From the Faucet: 3 Reasons to Choose Tap Water

By Jill Feilmeier on August 14, 2014 in Healthy Living

As spring is underway, and the dog days of summer are just around the corner, it's necessary to stay hydrated in order to help your body function properly. With COVID-19 restrictions easing around the state and country, most of us are eager to get outside, getting active and fueling up on water should be a priority. But even if you’re not active you still need to drink plenty of water to ensure your body and mind perform at their best. Your blood pumps easier, and your body is able to remove waste more effectively when you drink an adequate amount of liquids, especially water. Keep in mind, not all liquids are created equal.

Often times people turn to soda and sports drinks to quench their thirst. While occasional indulgence is usually okay, here are three reasons why you should choose tap water instead of bottled water and sugary drinks.

1. Tap water contains fluoride. It's true that nearly all natural water contains some level of fluoride, but in many cities water is fluoridated to the optimal level in order to fight tooth decay. New research is also finding high levels of “microplastics” in disposable water bottles levels of microplastics in tap water, impacting overall health. Choosing tap water in place of bottled water, or other bottled drinks, will not only help save the environment (goodbye, plastic!), but it will also give your teeth decay-fighting superpowers.
2. Tap water is sugar-free! Unlike common sports drinks, water contains no cavity-causing sugars. In fact, one 20 oz. bottle of a common sports drink can contain up to 40 grams of added sugar! Soft drinks, flavored teas, and coffee drinks can contain even more sugar. Don’t forget that the American Heart Association has a recommended amount of daily sugar intake of 36 grams for men, and 25 grams for women. Save yourself empty calories and avoid tooth and health troubles by bringing along a refillable water bottle on your spring and summer outings.
3. Tap water is more affordable. If you are loyal to bottled water, chances are good that you're spending nearly 2,000 times more money than tap-water fans. An estimated $34.6 billion was spent on bottled water in 2019. This puts the price per gallon of bottled water between $5-9 per gallon, which is a stark contrast to the $.004 cost of 1 gallon of tap water. The story is even worse for sugary drinks: Americans spend an estimated $65 billion per year.

The reasons to drink tap water over bottled water, along with other sugary drinks, are numerous. The cost and health implications are significant and can be harmful. Water is critical for our bodies and minds; it shouldn’t be lost that tap water can also benefit our teeth. So, the question is, will you make the switch?

Need some other ideas on other healthy ways to get your hydration? Read our article HERE.

*Updated April 2021*