Water, mineral waters and health

The authors focus on water resources and the use of mineral waters in human nutrition, especially in the different stages of life, in physical activity and in the presence of some morbid conditions. Mineral water is characterized by its purity at source, its content in minerals, trace elements and other constituents, its conservation and its heating properties recognized by the Ministry of Health after clinical and pharmacological trials. Based on total salt content in grams after evaporation of 11 mineral water dried at 180 degrees C (dry residues), mineral waters can be classified as: waters with a very low mineral content, waters tow in mineral content, waters with a medium mineral content, and strongly mineralized waters. Based on ion composition mineral waters can be classified as: bicarbonate waters, sulfate waters, sodium chloride or saltwater, sulfurous waters. Based on biological activity mineral waters can be classified as: diuretic waters, cathartic waters, waters with antiphlogistic properties. Instructions for use, doses, and current regulations are included. (C) 2005 Elsevier Ltd and European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. All rights reserved.