Fancy plant waters deliver mostly promises

Fancy bottled plant drinks are big on promises, but some say those promises are mostly empty.

These days there are loads of new plant drinks taking the place of sodas. Among the types: Bamboo, artichoke, barley, maple, olive and watermelon.

The question is whether these drinks actually carry over the nutritional benefits of the plants from which they claim to be derived.

According to the University of California, Berkeley Wellness Letter, the health claims are mostly hot (or cold!) water.

Careful reading of plant water advertising shows that most of the claims are statements about the fruits and vegetables, not about the water. There are few, if any, studies showing that healthy benefits of the plants transfer to the water.

Artichoke water is advertised based on the properties of artichokes: source of vitamin C, iron, potassium and fiber. But there is no evidence that these benefits are found in the water, though it is sugar-free and zero calorie, according to UC Berkeley.

Another company claims that bamboo water is kinder to the environment because bamboo is a sustainable crop. “Disingenuous,” says the Berkeley Wellness Letter. “No bottled water is eco-friendly because of the packaging, processing and transportation involved.”

The conclusion:
Drink the plant waters if you like them, but do not be misled. There is no evidence that plant waters can make your skin look better, detox your body or make your hair silkier, says the Wellness Letter. If you want the benefits of plants, eat the plants.