What Type of Water Is Best for the Human Body? A Science-Based Look at Hydration, Health and Filtration

Introduction

Water is essential for human health, energy levels, and physical performance. Yet there is ongoing debate about what type of water is “best” for the body - filtered, mineral, purified, alkaline or something else. This article looks at what science and public health authorities actually say about optimal drinking water, and how common household filtration systems can help people access clean, consistent water without making unsupported claims.

What the Human Body Needs From Water

The primary role of drinking water is hydration. According to health authorities, the most important characteristics of drinking water are that it is:

• Microbiologically safe
• Chemically safe
• Pleasant enough to encourage regular consumption

Water itself does not provide energy (calories), but adequate hydration supports:

• Cognitive function
• Physical performance
• Temperature regulation
• Digestive and kidney function

Source:
World Health Organization – Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality

Minerals in Drinking Water: Helpful, But Not Essential

Natural minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium are often present in tap or mineral water. While these minerals are important nutrients, drinking water is not a major dietary source for most people.

Health authorities consistently state that:

• Most essential minerals should come from food
• Low-mineral water is still safe for healthy adults
• Extremely low mineral intake may matter only in specific circumstances

Source:
World Health Organization – Nutrients in Drinking Water

Common Filtration Options That Improve Water Quality

Different filtration systems address different concerns:

Carbon Filters (Fridge, Jug, Undersink)

• Improve taste and odour
• Reduce chlorine and some organic compounds
• Widely accessible and low maintenance

Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems

• Reduce dissolved solids and many chemical contaminants
• Produce very neutral-tasting water
• Often used where water quality or salinity is a concern

Whole-Home Filtration

• Improves water quality for all taps
• Reduces sediment and chlorine throughout the house
• Does not usually remove dissolved minerals

Each option supports hydration by making water more palatable and consistent, rather than by delivering specific health benefits.

Claims About “Energy-Boosting” or “Alkaline” Water

Some products claim to increase energy, balance pH, or improve health outcomes. At present:

• The body tightly regulates blood pH regardless of water type

• There is limited high-quality evidence supporting energy or performance claims from altered water chemistry alone

Health authorities emphasise hydration, not water modification, as the key factor.

Source:
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health - Water and Hydration

Conclusion

There is no single “perfect” water for everyone. The strongest health benefit comes from consistent hydration, not from specialised water types. Filtration can improve taste, consistency and confidence in drinking water, making it easier for people to stay well hydrated - which supports overall health and energy levels in a practical, evidence-based way.

In saying that let's explore water types soon! Stay tuned.