Sodium-Rich Brands Of Bottled Water

For some individuals, finding bottled water with higher sodium levels is not a concern but a deliberate choice. Whether you’re an athlete seeking to replenish lost electrolytes, or simply someone who prefers the taste of water with a hint of saltiness, this article is your guide to exploring brands of water high in sodium.

In this article, we’ll explore brands of bottled water with the highest sodium levels, the effect of sodium on the body and on athletic performance and cover recommended intake limits.

What Is Sodium?

Sodium is the sixth most abundant element in the Earth’s crust. 

It can naturally find its way into groundwater through geological processes. However, human activities, such as road salt application, can also introduce excess sodium into natural water sources.

The most common form of sodium is Sodium Chloride (NaCl), commonly known as table salt. Due to this prevalence, the terms “sodium” and “salt” are often used interchangeably.

Brands of Water High in Sodium

Spring water generally has a moderate amount of sodium ranging from 10 to 50 mg per liter. 

Mineral water usually has the highest sodium levels of any bottled water.

Many brands of water are first purified and then have minerals such as sodium, potassium and calcium added back in to make for taste. However, these are relatively low in sodium compared to spring or mineral water.

Now, let’s dive into four brands of bottled water with the highest sodium levels:

1. Gerolsteiner

Sourced from the volcanic Eifel region in Germany, this water boasts a sodium concentration of 118 milligrams per liter.

It also contains bicarbonate, calcium, and magnesium, giving it a balanced taste. Available in glass and PET bottles.

2. Badoit

Hailing from the Plaine du Forez region in France, Badoit offers a gourmet experience with a sodium content of 150 milligrams per liter.

The water is extracted from deep rock springs under high pressure, resulting in its unique taste. Sold in plastic bottles.

3. Calistoga

Collected and bottled in the USA, Calistoga’s source lies in the mineral-rich geyser springs of Upper Napa Valley, California.

Its sodium content is approximately 170 milligrams per liter, making it one to watch for. This water is bottled in glass after surfacing at its boiling point.

4. Vichy Catalan

Drink two of these bad boys and you’re nearly at your maximum daily recommended intake for sodium! Originating from Girona, Spain, this brand draws water from the Puig de les Animes thermal spring.

The rock formations at this source are sodium-rich, resulting in an astonishing 1,097 milligrams of sodium per liter of Vichy Catalan mineral water. The water comes out from the spring at boiling point.

Health Effects of Sodium on the Human Body

Sodium is essential for good health, as it plays a critical role in nerve impulse conduction and muscle function. It also helps maintain the delicate balance of water both inside and outside our cells.

According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, a daily sodium intake of no more than 2,300 mg is recommended to replace the sodium lost through sweat, urine, and other bodily processes.

When sodium levels are too low, a condition called hyponatremia can occur, leading to symptoms like restlessness, muscle twitching, cramps, dizziness, weakness, and other symptoms.

Conversely, excessive sodium intake can result in hypernatremia, characterized by intense thirst and more severe health problems such as hypertension, kidney damage, and stroke.

Who Needs to Watch Their Sodium Intake?

The United States Food and Drug Administration reveals that most Americans consume between 4,000 and 6,000 mg of sodium daily, significantly surpassing the recommended limit.

What’s surprising is that drinking water can contribute significantly to our sodium intake. Some bottled water brands contain remarkably high sodium levels, potentially elevating your daily intake without you realizing it.

Athletes and highly active individuals naturally eliminate excess sodium through sweat and may even want to supplement their consumption.

However, those with conditions like high blood pressure, hypertension, and heart issues or do not commit to a rigorous exercise schedule should be cautious about their sodium intake.

The Environmental Protection Agency recommends that sodium concentration in drinking water should not exceed 30 to 60 mg per liter.

The Role of Sodium in Athletic Performance

While excessive sodium intake can have adverse health effects for the general population, there are certain scenarios where individuals, particularly athletes and those engaged in intense physical activities, may have specific needs for added sodium.

Here’s how sodium plays a role in their performance and hydration:

1. Rehydration:

Athletes who engage in vigorous physical activities, especially in hot and humid conditions, can lose substantial amounts of sodium through sweat. Sodium helps retain water in the body and prevents excessive fluid loss. Electrolyte drinks or sports drinks are commonly used by athletes to replenish lost sodium, along with other essential electrolytes like potassium and magnesium.

However, drinking a bottle of sodium-rich mineral water will give you about the same amount of sodium as a 28 fl oz Powerade (160 mg/L sodium).

2. Muscle Function:

Sodium is vital for proper muscle contraction and relaxation. Athletes, particularly endurance athletes and those participating in high-intensity training, rely on sodium to maintain muscle function during prolonged physical exertion. Sodium helps prevent muscle cramps and fatigue.

3. Fluid Balance:

Maintaining a precise fluid balance is crucial for athletes. Sodium plays a key role in regulating the distribution of water inside and outside cells. Ensuring an adequate sodium intake helps athletes maintain the necessary fluid balance, which is essential for overall performance and avoiding dehydration.

In summary, while sodium intake should be moderated for the general population, athletes have unique needs due to the substantial sodium losses they experience during intense physical activities. Proper hydration and sodium balance are critical for peak athletic performance and recovery, making it essential for athletes to pay attention to their sodium intake.