Fortified water has added vitamins and minerals. It comes in many brands, flavours and colours, each with a different label or characteristic such as “endurance”, “focus” and “energy”.

Some things to consider:

• Health Canada has given manufacturers strict guidelines to follow when making these products so they are safe for consumers.
• Some fortified waters claim they contain “50% of many of the vitamins that you need everyday”. In saying this, it is important to consider the serving size of the beverage.
• Read the ingredient list on these drinks as many of them contain added sugar such as fructose or glucose.
• Remember that with sugar, you also get added calories.
• Fortified water costs more than non-fortified drinks.
• Foods are our best sources of vitamins and minerals.
• It’s best to use Eating Well with Canada’s Food Guide to know how much of each food group is recommended for optimal health.
• Flavour your water with a lemon wedge or cranberry juice or try sparkling water.
• There is a noticeable price difference between fortified and non-fortified beverages that might make it not worth buying.
• It is not necessary to consume beverages with added vitamins and minerals if you consume a well balanced diet that includes a variety of different foods.