• In most situations, plain water is the best thirst quencher. Cool water—about 60°—is best. Not only is it
more palatable at this temperature, but it leaves the stomach more rapidly, and is available to the body sooner.
Athletes who train intensely and continuously for longer than one hour may benefit from drinking a
sports beverage with 4-8% carbohydrate and some electrolytes.
Drink to Your Health
S T U D E N T N U T R I T I O N A W A R E N E S S C A M P A I G N
(Continued)
• The main difference between hard and soft water is their mineral content.
Hard water contains higher concentrations of calcium and magnesium.
Soft water contains more sodium. While many people prefer
soft water, some studies indicate that its consumption on a daily basis
may increase risks for some individuals with high blood pressure or
heart disease. And, soft water more easily dissolves certain metals, like
cadmium and lead from pipes, which can be harmful.
• Purification is the process of filtering water through carbon filters or
boiling it to remove up to 90% of the impurities, such as gases and bacteria.
Hardness and mineral content of water are not affected by water
purification. The white residue that is left behind in boiled water is
usually from calcium and magnesium deposits.