If you are planning a trip to Thailand, it is essential to pay attention to a detail regarding bottled water. A seemingly insignificant detail but which actually has a direct impact on your health.
The advice comes from a content creator on Instagram (@besh_explorer) who published a particularly useful video for those preparing to visit the Asian country. The message is simple: pay attention to the label of the water you purchase! This advice, also valid in other parts of the world, can make a big difference.
The “Drinking Water” issue in Thailand
In Thailand, bottled water is generally labeled as “drinking water”, but this does not mean that it is the same as the mineral water we are used to drinking in Italy. In fact it is very common to find yourself struggling with demineralized waterwhich is the most common one in small local shops. This variant is safe to drink and drink, but during the purification process, many essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium and potassium are removed, which are crucial for effective hydration.
This means that, although apparently thirst-quenching, this water does not contribute to maintaining the right electrolyte balance in the body.
The main difference between “drinking water” and “mineral water” lies in the mineral content. While mineral water is rich in natural mineral salts that support the functioning of the nervous and muscular systems, demineralized water does not contain these nutrients, which can also cause a persistent feeling of thirst.
Exclusively drinking demineralized water for long periods, especially in a hot and humid environment like Thailand, can cause a risk of electrolyte imbalance and dehydration.
The water issue, therefore, should not be underestimated at all, especially not in a country like Thailand, famous for its tropical, hot and humid climate, which tends to accelerate the dehydration process.
View this post on Instagram
What to do to avoid problems
As already mentioned, it is good to pay attention to the label: if you find “mineral natural water” written on it, you can buy it easily but if the water is only “drinking water”, there is still a good solution.
The suggestion is to supplement the water with electrolytes. In Thai shops and pharmacies you can find sachets of powdered electrolytes, easy to add to water to replenish minerals lost due to heat and sweating. Simply dissolve the powder in the bottle and shake well.
