By Dr. David L. Pollack

As a health professional, I know that many of us often look for shortcuts when it comes to improving our well-being. With so many slick marketing campaigns out there, it’s easy to be swayed into buying products that promise more than they deliver. In recent years, various types of special waters have flooded the market, and while staying hydrated with clean water is crucial, not all waters are created equal.

We’ve all seen the buzz around “smart” waters, coconut waters, alkaline, reverse osmosis, steam distilled, and filtered waters. But do these waters really live up to their claims?

Let’s start with “smart” or electrolyte-added waters. They’re usually just purified tap water with some salts added back. The labels often feature terms like “balanced” or “hydration” to make them sound superior. While the filtration removes many toxins, which is good, the added salts are mostly just for taste and offer no substantial health benefits.

Then there’s alkaline water. Some believe it can help alkalize the body, claiming that disease only thrives in an acidic environment. While there’s a connection between acidity and disease, the real question is whether the acidity is causing the disease or vice versa. High-alkaline waters can neutralize stomach acid, disrupting digestion, especially protein digestion—not exactly what we want for our health.

So, what are the best waters to drink? I recommend keeping it simple: lemon water, coconut water and filtered water. Drinking lemon water is one of the most alkalizing actions you can take. Despite its acidity, lemon water actually helps make the body alkaline. It emulsifies fat, supports gallbladder function, aids digestion, and promotes overall better body function.

Coconut water is another great choice. It’s rich in minerals, including potassium, and provides excellent nutrition. And finally, filtered water is key for maintaining purity. Multi-stage filtration systems are the most effective, using various methods to remove harmful compounds from the water.

When it comes to your water choices, stick with high-quality filtered water, with or without organic lemon, and moderate your use of coconut water. By doing this, you’ll be drinking the healthiest waters for a healthier you.

For more personalized advice, visit us at Pollack Wellness or contact us for an appointment.

Dr. David L. Pollack, founder of Pollack Wellness, 66 Commack Rd., #204, Commack, NY. For appointments or information, call 631-462-0801 or visit PollackWellness.com.