Distilled water is the purest form of water, produced by boiling and re-condensing the steam, a process that removes contaminants, impurities, and nearly all dissolved minerals. This purity, however, is a double-edged sword. While it’s ideal for certain industrial and medical applications, such as in CPAP machines, irons, or for sterilizing equipment, it is not optimized for daily human consumption. For healthy individuals with a balanced diet, occasional consumption is generally fine, but relying on it as a primary source of hydration for extended periods can lead to serious health complications.
The Problem with Demineralized Water
One of the main health concerns with drinking too much distilled water is its lack of essential minerals. Natural water sources contain beneficial minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are crucial for numerous bodily functions. When these are removed, distilled water becomes "aggressive" and seeks to absorb minerals from its surroundings—including from your body's tissues.
Mineral Leaching and Deficiency
The most significant consequence of long-term distilled water consumption is the risk of mineral deficiency. Your body's mineral balance is delicate and relies on various sources, including water, for proper maintenance. The leaching effect can draw minerals from your bones and teeth, potentially contributing to conditions like osteoporosis and tooth decay. A healthy diet can compensate, but studies have indicated that many modern diets are already inadequate in these areas, making mineral-rich water an important dietary supplement. The World Health Organization has outlined these risks in reports discussing low-mineral water intake.
Electrolyte Imbalance and Overhydration
Electrolytes are minerals in your blood and body fluids that carry an electric charge and are essential for proper muscle and nerve function. Since distilled water contains no electrolytes, drinking large amounts of it can disrupt your body's electrolyte balance. When you sweat, you lose electrolytes like sodium and potassium. Distilled water cannot replenish these, and in extreme cases, drinking large quantities can lead to overhydration (water intoxication), a condition where sodium levels in the blood become dangerously low, leading to confusion, seizures, and potentially death. Case studies have documented fatal instances of hyponatremia linked to excessive distilled water intake.
Negative Effects of Excessive Distilled Water Consumption
- Fatigue and Weakness: Magnesium deficiency is a common side effect and can lead to persistent fatigue and muscle weakness.
- Headaches and Dizziness: Low levels of calcium and magnesium can trigger headaches, while electrolyte imbalance can cause dizziness.
- Muscle Cramps and Twitches: Magnesium deficiency is linked to involuntary muscle twitches, tremors, and cramps.
- Cardiovascular Issues: Some research has associated the consumption of soft, low-mineral water with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Impaired Taste: Many people find distilled water bland or "flat," which can discourage proper hydration and lead to reduced overall water consumption.
Distilled Water vs. Other Water Types
| Feature | Distilled Water | Tap Water | Purified Water | Spring Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mineral Content | Essentially none; all minerals removed. | Varies by location; contains beneficial minerals. | Low, but some systems (like reverse osmosis) can retain or add back minerals. | Naturally rich in minerals filtered through the earth. |
| Impurities | Free of most impurities, pathogens, and contaminants. | Can contain trace contaminants, though regulated by EPA. | Free of chemicals, toxins, and bacteria. | Generally clean, but purity varies and can be susceptible to contamination. |
| Taste | Flat and bland due to lack of minerals. | Taste varies greatly based on mineral content and treatment. | Often more palatable than distilled, especially with remineralization. | Tends to have a clean, crisp taste due to minerals. |
| Best For | Specific medical, industrial, or laboratory uses. | Everyday drinking for most healthy individuals in regulated areas. | Excellent for daily consumption; cleaner than most tap water. | Premium daily hydration with natural minerals. |
A Balanced Approach to Hydration
For general hydration, most healthy adults are better off consuming mineralized water, such as tap, filtered, or spring water, as part of a balanced diet. If you are drinking distilled water, it is crucial to ensure your diet is rich in minerals and electrolytes to compensate for the deficiencies. Athletes or individuals experiencing dehydration from severe vomiting or diarrhea should choose electrolyte-rich beverages over distilled water to replenish lost minerals effectively.
In conclusion, while distilled water is safe for occasional use and specialized applications, its long-term, exclusive consumption is not recommended for general health. The lack of vital minerals and electrolytes presents a real and serious risk of deficiency and imbalance, which can make you sick. Prioritizing mineral-rich water and a balanced diet is the safer, healthier choice for sustained hydration. For more detailed information on the health effects of demineralized water, consult the World Health Organization's reports on the topic.
Conclusion
Drinking too much distilled water can indeed make you sick due to its lack of essential minerals and electrolytes. While useful for specific purposes, it is not an ideal long-term drinking source for most people. A well-balanced diet can mitigate some risks, but the easiest and safest solution for daily hydration is to opt for water that retains beneficial mineral content, such as regular tap water, quality filtered water, or spring water. By making informed choices about your water source, you can avoid the risks associated with excessive consumption of demineralized water and maintain your overall health and well-being.
