The Truth About Water: Europe vs. America

We all know water is essential. But here’s a thought—not all water is created equal.

I was listening to the Culture Apothecary podcast recently, and guest Martin Riese, one of the world’s few certified water sommeliers, shared something eye-opening: the way we think about water in the United States is completely different from how it’s seen in Europe.

Mineral vs. Marketing

In Europe, water is part of culture. Most people drink straight from the tap or buy bottled mineral water. Each region’s water comes from natural springs, carrying a unique fingerprint of minerals like calcium, magnesium, potassium, and bicarbonates. That’s why waters from France taste different than those from Italy or Germany. Europeans even pair certain waters with foods—just like wine.

In the United States, the story shifts. Grocery store shelves are lined with waters promising to be “cleaner,” “healthier,” or “functional.” Think alkaline water, pH-balanced water, and brands adding electrolytes or flavors. The focus isn’t on natural mineral content but on marketing claims.

The pH Myth

Here’s where it gets interesting. Many American brands push the idea that a higher pH (making the water more alkaline) is somehow better for your health. You’ll see claims about balancing your body’s acidity, preventing disease, and even boosting energy.

But Martin Riese—and actual science—say otherwise. Your body has a brilliant built-in system to keep pH levels in balance. Your lungs and kidneys regulate it tightly, whether you sip alkaline water or not.

In other words: alkaline water is a myth. Studies don’t back up the promises. It’s not harmful, but it’s not magical either.

Why Minerals Matter

What does make a difference? Minerals.

• Magnesium helps with muscle function and relaxation.

• Calcium supports bones, teeth, and even your heart rhythm.

• Potassium keeps your cells balanced and your blood pressure steady.

• Bicarbonates help neutralize acids naturally in your stomach.

Natural spring and mineral waters carry these in varying amounts. When you filter water too aggressively—as many U.S. systems do—you strip those minerals out. What’s left is clean, yes, but “empty.”

Think of it like food: you could eat processed white bread, or you could eat a hearty slice of sourdough made with whole grains. Both fill you up, but one nourishes you in a deeper way.

A Tale of Two Glasses

Imagine this. You’re sitting at a café in Italy, and the waiter brings you a chilled glass of San Pellegrino. It tastes crisp, slightly salty, with a mineral bite that cuts through your pasta perfectly. Now picture grabbing a plastic bottle of “alkaline water” at an American gas station. It tastes… like nothing. Maybe the label has bold promises, but the liquid is just neutral water with most minerals stripped out.

Both hydrate you. But only one is offering your body real, naturally-occurring nutrients.

Why This Matters for Wellness

We’re bombarded with products promising shortcuts—whether it’s water, supplements, or skincare. But nature often has it figured out already. Instead of chasing the latest marketing buzzword, we can look for quality in its simplest form.

That’s why European water culture is fascinating: it respects water as food, something with flavor, terroir, and health value. In the U.S., water has been turned into a “functional” product—another aisle of wellness branding.

The shift isn’t about one being “better” than the other, but about awareness. Once you know the difference, you can make more informed choices.

How to Choose Better Water at Home

• Check the label. Some brands list mineral content (look for magnesium, calcium, potassium).

• Spring over “purified.” If possible, choose natural spring water instead of heavily filtered or distilled.

• Don’t stress the pH. Focus on minerals, not alkaline claims.

• Add your own. A pinch of high-quality sea salt can add trace minerals back to filtered water.

And if you’re lucky enough to travel in Europe, make water tasting part of the adventure. Order different local brands and notice the differences in taste and mouthfeel.

Final Sip

Hydration isn’t about fancy marketing—it’s about quality. Minerals matter. Your body doesn’t need pH miracles; it needs the basics. Next time you raise a glass, ask yourself: am I drinking nature’s water, or just clever branding?

Happy drinking 😁 

Larissa - Founder of RoamWell

P.S. One of my favorite newsletters to read is LiveLong. They share science-backed tips for living healthier, longer lives—without the noise or gimmicks. It blends perfectly with this week’s water post because it’s all about cutting through myths and focusing on what truly supports your well-being. Just like RoamWell, LiveLong keeps wellness clear, simple, and rooted in what works. Subscribe Below!!