By Lynn Grieger, R.D., C.D.E.

We all know we're supposed to drink more water, but which type of water is the best? Every weight loss plan advocates drinking more water, but does water really wash fat out of our bodies? According to Beverage Digest, bottled water is the fastest growing beverage in the U.S., with sales doubling from 1998 to 2000.

• Learn the pros and cons of each type of water:
  Tap
  Bottled
  Mineralized
  Sparkling
  Flavored
  
  
• Find out our vote for the best water
  
  
• Get the answers to 3 frequently asked water questions
  

Tap water

It's the cheapest and most readily available water. Some municipal tap water is fluoridated to help protect teeth from cavities, which is viewed as a health benefit by many and a health hazard by others. In the United States, tap water is closely monitored to meet federal safety standards, and is an inexpensive source of water. Most municipal tap water is relatively low in sodium, but if you use a home water softener the sodium content can go up significantly.

Bottled water

You simply can't beat the convenience of carrying a bottle of water with you wherever you go. But believe it or not, bottled water is really no different than the stuff that flows out of your faucet. In fact, many major bottled water manufacturers start with municipal tap water! Bottled water isn't as highly regulated as municipal tap water systems, and some studies have shown that bottled water can contain more harmful bacteria than tap water. If you're looking for water that comes from a natural spring, choose bottled water labeled "spring water." In another funky labeling twist, "purified" water is simply water with all the minerals removed. This type of water isn't necessarily better for us, it just tastes a bit different -- and costs about three times more.

Mineralized water

Mineral water must contain no less than 250 parts per million of total dissolved minerals that are naturally present, not artificially added. There is little health benefit to drinking mineral water, but some people prefer the taste. If you have a well, chances are you drink mineral water right from your tap!