Madison Lorenz
Drinking water has long been touted as one of the most significant ways to maintain a healthy body. Skin breaking out? Drink more water. Mood out of whack? Yep, water can help with that, too. The U.S. Geological Survey says that the human adult body is made up of about 60% water, so it’s really no surprise that replenishing this vital life force has such beneficial outcomes. But what about the minerals found in water that also occur naturally in our bodies? Do we need to supplement them in our drinking water?
Weeding through the supplement world can be a bit overwhelming. With daily multivitamins, adaptogens, and everything in between, it can start to feel like our diets are overloaded with pills and potions. That’s why when we heard about the benefits of adding minerals to drinking water, we turned to Shiva Rose, author of Whole Beauty and The Local Rose, to help make sense of it all. Kourt was intrigued by Shiva and her wellness method, and through learning about her routine, the two have become good friends.
Kourtney Kardashian Barker
You might be surprised to learn that water does not contain minerals when it falls from the sky—the minerals actually come from contact with ground soil. But modern agricultural practices have led to widespread soil depletion. “These minerals used to be available in our rich soil, but now they’re not, and that is an issue,” explained Shiva. And even if the water source starts out rich in minerals, it might not stay that way. “With water filtration, we lose many of the minerals that we need,” said Shiva. Major methods of water filtration keep our water safe but can deplete it of its minerals.
Fortunately, we can make up for what’s lost. “Some minerals that are crucial to add to water are calcium for bone health and magnesium, which allows other minerals to work and calm the nervous system. It can help make moods better and improve sleep, and it’s great for skin and hair,” said Shiva. “Zinc supports the immune system and wound healing and is very good for the libido,” she added. Yes, you read that correctly: minerals promote tons of bodily functions, including sexual appetite.
Shiva also told us that a lack of minerals in the body can lead to serious illness. “Many people are having thyroid issues because of the lack of iodine,” she shared. “I add a few drops to help maintain good thyroid function. Fulvic acid is another I add to my water, since it boosts collagen and supports the microbiome of the stomach.”
Here are some other trace minerals Shiva suggests adding to your water:
• Iron: important for healthy blood
• Copper: aids in red blood cell production and maintains nerve cells and the immune system
• Selenium: a powerful antioxidant that prevents cell damage caused by free radicals
• Chromium: improves insulin sensitivity and enhances protein, carbohydrate, and lipid metabolism
Now that you know a bit more about minerals, you might be wondering how often you should be adding them to your water. According to Shiva, a little goes a long way. “I usually will use one type of mineral every few days and then give it a break for a day or two.” Sounds simple enough. As always, it’s best to check in with your doctor and get blood work done before self-administering minerals.
Also consider incorporating minerals into your skincare routine. This exclusive collab between Poosh and Alkaglam uses patented technology to turn distilled water into a concentrated face mist with soothing, hydrating, and anti-inflammatory minerals. Just add distilled water to the refillable bottle, wait 20 seconds, and spritz.
Shop Shiva’s favorite mineral supplement brand below.
Shiva Rose was raised to bohemian parents in the countryside of Iran until the revolution occurred. Shiva went suddenly from a childhood nurtured on imagination and nature to life as a refugee. As one assimilating to a new life, Shiva sought solace in old films, fashion, and books which led her to work as an actress in TV, film, and theater. After having her first daughter in her early twenties she was diagnosed with an autoimmune condition. This diagnosis, and yearning for a healthy planet for her daughter, propelled her on a path as a naturalist and activist. The Local Rose was born out of a desire to celebrate a holistic, healthy, authentic lifestyle without sacrificing taste and glamour. Her book Whole Beauty is a complete guide to revitalizing your life. Follow Shiva @localrose on Instagram.
The content provided in this article is provided for information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice and consultation, including professional medical advice and consultation; it is provided with the understanding that Poosh, LLC (“Poosh”) is not engaged in the provision or rendering of medical advice or services. The opinions and content included in the article are the views of the interviewee only, and Poosh does not endorse or recommend any such content or information, or any product or service mentioned in the article. You understand and agree that Poosh shall not be liable for any claim, loss, or damage arising out of the use of, or reliance upon any content or information in the article.
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