When you’re pregnant, staying hydrated is extremely important. Drinking plenty of water helps your body maintain amniotic fluid levels, prevents dehydration and constipation, and may help prevent urinary tract infections and preterm labor. Many pregnant women wonder if bottled water is a healthier choice than tap water. Here’s what you need to know about the best bottled waters to drink during pregnancy.
Is bottled water better than tap water during pregnancy?
In most cases, tap water in the United States is just as safe as bottled water. The EPA regulates public water systems and requires frequent testing for bacteria and other contaminants. Unless your tap water tastes bad or you know there are issues with your local water supply, tap water is generally fine to drink during pregnancy.
However, there are a few potential advantages to bottled water:
- Bottled water often tastes better than tap water, which may encourage you to drink more fluids.
- Bottled water tends to contain lower levels of chlorine and other chemicals used to disinfect public water supplies.
- Some bottled waters contain added minerals and electrolytes for taste and health benefits.
- Bottled water in sealed containers may be safer if you live in an area with potential contamination issues.
Overall, as long as you’re drinking plenty of water during pregnancy, the source is not as critical. But bottled water can be a convenient way to increase your fluid intake if you struggle to drink plain tap water.
What should I look for in a pregnancy-safe bottled water?
When choosing a bottled water for pregnancy:
- Select a major national brand that undergoes frequent testing.
- Avoid “artesian well water” or water bottled and sold locally, which is less regulated.
- Check the label and choose bottled water with a pH around 7, which is neutral.
- Avoid flavors and added sugar.
- Look for added minerals like calcium and magnesium for bone health.
- Make sure the bottled water is sealed properly to prevent contamination.
Higher quality bottled waters will often provide details about the water source and filtering methods on the label. This information can help you determine how pure and safe the water is for pregnancy.
What are the healthiest bottled water brands for pregnancy?
Some great options for healthy bottled waters during pregnancy include:
Evian
Evian is a popular high-end bottled water sourced from protected springs in France. It has a neutral, slightly mineralized taste. Evian water contains:
- Very low sodium levels
- Moderate calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonate
- pH around 7
- No added ingredients
Fiji
Fiji bottled water comes from an artesian aquifer in the Fiji islands. It has high mineral content, including:
- Calcium – For strong bones
- Magnesium – To regulate blood pressure
- Silica – For healthy skin, hair, and nails
The silica content is higher than most bottled waters. Fiji water also has a neutral 7.7 pH.
Icelandic Glacial
True to its name, Icelandic Glacial is sourced from the naturally alkaline water that melts from glaciers in Iceland. It is very pure and free of minerals. Benefits include:
- Low mineral content for a clean, neutral taste
- High purity filtering process
- Naturally alkaline 8.4 pH
Smartwater
Smartwater is purified municipal water with added electrolytes for taste. The added electrolytes include:
- Calcium chloride
- Magnesium chloride
- Potassium bicarbonate
The purity of municipal water sources combined with light mineralization makes Smartwater a good choice during pregnancy.
Life WTR
Life WTR alkalizes and ionizes purified municipal tap water by:
- Adding magnesium chloride and calcium chloride
- Including alkaline pH of 8+
- Infusing with electrolytes
The company also invests proceeds to support access to clean drinking water globally.
Are flavored or vitamin waters good when pregnant?
Plain, unflavored bottled water is best during pregnancy. Many flavored waters contain added sugars and artificial sweeteners like sucralose to enhance taste. There is some controversy over whether artificial sweeteners are safe during pregnancy.
While more research is still needed, you may want to avoid artificial sweeteners until more is known about their effects. Excess sugar should also be limited.
Similarly, some vitamin-enhanced waters have extremely high levels of vitamins and minerals, which can be dangerous in pregnancy when your nutrient needs are already increased. Excessive vitamin A, vitamin D, or sodium levels can be harmful.
Instead of flavored waters, opt for adding a squeeze of lemon, lime, orange, or other fresh fruits to your water to enhance the taste naturally without sugar or additives.
Should I drink mineral water when pregnant?
Mineral water refers to bottled water that naturally contains minerals, usually because the source water interacts with rocks and mineral deposits underground. Mineral water often contains higher amounts of elements like magnesium, calcium, and iron compared to purified water.
Mineral water can be a great choice during pregnancy because it provides these beneficial minerals naturally. Look for mineral water with lower sodium levels and avoid mineral waters that are highly carbonated or salty tasting.
Is carbonated water okay to drink during pregnancy?
Some bottled waters contain added carbonation for a fizzy soda-like taste. Carbonated water is generally safe during pregnancy as long as it does not contain added sugar or artificial sweeteners. However, some women may experience discomfort from the carbonation, gas, or bubbles. If carbonated water gives you digestive issues, try sticking to still water instead.
Can bottled water help prevent pregnancy swelling?
Drinking plenty of water from any source can help minimize swelling or edema during pregnancy. Water reduces fluid retention and helps flush out excess sodium from your bloodstream to reduce swelling in your feet, ankles, and limbs.
Some bottled waters may be specifically useful for reducing swelling:
- Low sodium water – Reduces fluid retention caused by excess sodium.
- Mineral water – Magnesium and potassium help counter fluid retention.
- Electrolyte water – Electrolytes promote circulation and flushing of fluids.
Be sure to avoid sugary vitamin waters with electrolytes, which can have too much sugar. Overall, drinking about 8-12 glasses of water from a clean source can optimize hydration and circulation.
What temperature should I drink bottled water during pregnancy?
Cold water may be more palatable and easier to drink in large quantities during pregnancy. But there is no evidence that cold water specifically is better than room temperature or warm water when pregnant.
The temperature you drink water at is mainly a matter of personal preference. If you dislike cold water, drinking lukewarm or hot water can keep you just as hydrated. The keys are staying hydrated and choosing clean, pure water sources.
How can I ensure bottled water is safe during pregnancy?
To keep bottled water safe for pregnancy:
- Read the bottle label and choose a known purified brand.
- Avoid bottled water that seems cloudy or contaminated.
- Check that the safety seal is intact before opening.
- Wash reusable water bottles thoroughly between refills.
- Don’t reuse disposable water bottles.
- Don’t drink bottled water that has been left in hot sun or heat.
Pregnant women have a higher risk of illness from pathogens like viruses, parasites, and bacteria that could potentially contaminate water sources. Taking precautions helps minimize any waterborne risks.
Can room temperature bottled water make you sick when pregnant?
Drinking room temperature water during pregnancy is generally safe. However, it is possible for room temperature bottled water to allow some bacterial growth if stored for too long.
To minimize risk of illness:
- Drink bottled water within 6 months of purchase.
- Don’t drink bottled water that has been opened for more than 6 months.
- Avoid water that smells or tastes abnormal.
- Refrigerate after opening and finish within a few days.
Practice good hygiene when handling bottled water by washing hands before drinking and cleaning reusable bottles. If in doubt, stick to chilled bottled water or hot water that has been freshly boiled and cooled.
Does bottled water expire or go bad?
Bottled water itself does not really expire in the way milk or food does. However, bottled water does have a shelf life after which it is best to avoid drinking it.
An unopened bottle of commercially bottled water will stay fresh and safe to drink for:
- 12-18 months for uncarbonated water
- 5-6 months for carbonated water
After opening, bottled water should be used within:
- 6 months for high mineral content or carbonated water
- 1-2 weeks for water with low mineral content
If bottled water smells bad, tastes off, or looks cloudy or contaminated, it is best to discard it beyond the use by date.
Can tap water be dangerous during pregnancy?
High quality tap water that comes from a municipal water supply in developed countries is generally safe in pregnancy. However, tap water can become dangerous if it becomes contaminated with:
- Bacteria like E. coli
- Parasitic organisms like Giardia
- Chemicals such as lead, arsenic, or nitrates
Illnesses from contaminated tap water are rare in areas with modern water treatment. But if you suspect issues with your local tap water, boiling water before use or opting for bottled water may be preferable during pregnancy.
Is it safe to drink unfiltered tap water while pregnant?
In most cases, unfiltered tap water from public water systems in developed areas is safe to drink during pregnancy. These water sources undergo disinfection and filtering at municipal treatment facilities.
However, additional in-home filtration using a carbon filter, reverse osmosis system, or pitcher filter can provide extra reassurance. In-home filters remove residual chlorine, heavy metals, microorganisms, and trace contaminants for the cleanest tasting water.
Well water from private sources should always be filtered and boiled before drinking when pregnant due to higher contamination risks.
Can dehydration cause problems during pregnancy?
Dehydration during pregnancy can cause several problems, including:
- Neural tube defects early in pregnancy
- Intrauterine growth restriction
- Premature rupture of membranes
- Gestational hypertension
- Braxton Hicks contractions
- Preterm labor
- Oligohydramnios (low amniotic fluid)
- Ketonemia
- Maternal and fetal electrolyte imbalances
Drinking sufficient clean water is vital for staying hydrated and avoiding complications. Carry a reusable water bottle and drink frequently, along with other hydrating beverages like milk and juices.
How much water should you drink per day while pregnant?
Most guidelines recommend pregnant women drink about 80-100 oz (10-12 cups) of total beverages per day. Pure water should make up a significant portion of your daily fluid intake.
Aim to drink approximately 40-50 oz (5-6 cups) of water alone. Increase your intake during hot weather or exercise. The best way to meet your fluid needs is to sip water constantly throughout the day.
Does drinking more water keep baby healthy?
Yes, drinking plenty of clean water during pregnancy keeps both you and baby healthy in the following ways:
- Maintains amniotic fluid levels for proper fetal development.
- Carries nutrients and oxygen to the baby through increased blood volume.
- Prevents dehydration, neural tube defects, and growth issues.
- Flushes out toxins and waste products from mom’s and baby’s system.
- Prevents pregnancy complications like preterm labor.
- Eases pregnancy symptoms such as swelling, headaches, nausea, and constipation.
- May help control labor pains and delivery outcomes.
Good maternal hydration reduces the risks of birth defects, infection, dangerous swelling, and preterm delivery. Drink up for your health and your baby’s wellbeing!
Does lemon water count toward daily water intake when pregnant?
Yes, lemon water can absolutely count towards your daily fluid goals during pregnancy. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to your glass of water gives it some light flavor, which may help you drink more.
However, make sure you are still drinking plenty of plain water rather than relying entirely on lemon water. And avoid using too much lemon juice, which could potentially damage tooth enamel over time due to acidity.
Should you drink lemon water at night while pregnant?
There is no evidence that drinking lemon water at night is unsafe during pregnancy. Many women enjoy the ritual of sipping warm lemon water before bed.
However, drinking any fluids shortly before sleep could mean more middle-of-the-night bathroom trips. And some women experience acid reflux at night, which can be worsened by lemon. Pay attention to your body’s signals and avoid drinking large amounts late in the evening.
Conclusion
When it comes to the best bottled water for pregnancy, focus on choosing major brands that use purification methods like reverse osmosis or distillation. Look for neutral pH levels around 7 and low sodium content. Avoid bottled waters with excessive carbonation, added flavors, vitamins, or mineral content.
Read labels closely and do research on water sources and safety testing to find the cleanest options. High quality bottled water provides healthy hydration for pregnancy without risks from contaminants that tap water could occasionally contain.
Staying hydrated with plain, pure water is one of the most important things you can do during pregnancy both for your health and your baby’s. Make drinking plenty of water a priority every single day.
