What is distilled water?
Distillation is a purification process that involves boiling water and then condensing the steam back into a liquid state. This method effectively removes a vast majority of impurities, contaminants, and dissolved minerals, resulting in a product that is extremely pure and devoid of a distinct taste. Crystal Springs and other manufacturers use this standard process to produce their distilled water. The resulting water is nearly 100% pure H₂O, which is why it is often recommended for sensitive applications where mineral buildup is undesirable.
The distillation process explained
- Boiling: The water is heated to its boiling point, turning it into steam. This leaves behind non-volatile compounds and impurities like minerals and heavy metals.
- Condensation: The steam is collected and cooled in a separate chamber, causing it to condense back into liquid water.
- Collection: The re-liquefied water, which is now distilled, is collected in a clean container.
Is Crystal Springs distilled water safe to drink?
Yes, you can drink Crystal Springs distilled water, as it is a safe product free from contaminants, pesticides, and microorganisms. Since distillation is a form of purification, this water is exceptionally clean. The company, like all bottled water producers, is regulated by the FDA, ensuring it meets safety standards for consumption. However, the safety of consuming it is different from whether it's the ideal choice for regular hydration.
The benefits of drinking distilled water
For short-term or specific purposes, the purity of distilled water offers several advantages:
- High Purity: The distillation process removes virtually all contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, and heavy metals, which makes it an excellent choice if your local tap water quality is a concern.
- Neutral Taste: For those who are sensitive to the taste of minerals or additives like chlorine, the flat, neutral taste of distilled water can be preferable.
- Safe for Specific Uses: Its purity is highly beneficial for use in CPAP machines, steam irons, and humidifiers, as it prevents mineral scale buildup that can damage appliances over time.
The risks and drawbacks of exclusive distilled water consumption
While safe, regularly drinking only distilled water has notable disadvantages, mainly due to the complete lack of minerals.
- Mineral and Electrolyte Deficiency: Distillation strips out beneficial minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium that are essential for proper bodily function. While most minerals are obtained from food, prolonged, exclusive consumption could potentially lead to deficiencies and electrolyte imbalances.
- Decreased Thirst-Quenching: The bland taste may lead some people to drink less water than they should, potentially impacting their hydration levels.
- Cooking Impact: Using distilled water for cooking can cause some minerals to be leached from your food into the water, potentially reducing the nutritional value of your meal.
Comparing water types: Distilled vs. Spring vs. Purified
To make an informed choice, it's helpful to understand the difference between common bottled water types.
| Feature | Distilled Water | Spring Water | Purified Water |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Steam from boiling water | Natural springs | Any source (tap, well) |
| Purification | Boiling, condensation | Natural filtration through rock | Various methods (distillation, reverse osmosis) |
| Mineral Content | Virtually none | Contains natural minerals | Contaminants removed; minerals may be added back |
| Taste | Flat, bland | Crisp, mineral taste | Can vary; often pleasant |
| Best For | Appliances, short-term drinking, specific medical needs | Everyday drinking, hydration | Everyday drinking, specific health concerns |
Who should be cautious with distilled water?
While generally safe, certain individuals should be mindful of their consumption, especially if it's their primary source of hydration.
- Performance Athletes: Those who sweat heavily lose electrolytes that are not replaced by distilled water. Sports drinks or mineral-rich water are better options for electrolyte balance.
- Infants: While distilled water can be used for formula, it must be sterilized first, as it is not naturally sterile. Consult a pediatrician for guidance.
- Individuals with Certain Health Conditions: People with kidney disease or electrolyte imbalances should consult a healthcare provider before making distilled water a primary hydration source.
Conclusion
Can you drink Crystal Springs distilled water? Absolutely. It is a very pure and safe option, particularly for short-term consumption or in areas with poor tap water quality. However, relying on it as your sole source of hydration for the long term is not recommended due to its lack of essential minerals like calcium and magnesium. For most people, a balanced diet is sufficient to compensate for this mineral deficit, but it's important to be aware of the trade-offs. The World Health Organization has noted concerns about long-term demineralized water consumption, though more research is needed. For everyday hydration, mineral-containing water such as spring or purified water with added minerals is often the superior choice for optimal health. Before making a major change to your water intake, especially for specific health needs, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional. You can find more information on different water types and their health effects from reliable sources like the FDA or EPA.
For more detailed information on drinking water safety standards and different water types, consult the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's website.
