissolved in water, therefore, today it is possible to form an artificial composition easily, there would be a desire and appropriate knowledge. Only crude counterfeits (water, salt, soda), which, fortunately, have been practically eradicated, are especially dangerous.

When choosing a product, close attention must be paid to factors such as the integrity of the packaging, the cleanliness of the bottle and the content of impurities in the water. If in the process of using mineral water there is a burning effect or an extremely sharp smell of a chemical nature, then it is better to get rid of this product as soon as possible. In general, it is advisable to purchase natural water only in proven places, for example, in pharmacies.

Since ancient times, man has empirically determined that Mineral water has amazing healing properties.

Mineral water (MV) Is a well-known term for most of us, but, as a rule, not everyone is familiar with its basic properties and the rules of its use.

Mineral water is ...

So what is it Mineral water in the general sense of this term. Mineral water - these are all waters, mostly underground and rarely above ground, containing an increased amount of biologically active mineral components, and sometimes biological. Mineral waters have medicinal and prophylactic properties, which are studied by such science as balneology.

Let us give some precise definitions.

Universal supplementary practical explanatory dictionary

Healing mineral waters - they contain the largest amount of minerals and trace elements. This is a real medicine that must be used based on medical indications. Such water is used not only for drinking, but also for various procedures: baths, irrigations, showers, microclysters, inhalations. It is very risky to constantly quench your thirst with medicinal mineral water. It is drunk in courses, like any other medicine, while observing a certain dosage.

Universal supplementary practical explanatory dictionary. I. Mostitsky. 2005–2012

Scientific and technical encyclopedic dictionary

MINERAL WATER, originally - water formed in nature, valuable for its mineral composition. Now it is also water containing natural or artificially introduced salts or gases (for example, carbon dioxide). Healing mineral waters from many famous healing springs are bottled and sold. They are classified by location, application and chemical composition. Artificial mineral waters were created to mimic natural ones.

Scientific and technical encyclopedic dictionary

Chemical encyclopedia

MINERAL WATERS - natural, usually underground, waters characterized by an increased content of biologically active mineral or organic components and possessing certain chemical composition and physicochemical properties (temperature, radioactivity, etc.), thanks to which they have a therapeutic effect. In a broad sense, mineral waters also include natural waters, from which halogens, boron and other substances are extracted, and thermal waters used for energy purposes.

Chemical encyclopedia. - M .: Soviet encyclopedia. Ed. I. L. Knunyants. 1988

Big Encyclopedic Dictionary

MINERAL WATER (usually underground) - characterized by an increased content of some biologically active components (CO2, H2S, As, etc.) and often have elevated temperatures and radioactivity. According to their composition, mineral waters are carbonate, hydrogen sulfide, ferruginous, etc. The general mineralization of 1 g / l is usually considered the border between fresh and mineral waters. They are mainly used for spa treatment and as table water.

Big Encyclopedic Dictionary. 2000

Large Medical Dictionary

Mineral waters are natural waters containing in high concentrations any mineral (less often organic) components and gases that can have a healing effect on the human body.

Big Medical Dictionary. 2000

Ecological encyclopedic dictionary

MINERAL WATERS - underground waters characterized by an increased content of some biologically active components (CO2, hydrogen sulfide, bromine, etc.) and possessing certain physicochemical properties (temperature, chemical composition, radioactivity, etc.), which allow them to be used in medicinal purposes. By chemical composition, mineral waters are distinguished: carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, methane, ferruginous, etc. Deposits of mineral waters are known in many zones of the globe: in the USSR - the resorts of the Caucasian mineral waters, Borzhomi, Truskavets, etc., to the Center. France - Vichy and others, in Czechoslovakia - Karlovy Vary and others.

Ecological encyclopedic dictionary. - Chisinau: Main editorial office of the Moldavian Soviet Encyclopedia. I.I.Dedyu. 1989

Brief Encyclopedia of Household

MINERAL WATER differs from ordinary fresh water by a higher content of minerals, and often by an increased temperature and the presence of gases. They are used either directly from sources or bottled. They are used in the treatment of many diseases and especially diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Some of the mineral waters are known not only as medicinal, but also as table drinks ("Narzan", "Essentuki No. 20", "Moscow", "Izhevsk", etc.).

The USSR is rich in mineral waters; more than 3500 points of their exit from the bowels to the earth's surface are known. Of the mineral waters of the RSFSR, the most common are the medicinal waters of the sources of the Mineralovodsk group of resorts (Essentuki, Zheleznovodsk, Kislovodsk, Pyatigorsk) - "Narzan", "Essentuki" (No. 20, No. 4, No. 17), "Smirnovskaya", "Slavyanovskaya", "Batalinskaya ", As well as mineral waters" Moscow "," Polyustrovskaya "(the source is located in the vicinity of Leningrad)," Izhevsk "(Tatar ASSR).

The Borjomi resort of the Georgian SSR is famous for its delicious, thirst-quenching mineral water "Borjomi" with high medicinal properties; from other mineral waters of Georgia the most widespread are "sairme" (table water), "lugela", "dzau-suar", "zvare", "skuri".

The Ukrainian SSR has both table and medicinal mineral waters: "Berezovskaya", "Melitopol", and only medicinal: "Mirgorodskaya", "Polyano-kvasova" (Transcarpathia).

Among the mineral waters of Armenia, the most famous are the table and medicinal waters "arzni", "jermuk", "dilijan"; in the Azerbaijan SSR table and medicinal waters "badamlinskaya" and "tursh-su" and medicinal "isti-su".

Good mineral water "vytautas" from the Birshtokas resort of the Lithuanian SSR.

On the label of each bottle of mineral water its content and purpose are indicated, but, as a rule, medicinal mineral waters should not be used without a doctor's prescription. Table mineral waters are usually useful for all healthy people.

Brief encyclopedia of the household. - M .: Great Soviet Encyclopedia. Ed. A. F. Akhabadze, A. L. Grekulova. 1976

Mineral water - types and classification

Classification mineral water occurs according to such characteristics - the level of mineralization, ionic and gas composition, temperature, acidity / alkalinity, radioactivity.

Classification by the level of mineralization:

• Slightly mineralized water - 1-5 grams / liter;
• Low-mineralized water - over 5-10 grams / liter;
• Medium mineralized water - over 10-15 grams / liter;
• Highly mineralized water - over 15-35 grams / liter;
• Brine mineral water - over 35-150 grams / liter;
• Strong brine mineral water - over 150 grams / liter.

Classification by ionic composition, depending on the predominance of ions of certain minerals:

• Chloride mineral water - Cl;
• Sulphated MB - SO4;
• Hydrocarbonate MB - НСО3;
• Sodium MV - Na +;
• Calcium MB - Ca2 +;
• Magnesium MB - Mg2 +;
• Bicarbonate-chloride MB;
• Magnesium-calcium MB;
• and others with different combinations of ions.

Classification by the level of presence in Mineral water of such an element as Radon:

• Very low radon MV - 5-20 nCi / L;
• Low radon MV - 20-40 nCi / l;
• Sredneradonovaya MV - 40-200 nCi / l;
• High-radon MV - 200 nCi / L.

For medicinal mineral waters, used internally, through drinking, such a parameter as acidity is of great importance. Acidity is determined by an indicator (pH).

Classification of mineral water by acidity:

• Neutral MV - 6.8 ... 7.2;
• Weakly acidic MV - 5.5 ... 6.8;
• Sour MV - 3.5 ... 5.5;
• Strongly acidic MV - 3.5 and less;
• Weak alkaline MV - 7.2 ... 8.5;
• Alkaline MB - 8.5.

Classification of Mineral Water by Temperature:

• Very cold mineral water - below 4 °;
• Cold MV - up to 20 °;
• Cool MV - up to 34 °;
• Indifferent MV - up to 37 °;
• Warm MV - up to 39 °;
• Hot / thermal MV - up to 42 °;
• Overheated / high thermal MW - over 42 °.

Mineral water used for healing through drinking, depending on its mineralization, is called table or medicinal:

• Table mineral water - no more than 1 g / l;
• Medical dining room MV - 1-10 g / l (a lower level of mineralization is also possible, subject to the presence of certain biologically active components - iron, arsenic, boron, silicon, iodine);
• Therapeutic CF - 10-15 g / l, and sometimes more.

Since the topic of Mineral Waters is unusually broad, we will focus on the most important, from our point of view, moments.

First of all, we note that Mineral water, if used incorrectly, it can harm human health, therefore it is advisable, and in some cases and mandatory, before using it, it is necessary to consult a doctor. If this is not possible, it is necessary to collect all possible information and make an informed decision.

Mineral water and healing procedures

The healing properties of Mineral Water are used in the following procedures:

• internal use - drinking thereof;
• bathrooms;
• cosmetic procedures: washing, masks ...;
• inhalation;
• intestinal procedures, body cleansing - enemas, bowel lavage, irrigation….

In the case of drinking Mineral water, it is necessary and important to know the following points:

• mineral waters are table, medical-table and medicinal, of which only the dining room, as a rule, can be drunk daily without great risk to health;

Mineral water has long enjoyed fame. People travel to her springs in the hope of being healed. Drinks with this name are sold in stores. This liquid is recommended by doctors. On its basis, there are many recipes for traditional medicine. But is it always useful and what are the benefits and harms of mineral water?

Where does mineral water come from

People began to drink such water even when they could not explain its quality. There is nothing supernatural here. Underground waters, passing through various layers of the earth's crust, are saturated with trace elements. Coming to the surface, they bring dissolved natural components to people.

Types of mineral water

The variety of such waters depends on their composition. According to the chemical composition, there are five types:

• carbonate contain salts of carbonic acid;
• sulfate salts include sulfuric acid salts:
• chloride are saturated with chlorine compounds;
• magnesium absorbed magnesium compounds;
• ferruginous include iron salts.

Healing natural waters are classified according to the degree of mineralization:

1. Table water is low in trace elements. Healthy people drink mineral water every day only when it is low in minerals.
2. Medicinal table water has a high mineralization. It should be taken in courses.
3. The healing waters are rich in minerals. Their uncontrolled reception is unacceptable. They are prescribed by your doctor as a medicine and are sold in pharmacies.

Chemical composition and caloric content of mineral water

From a chemical point of view, the composition of natural sources depends on dissolved salts, which are found in greater quantities. The rest of the constituents are represented by different amounts of all other elements present on earth.

Natural moisture contains neither proteins, nor fats, nor carbohydrates, so its caloric content is zero.

The healing properties of mineral water

The healing qualities of a liquid saturated with minerals are determined by its chemical composition:

1. Carbonate water used for stomach diseases caused by acidity increase. It increases the alkali content, normalizes the balance of acids and alkalis. Reception will help eliminate heartburn, relieve belching, reduce the heaviness in the stomach.
2. Sulphate moisture gives a choleretic result. It is used to treat the liver and biliary tract.
3. Chloride water is used in the treatment of gastritis with reduced secretion. It stimulates the formation of gastric juice, improves peristalsis, increases acidity, and helps to improve the function of the pancreas.
4. Magnesium waters strengthen bones and joints. Magnesium is essential for normal heart function. It activates the kidneys, counteracts muscle tissue atrophy, tidies up the nervous system, and helps in the fight against stress.
5. Ferruginous waters are the most acceptable for constant consumption. Their composition increases hemoglobin, stimulates blood formation, improves the functioning of the digestive system.

Mineral water for pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas. Ideally, pancreatic enzymes should enter the intestine, but the diseased organ is not able to fully perform its functions, so the enzymes begin their action without reaching the final goal. As a result, they begin to digest the pancreas.

Mineral water treatment is possible only during remission. All actions are aimed at reducing enzymatic activity. For this purpose, alkaline carbonate variants are used, which suppress the formation of hydrochloric acid. Coal salts relieve spasms.

Attention! If you constantly drink water from carbonate sources, then problems with the pancreas disappear, and digestion is improving. How often to drink mineral water for the treatment of pancreatitis - the gastroenterologist will advise, based on the results of the examination.

Cleansing the liver with mineral water at home

Cleansing the liver with mineral water can be quite effective. Chlorine-containing water should be used. A unique liquid of volcanic origin is also suitable.

Important! The procedure should be carried out after consulting a specialist.

Tubage is unacceptable for people with stones in the liver and gallbladder. The displaced calculi block the bile ducts. To eliminate the consequences, an operation will be required.

In other cases, homemade tubage gives positive results:

• bile liquefies;
• the biliary tract expands;
• the work of the choleretic organs improves;
• the blood is refreshed.

The process of cleansing the liver at home is shown in this video:

Mineral water inhalation for cough

Inhalation with mineral water is a good addition to drug therapy and traditional medicine. The balanced composition of trace elements perfectly penetrates the body through the mucous membranes, providing anti-inflammatory and bactericidal action. Inhalation reduces asthma attacks.

For alkaline inhalations, No. 4, Borjomi, Zelenogradskaya are used.

Inhalation will result in:

• moisturizing the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract;
• facilitating the separation of accumulated sputum;
• ease of breathing.

The therapy is completely safe. To carry out inhalations with mineral water at home is using a nebulizer - a special device.

Benefits of mineral water for gout

Healing water is used to treat gout. It is a good prophylactic agent for this disease. For treatment, alkaline bicarbonate water is used. It is distinguished by its taste. The healing liquid is slightly mineralized.

Important! You should remember how to take mineral water. You need to drink it no more than three times a day.

The amount is calculated individually: 4 milliliters per 1 kilogram of weight. There is another rule of admission: drink warm, relieving gas.

Mineral water for diabetes

Such water is useful for patients with diabetes of any type. They drink it at the same time as taking medications. Mineral water enhances the therapeutic effect of medicines, promotes the removal of decay products and normalizes the work of all body systems. Regular intake reduces sugar levels, improves metabolism.

Attention! The fluid received must be of natural, not industrial origin. Excessive fluid intake is harmful to the patient.

The benefits of mineral water in case of poisoning

Vomiting and diarrhea are frequent companions of poisoning. Mineral water will help to cope with unwanted symptoms, avoid dehydration, and remove toxins.

In case of poisoning, you should consume water with a high content of trace elements that benefit digestion:

1. Potassium will restore the functioning of the digestive system.
2. Sodium helps to equalize the concentration of fluid in the body.
3. Magnesium normalizes bowel function.

Can pregnant and lactating women drink mineral water?

During pregnancy, you should drink slightly mineralized non-carbonated drinks. Healthy water perfectly quenches thirst, replenishes the loss of minerals, and normalizes the water-salt balance. Industrial mineralized water must be discarded. It will not bring benefits to the body.

Drinking mineral water after childbirth will help preserve your figure - there are not a single calorie in the drink. Thanks to the use of healing water by the mother, the baby will be provided with microelements. To avoid an excess of minerals, intake should be regulated.

Important! In case of kidney disease, it is unacceptable to drink liquid containing calcium.

Is it possible to give mineral water to children and at what age

All of the baby's systems are still so imperfect that even products that bring undeniable benefits harm them. Children should be given water from natural sources not earlier than a year of life. The drink should be slightly mineralized. Gases should be removed from it. For this purpose, table water is quite suitable. Medicinal water is prescribed by the doctor for children at least 7 years old.

The benefits of mineral water for weight loss

The benefits of groundwater for weight loss are indicated by the fact that they contain absolutely no calories. Mineral water helps to reduce weight, regulates metabolic processes, cleanses the body. For the purpose of losing weight, you should use exclusively water from natural sources.

How to drink mineral water properly

When taking water, you must adhere to the following rules:

1. Table low-mineralized water can be drunk up to 1.5-2 liters per day. It can be used for cooking. Tea is brewed with her. The exception is made by people who have contraindications for admission.
2. Medicinal table water - a prophylactic agent for many diseases. It is drunk in courses and only on the advice of a doctor.
3. Healing mineral waterIs an adjunct drug. She is discharged by a doctor. The dosage is calculated by a specialist.

How much mineral water to drink per day

They drink table mineral water, like ordinary water. Its consumption rate is up to one and a half liters per day. The use of the medical dining room should be limited to one liter per day. When taking medicinal water, you must be guided by the instructions of a specialist.

Mineral water on an empty stomach

A glass of table water in the morning on an empty stomach will help get rid of many problems:

1. Cleans the colon, which initiates the absorption process.
2. Helps to speed up metabolism.
3. Stimulates the renewal of body cells.
4. Supports the health of the lymphatic system.

The use of mineral water in cosmetology

Moisture from the bowels of the earth is used to rinse hair, remove make-up and daily cleanse the skin. To do this, the mineral water is slightly warmed up, then the face is cleaned with a damp swab.

Mineral water for face

Face masks are helpful. A cotton towel is dipped in warm mineral water and applied to a previously thoroughly washed face. So you should lie until the towel has completely cooled down. The procedure can be repeated several times. Then the face is wiped dry.

The benefits of washing with mineral water

The benefits of natural water for facial skin are contained in minerals. It is better to wash with mineral water twice a day. In the morning you should wash your face with cold water. After washing, rub your face with a hard towel. This stimulates blood circulation and activates all processes in the epidermis. Evening washing should be carried out with warm water after preliminary cleaning of the face. You do not need to wipe your face, you need to let the moisture dry. This will help to enrich the epidermis with minerals. After washing with natural water, the feeling of dryness and tightness disappears.

The benefits of mineral water for hair

Mineral water should be regarded as a wonderful natural balm. It strengthens the hair roots, moisturizes them, tones the scalp. Rinsing hair with mineral water helps to get rid of dandruff. To heal your hair, use water that is low in minerals. If the water is highly mineralized, then it will only ruin the hair, making it dry and lifeless.

How mineral water is used in cooking

Mineral water is used in cooking. The brand is important for application:

1. The kebab should be marinated in fresh Narzan.
2. Volvis will improve the taste and quality of the biscuit.
3. Selters will make minced meat light and airy.
4. Carbonate mineral water will make the dough soft and fluffy.

How to choose and store mineral water

You need to buy mineral water only in glass bottles. Glass allows keeping its natural composition longer. All information about the source, composition and manufacturer must be indicated on the bottle.

Important! The shelf life is indicated on the container. The optimum storage temperature is from +3 to +30 C.

The harm of mineral water and contraindications

Mineral water can be harmful. It is contraindicated in people with inflammation of the stomach and intestines. This is especially true of periodically exacerbated diseases. Mineral water with urolithiasis provokes the involuntary release of calculi and severe renal colic. Abuse can lead to the overflow of the body with various minerals. This will cause great damage to health.

Attention! You cannot drink water if, after drinking it, tremors of the hands, increased pressure, arrhythmia, insomnia are observed.

Conclusion

The benefits and harms of mineral water depend solely on the person. If you drink mineral water on the recommendation of a doctor, do not abuse it, when choosing to focus on your health, then it will only benefit.

Was this article helpful?

Mineral waters help with various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and genitourinary system, liver diseases and diabetes mellitus. They have a beneficial effect on the immune and endocrine systems. They also have a number of other positive properties.

Balneology (science dealing with the study of mineral water and its therapeutic and prophylactic use) divides mineral waters into:

Tablespoons (salt content up to 1 g / l). Such waters are suitable for daily consumption, they can be drunk and food prepared with them. However, people suffering from any diseases should consult a doctor before using these waters.

Medical and table (salts from 1 to 10 g / l). This type of water has some medicinal effects and is not used for cooking. Before using medicinal-table waters, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

Medicinal (with a mineralization of more than 10 g / l). They are used exclusively for medicinal purposes, in dosages recommended by a doctor.

Also mineral waters have the following categories:
The degree of mineralization (the amount of substances dissolved in water). Weak (up to 1-2 g / l), small (2-5 g / l), medium (5-15 g / l), high (13-30 g / l), brine (35-150 g / l) , strong brine (over 150 g / l).
Temperature altitude. Cold (below 20 ° C), warm (21-35 ° C), thermal (36-42 ° C), high thermal (above 42 ° C).
PH value. Strongly acidic (pH less than 3.5), acidic (pH 3.5-5.5), slightly acidic (pH 5.5-6.8), neutral (pH 6.8-7.2), slightly alkaline (pH 7, 2-8.5), alkaline (pH greater than 8.5).

In addition, depending on their ionic composition, mineral waters are subdivided into hydrocarbonate, chloride, and sulfate. And the presence of different cations in them additionally divides them into calcium, sodium and magnesium. Also, mineral waters are subdivided according to the presence of gases (carbon dioxide, sulfide, nitrogen) and microelements (iodide, bromide, siliceous)

Each type of mineral water has certain properties:

Hydrocarbonate mineral waters reduce the acidity of gastric juice, while depending on the method of application, they can both stimulate and inhibit the secretion of gastric juice. This type of water is also used in the treatment of urolithiasis.

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

Sulphated mineral waters stimulate the motility of the gastrointestinal tract. They have a good effect on the regenerative functions of the gallbladder and liver. They are used to treat diseases of the biliary tract, as well as in chronic hepatitis, diabetes and obesity.

Hydrocarbonate-sulphate medicinal table mineral waters with little or no carbon dioxide and dissolved organic matter are indicated for use by patients with chronic gastritis with increased secretory function, uncomplicated peptic ulcer and chronic diseases of the upper respiratory tract. Among such waters, the most common are: "Azovskaya", "Borzhomi", "Vyarzi-Yatchi" (Udmurt water company), "Darasun", "Minskaya", "Noyabrskaya" (OJSC "Noyabrskneftegaz"), "Slavyanovskaya" and "Smirnovskaya "(JSC" Mineral Waters of Zheleznovodsk ").

Hydrocarbonate-chloride-sulphate medicinal table and medicinal mineral waters is prescribed to patients with chronic gastritis with decreased gastric secretion. These waters include: "Azovskaya", "Yekateringofskaya" (JSC "Petrospirt" St. Petersburg), "Essentuki N4, 17" (JSC "Essentuki Mineral Water Plant"), "Zheleznovodskaya", (JSC "Mineral Waters of Zheleznovodsk" ), "Izhevskaya", "Karachinskaya" (OJSC "Karachinskoye"), "Mirgorodskaya", "Narzan" (Company "Caucasian Mineral Waters", Kislovodsk), "Silver Spring" (JSC "Deka").

Hydrocarbonate-sulphate calcium medicinal table waters use for chronic bowel diseases with increased motility. These waters include: "Borzhomi", "Krainka", "Anna Kashinskaya" (OJSC "Veresk"), "Narzan" (Company "Caucasian Mineral Waters", Kislovodsk), "Slavyanovskaya" and "Smirnovskaya" (JSC " Mineral waters of Zheleznovodsk ").

Chloride-sulphate medicinal mineral waters are indicated for patients with chronic intestinal diseases with reduced motor function, as well as for diseases of the biliary tract, diabetes mellitus, obesity and gout. There are mineral waters for them: "Izhevskaya", "Yekateringofskaya", "Essentuki 17", "Karmadon", "Lipetskaya", "Noyabrskaya" (OJSC "Noyabrskneftegaz"), "Serebryany Spring" (JSC "Deka", Novgorod ), "Semigorskaya", "Batalipskaya" (for breeding), "Lysogorskaya", "Galitskaya" and others.

Hydrocarbonate-chloride-sulphate medicinal table waters used for chronic diseases of the liver and pancreas. In such cases, they recommend: Borskaya "(ASKO)," Borzhomi "," Yekateringofskaya "," Essentuki 4 and 17 "," Silver Spring "(JSC" Deka ", Novgorod)," Smirnovskaya "(" Zheleznovodsk Mineral Water Plant ”)," Uglichskaya "," Obukhovskaya "," Moscow ".

Hydrocarbonate-sulfate and mineral-organic medicinal table waters recommended for chronic kidney and urinary tract diseases. The following waters are used for treatment: "Berezovskaya", "Borzhomi", "Narzan", "Slavyanovskaya", "Smirnovskaya" ("Zheleznovodsk Mineral Water Plant"), "Naftusya".

Ferrous medicinal table waters shown to patients with iron deficiency anemia. In St. Petersburg, one of them is produced - "Polyustrovskaya" (JSC "Polyustrovo"). Hydrocarbonate-iodine waters are applicable for the treatment of patients with thyroid diseases.

Since mineral waters have a pronounced effect on the body and, if taken incorrectly, can cause severe electrolyte disturbances, their use should only be prescribed by a doctor.

What is mineral water?

Mineral water is rainwater that went deep into the earth many centuries ago, seeping through the crevices and pores of different layers of the rock. At the same time, various mineral substances in the rock were dissolved in it. Mineral waters differ from just natural water from underground sources and open reservoirs in composition. The deeper they lie, the warmer and richer in carbon dioxide and minerals. In addition, the deeper the water penetrates into the rock, the more it is purified.

In such water, minerals accumulate naturally as it passes through geological formations. Thus, mineral waters are, first of all, the waters of underground sources.

A distinction should be made between drinking and mineral water. In accordance with the Codex Alimentarius - the main food standard of the United Nations - these differences boil down to the following:

mineral water is extracted from natural sources or drilled wells without external influence on its chemical and physical properties;

the water contains mineral salts in certain proportions, trace substances and other components;

collection of water is carried out under conditions that guarantee its initial microbiological purity and a stable chemical composition of the components existing in it.

Mineral water is prized primarily for its medicinal properties. In addition, mineral water is often used in cooking and cosmetics.

Action on the body.

The healing effect of natural mineral water consists in replacing cellular water with a partially destroyed structure with individually structured water, which allows to increase the life time and efficiency of absolutely all human cells, as well as in a beneficial complex effect on the entire body as a whole, which allows the body to independently extinguish internal foci of pathologies.

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 is able to reduce gastric secretion. Hydrocarbonate stimulates the secretory activity of the stomach. Potassium and sodium maintain the necessary pressure in tissue and interstitial body fluids. Potassium affects changes in the heart and central nervous system, while sodium retains water in the body.

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

Magnesium is well absorbed by the body, helps to reduce gallbladder spasms, lowers blood cholesterol levels, 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. Fluoride is extremely important for the body: a lack of fluoride leads to the destruction of bones, in particular teeth. Manganese has a beneficial effect on sexual development, enhances protein metabolism. Copper helps the gland convert into hemoglobin.

Iron is part of the structure of hemoglobin: its lack leads to anemia.

Carbonic mineral waters improve metabolism. Absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, carbon dioxide 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. It also affects the hormone-secreting glands: adrenal glands, pituitary gland, thyroid gland.

The taste and temperature of the mineral water have an exciting effect through the receptors on the cerebral cortex.

Indications for use.

Diseases of the stomach

Mineral water should be drunk in case of clinically pronounced symptoms of stomach pathology (gastralgia, belching with air, heartburn, etc.), changes in the secret and motor functions of the stomach. With persistent heartburn, sour belching, "late", "hungry" pains, mineral water is drunk two glasses an hour and a half before meals at a water temperature of 40-45 ° C.

In chronic gastritis with normal and increased secretory function of the stomach, treatment with mineral water is carried out for 3-4 weeks. Water is drunk warm (temperature 40 ° C) without gas, one and a half glasses 1-1.5 hours before meals 3 times a day. The "Tyumenskaya", "Isetskaya" and "Rafailovsky Monastery" are ideal as medicinal waters.

For those suffering from gastric ulcer and duodenal ulcer, mineral water must be consumed in a warm form (40-45 ° C) without carbon dioxide, one and a half to two glasses 3 times a day 1-1.5 hours before meals. Drink water slowly, in small sips.

In chronic hepatitis, drinking treatment with mineral water is carried out in time, depending on the secretory function of the stomach, 30-90 minutes before meals, two glasses. Water temperature 40-50 ° С.

For chronic infectious cholecystitis, mineral water is used at a temperature of 40-50 ° C. With an abundance of inflammatory products in the bile and the presence of pathogenic microflora in it, the dose of water is increased to 250 ml and drunk in 2-3 doses with an interval of 20-30 minutes.

In the presence of atonic and hypotonic forms of dyskinesia of the gallbladder, mineral water is used cold and weakly thermal (18-35 ° C), and in case of hypertensive dyskinesia - with a temperature of 38-50 ° C, 3 times a day, two glasses 30-90 minutes before meals (depending on the secretory function of the stomach).

Bowel disease

In case of intestinal dyskinesia with a predominance of hypotonic and hypokinetic components, mineral water is given 1 glass 3 times a day 40 minutes before meals. Water temperature - 20-25 ° С. Intestinal dyskinesias with a predominance of hypertension and hyperkinesis, on the contrary, are treated with mineral water at a temperature of 40-45 ° C, 100-150 ml is given 3 times a day.

Diseases of the genitourinary system

Mineral water has an anti-inflammatory effect, helps to unclog the kidneys and urinary tract, making it easier for stones to escape. Water is taken only warmed up (up to 40 ° C) on an empty stomach, half an hour before meals. However, the treatment process requires more frequent drinking of the specified mineral waters and in large quantities to ensure the regime of frequent urination (2-3 glasses, 3-4 times a day). For chronic diseases of the urinary tract, the mineral waters "Tyumenskaya", "Isetskaya" or "Rafailovsky Monastery" will be a good choice as a remedy.

Liver disease

For liver diseases (for example, viral hepatitis, hepatosis), mineral water is indispensable. It helps restore liver cell function. They drink it 3 times a day, always warmed up (40-45 ° C) in a gradually increasing dose, one and a half to two glasses at a time. The type of mineral water should be chosen depending on the initial secretory function of the stomach. Suitable water for the treatment of liver diseases will be "Tyumenskaya", "Isetskaya" or "Rafailovsky Monastery".

Obesity

Obese people need to drink a lot: their body's water content is greatly reduced. It is recommended to drink one and a half to two glasses of mineral water at room temperature 3 times a day 45-60 minutes before meals, after releasing all carbon dioxide. Siphon bowel lavages are also shown.

Diabetes

Mineral water treatment can slow the progression of diabetes. People with diabetes excrete large amounts of urine and have a constant feeling of thirst. Therefore, they need to recover the lost fluid.

It is generally accepted for patients with diabetes mellitus to drink mineral waters 3 times a day: before breakfast, lunch and dinner, 45-60 minutes before meals, two glasses each. In addition to drinking cure for diabetes mellitus, other methods of internal use of mineral waters can be used: administration through a duodenal probe, therapeutic enemas, siphon bowel lavage.

Contraindications

A contraindication to the appointment of mineral waters for drinking is exacerbation of chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer disease with symptoms of nausea, vomiting, pain. Mineral water treatment is also contraindicated in case of diarrhea, especially if they are aggravated as a result of its intake.

Classification.

By concentration of mineral salts

Canteen. Mineral water suitable for daily use. The salt content in it does not exceed 1 gram per liter of water, and its composition does not contain biologically active chemical microcomponents (such as boron, bromine, arsenic, etc. in concentrations acceptable for mineral waters). As a rule, it is soft, pleasant to the taste, without foreign smell and taste.

Medical dining room. This water can contain from 1 to 10 grams of salt per liter of water. The advantage of medicinal table mineral waters, which include such waters as "Tyumenskaya", "Isetskaya" and "Rafailovsky Monastery", is their multifunctionality: they can be used as a table drink and systematically - for treatment.

Therapeutic. The richest in salt composition water. This category includes mineral waters with a mineralization of more than 10 grams per liter, or waters with a high content of active trace elements, such as arsenic or boron. It should be drunk strictly on the advice of a doctor.

By origin.

Atmospheric infiltration, formed as a result of seepage into rocks of atmospheric and surface waters. They form mainly at shallow depths. Their mineralization rarely exceeds 5-15 g / l. In their anionic composition, HCO 3 - and SO 4 2- - ions prevail, and Cl - ions are either absent altogether or play a subordinate role. Waters of atmospheric origin are characterized by different cationic composition and constant gas composition (CO 2 or N 2). Among carbonic waters, the most common are hydrocarbonate and hydrocarbonate-sulfate waters of various cationic composition. Among the nitrogen waters of atmospheric origin, there are widespread low-mineralized siliceous thermal waters that form in difficult-to-leach crystalline rocks, and sulfate and sulfate-chloride waters, genetically associated with carbonate sedimentary rocks enriched in gypsum and anhydrite.

Sedimentation (sedimentary), formed as a result of the burial and transformation of sea water. They form in horizons with extremely difficult water exchange. The salinity of sedimentation water varies from 10-20 to 35 g / l, and strong and ultra-strong brines reaches 150-650 g / l. The anionic composition is dominated by chloride ions, which are a stable component of sea water. In the absence of SO 4 2 - ions, waters of marine origin often contain a lot of bromine, iodine and boron. Being sodium or calcium in terms of their cationic composition, these waters are often enriched with Li, Sr, Rb compounds and organic substances. The main gas composition is represented by N 2 and CH 4 of biochemical origin, less often CO 2. Among sedimentary waters, hydrocarbonate-chloride sodium and chloride sodium, as a rule, methane, as well as chloride calcium-sodium, mainly nitrogen waters, are widespread. Carbonic waters of marine origin are mainly related to hydrocarbonate-sulphate-chloride and chloride sodium and sodium-calcium waters.

Magmatic (juvenile), arising from the condensation of endogenous vapors and gases. The widespread participation of magmatic eruptions in the formation of groundwater, substantiated at the beginning of the 20th century. by the Viennese geologist E. Suess, is currently disputed by most researchers. Only partial participation of condensing magmatic vapors and gases in the feeding of some types of thermal waters in zones of active volcanism is allowed.

Mixed, formed as a result of the displacement of ancient sedimentary waters by young infiltration waters.

By production method.

In addition to natural mineral waters, there are also artificially mineralized waters.

The production of artificially saline water goes through two stages. First, water is pumped out from an artesian well or a water supply system, then it is deeply purified. Thorough filtration removes not only harmful impurities, but also all useful salts and minerals. The second stage is the saturation of purified water with salts. The output is not an active living medium, but just a solution of salts. Artificial or reconstituted water according to GOST belongs to the class of non-alcoholic beverages and has nothing to do with mineral waters.

By temperature.

Very cold (0-4 ° C).

Cold (4-20 ° C).

Subthermal (20-37 ° C).

Thermal (37-42 ° C).

Hyperthermal (over 42 ° C).

By chemical composition.

The composition of mineral waters consists mainly of salts of three basic acids, called macrocomponents: negatively charged ions (anions) of coal, called bicarbonates (HCO 3 - anion), hydrochloric - chlorides (Cl - anion), sulfuric - sulfates (SO 3 2- anion) ). Of the positively charged salt ions (cations), the main macrocomponent composition of mineral waters is sodium (Na + cation), calcium (Ca 2+ cation) and magnesium (Mg 2+ cation).

Hydrocarbonate waters. Reduces the acidity of gastric juice. At the same time, depending on the method of application, they can both stimulate and inhibit the secretion of gastric juice. They are used in the treatment of urolithiasis. This group includes such popular waters as Narzan and Borjomi.

Chloride waters. They stimulate metabolic processes in the body, improve the secretion of the stomach, pancreas, small intestine. They are used for disorders of the digestive system. The well-known Essentuki brand waters, as well as the products of the Siberian Mineral Company, are classified as sodium chloride.

Sulphate waters. They stimulate the motility of the gastrointestinal tract, have a particularly beneficial effect on the restoration of the function of the liver and gallbladder. They are used for diseases of the biliary tract, chronic hepatitis, diabetes mellitus, obesity.

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

Mineral waters, in addition to the main salt macrocomponent composition, often contain impurities of other chemical elements in microscopic amounts (microcomponents), which can also have a significant therapeutic or stabilizing effect on a living organism. The microcomponents of mineral water are usually those substances that, in larger quantities, are usually considered poisons for the body. All these substances (elements) are present in very small (trace) amounts in the human body and are usually part of various enzymes, constantly participating in the process of water-salt metabolism. Therefore, they must be constantly replenished, including from water. The absence of one or some of them can lead to various human diseases.

For example, silicon is found in the hair and in the lens of the eye. Iodine is concentrated in the thyroid gland and is part of the hormone it produces - thyroxine, which regulates the level of protein, carbohydrate fat metabolism, and the activity of the nervous system. The daily requirement for iodine is not great and is only 100 mcg, but if it is not administered, then chronic diseases occur.

Boron and arsenic are specific microcomponents of mineral waters. In biotic doses, arsenic is considered a vital element. It participates in the synthesis of hemoglobin, in the processes of oxidation and nucleic acid metabolism.

Mineral waters are distinguished with the presence of specific components. Here are some of them:

ferrous (iron content not less than 20 mg / l);

arsenic (arsenic content not less than 0.2 mg / l);

How to identify a fake.

Poor quality water can be identified by external signs. Table water should be free from film odor and sediment. True, it must be borne in mind that there are medicinal waters in which a slight sediment is allowed, but this assumption does not apply to ordinary table drinking water, which is used for drinking and cooking.

Fake mineral water is not produced from a well. The minimum cost allows its producers to dump. Therefore, a low price (15-20% cheaper than the market average) can be considered a sign of a fake.

You should also pay attention to the date of water release: original products are not delayed in warehouses. If the water was released more than half a year ago, it is most likely a fake.

Before buying mineral water, you need to learn how to read the label. Each label must include the following information:

the degree of mineralization of water in grams per liter;

chemical composition, purpose (dining room, medical, medical dining room), as well as indications for therapeutic use;

the name of the group (sodium bicarbonate, chlorine-sulfate, sodium, etc.);

well number or source name;

year, month and day of bottling;

volume in liters, storage conditions and shelf life;

manufacturer's trademark, trade mark;

manufacturer's address (if the water is imported, then the name and address of the importer);

number of GOST or TU.