Rana Good is the founder of Naïra NYC. A writer for publications such as Forbes, Travel + Leisure, Coveteur, Mens Journal and others, she created her own platform celebrating women of color.
We’ve all heard that hydration is the key to health but what if you’re not in the mood for plain water? There are tons of other waters out there with a range of flavors, colors, and healthy ingredients. Here are nine types of water to sip for better wellbeing.
1. Alkaline Water
Alkaline water is water that has been treated to increase its pH level and is also as ionized water. This can be done through a variety of methods, but the most common is by adding minerals such as calcium or magnesium. Proponents of alkaline water claim that it is better for hydration than plain water because the increased pH level makes it easier for your body to absorb the water. Additionally, it’s said that alkaline water can help to flush toxins from your body and improve your overall health. We love Flow Water which comes in portable tetra packs with beautiful packaging that’s also 100 percent recyclable. Plain is the standard flavor but there’s also everything from cucumber mint to blackberry hibiscus to lemon ginger in their assortment. There are even collagen-infused options — if you want to encourage skin glow while you sip your alkaline water.
2. Chlorophyll Water
Chlorophyll water is a hydrating green elixir with many reported benefits, from helping you detox to boosting your energy levels. When you drink this molecule that helps plants to convert sunlight into energy in plants, it’s a potent detoxifier. Chlorophyll binds to heavy metals and other toxins in the body, helping to flush them out. It also increases oxygen uptake, delivering more oxygen to the cells and giving you a boost of energy. Plus, it’s packed with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory benefits. We love this specific brand of chlorophyll water which also features lemon and spearmint flavors, making it extra refreshing.
3. Cactus Water
Probably the most unique water on the list but truly thirst-quenching. Known as the desert hydrator, cactus water is one of the few liquids that exist in the arid, scorching desert climate. Cactus water is filled with antioxidants, iron, and potassium. It can help fight inflammation and dehydration, aid digestion, and is also said to be an excellent hangover cure. We love ¡Cactus! Which also includes 130 percent of your daily Vitamin C needs. The watermelon flavor screams summer and is a must with some refreshing ice cubes on a hot day.
4. MUD\WTR
Looking for a natural jolt of energy that you can just pour into water? Meet MUD\WTR a travel-friendly blend of adaptogens, ayurvedic herbs, and cacao that will give you natural energy and help you focus without having an energy crash like many people do with coffee. Some of the ingredients include lion’s mane, chaga, cordyceps, turmeric and cinnamon. The product is 100 percent organic and is a great way to stay energized natural at home or on the road.
5. Sparkling Water
Sparkling water is such a simple but tasty pleasure — all of the excitement of soda without any of the calories and sugar. Out of all the types of water on this list it’s also the easiest one for you to create at home whenever you like. You’ll definitely want to make sparkling water all the time with this chic Aarke Black Chrome Carbonator 3 in black which merges design with hydration.
6. Aloe Vera Water
Turns out aloe vera isn’t just good for your skin, it’s also great to drink and has positive effects on your digestive system. Studies have shown that it helps with heartburn and aloe vera juice also contains a variety of vitamins. When bottled many manufacturers add sugar for taste but we like this type which doesn’t.
7. Maple Water
You’ve probably had maple syrup but have you had maple water? This water was shown to hydrate at twice the speed of regular water and is filled with polyphenols and antioxidants. It’s also said that if you drink maple water before going out and consuming alcohol it can help metabolize booze quicker making you feel better the next day. Can’t report yet if that’s true but will definitely give it a go.
8. Watermelon Water
It’s not called watermelon for anything — watermelon water is hydrating and filled with minerals that are good for you. It’s said that watermelon is particularly good post-workout as it’s filled with potassium which can help manage soreness and cramps. Watermelon water is refreshing and just a little sweet, making it the perfect warm-weather drink.
9. Birch Water
Out of all of the types of waters on this list, this one might be the most elusive unless you’re in certain parts of Europe or China where birch water is consumed regularly. Birch water has a slightly sweet flavor but is low in calories, yet very rich in manganese which is excellent for bone health. It’s hydrating and said to have beautifying benefits, making it a fabulous thirst-quencher.