Eat Well

Make healthier habits and better choices a way of life

Safe Drinking Water


Water is the best and healthiest beverage to drink, day and night — especially if it's hot out. Eight ounces of water eight times a day cools your body after exercise, keeps everything working the way it should and even helps you eat less and lose weight (if those are goals for you).

But buying bottled water every time you feel thirsty is expensive and bad for the environment — so if you're not going to be somewhere with a water fountain or water cooler, it makes sense to get a reusable water bottle you'll like bringing along!

Here's what you need to know:

  • Older plastic bottles aren't a good idea since they may be made from chemicals that are bad for your health — so lose the ones that have been kicking around the house a few years.
  • Make sure new plastic water bottles are labeled "BPA-free" for the same reason. Most of the ones you buy at reputable stores are anyway — but it can't hurt to check.
  • If you're looking for something unique, fun and trendy, some companies are making collapsible plastic water bottles — some fold up like an accordion, while others are like plastic bags that flatten out when nothing is in them.
  • Aluminum and stainless steel are good, green choices (no matter what color you pick!). They keep water cold and their plastic linings are made to be safe.

One important rule for any reusable water bottle:

Wash it out regularly (and use dishwasher soap!) and let it dry with the cap off so bacteria doesn't have a chance to grow inside.​