Minerals Common to Natural Water Sources

Magnesium controls muscle contraction, protein metabolism, blood coagulation, and energy production, among other vital tasks. Failure to take in enough magnesium over time leads to high blood pressure and osteoporosis.

Adults should consume 1000-1200 mg of calcium per day.

Sodium naturally occurs in water supplies in varying amounts due to underground salt deposits and sea water. It is also added to water supplies in some areas to make it "soft" (or through home water softeners), and used for water purification in the form of sodium hypochlorite.

Potassium is critical in maintaining proper electrolyte and acid - alkaline balance.

Magnesium

Magnesium controls muscle contraction, protein metabolism, blood coagulation, and energy production, among other vital tasks. Failure to take in enough magnesium over time leads to high blood pressure and osteoporosis.

That said, not only does this mineral aid in body functions, it can also help prevent disease. Studies show that magnesium in drinking water protects against the deaths of patients with diabetes mellitus, and prevents the development of cerebrovascular disease. Magnesium also lowers the risk of fatality from acute myocardial infarction (heart disease), particularly in females. In high-risk patients, magnesium is recommended to protect against gastric cancer.

Calcium

Adults should consume 1000-1200 mg of calcium per day. The human body needs calcium to develop strong teeth and bones. With that, calcium can combat osteoporosis and other bone disorders. It also helps in regulating nerve transmission, blood coagulation, and muscle contraction.

Sodium

Sodium naturally occurs in water supplies in varying amounts due to underground salt deposits and sea water. It is also added to water supplies in some areas to make it "soft" (or through home water softeners), and used for water purification in the form of sodium hypochlorite.

Necessary for transporting nutrients throughout the body and balancing fluid levels, sodium is best known for its negative effects—namely raising blood pressure. So, those with high blood pressure may want to avoid water with high levels of sodium. However, in moderate amounts (under 3000 mg daily), sodium is perfectly safe.

Potassium

Potassium is critical in maintaining proper electrolyte and acid - alkaline balance. Potassium plays a fundamental role in cellular exchanges. Potassium deficiency may lead to poor energy, lack of strength as well as cramping. A diet that contains sufficient amounts may reduce the risk of high blood pressure and stroke, as well as soothe feelings of anxiety, irritability and stress.