The Purification Process: What It Removes and Why It Matters
Purified water is water that has been mechanically filtered or processed to remove impurities and contaminants. Unlike simple filtration that might only remove large particles, purification processes like reverse osmosis (RO), distillation, and deionization take purity to a much higher level. Tap water, while often treated to be safe, can still contain trace amounts of contaminants such as chlorine, lead, pesticides, and other chemicals that some people prefer to avoid. For individuals with compromised immune systems, purified water provides an extra layer of protection against waterborne illnesses.
Common Purification Methods
- Reverse Osmosis (RO): This process forces water through a semipermeable membrane that filters out a wide range of dissolved solids, chemicals, and contaminants. It is highly effective but can also remove beneficial minerals.
- Distillation: Water is boiled into steam, which is then condensed back into a liquid. This leaves almost all impurities and minerals behind, resulting in very pure, but often flat-tasting, water.
- Deionization (DI): This method uses ion exchange resins to remove mineral salts and other dissolved inorganic solids. It is commonly used in laboratory and medical settings where high purity is critical.
Health Benefits of Drinking Purified Water
From a health perspective, the primary benefit of purified water is the assurance of consuming a clean, contaminant-free product.
Supports Digestive Health
By removing harmful bacteria and parasites, purified water reduces the risk of gastrointestinal illnesses. This supports healthy digestion and detoxification by helping to flush waste products from the body. Cleaner water also aids in efficient nutrient absorption from food.
Enhances Skin and Hair Health
Chemicals like chlorine and heavy metals can contribute to skin and hair dryness and irritation. Using purified water for both drinking and washing can help maintain the skin's natural moisture balance, preventing issues like acne and promoting a healthier appearance. Proper hydration from clean water is also key to improving skin elasticity and radiance.
Boosts Overall Hydration and Function
Some people are discouraged from drinking enough water due to an unpleasant taste or odor from chemicals in tap water. Purified water's neutral taste often encourages increased consumption, which is critical for bodily functions like nutrient transport, waste removal, and regulating body temperature.
Potential Downsides and Considerations
While the benefits of contaminant removal are clear, purified water also has potential drawbacks that should be considered.
Loss of Essential Minerals
Purification methods like reverse osmosis and distillation strip the water of beneficial minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Over time, relying solely on demineralized water may lead to deficiencies if these minerals aren't acquired through diet or supplements. Some modern purifiers address this by adding minerals back into the water after purification.
Environmental and Financial Costs
Bottled purified water contributes significantly to plastic waste and is more expensive than tap water. Home purification systems, while more environmentally friendly than bottled water, require a higher initial investment and regular maintenance to replace filters. Improperly maintained filters can even become breeding grounds for bacteria, potentially making the water quality worse than tap water.
Purified vs. Tap Water: A Comparison
| Feature | Purified Water | Tap Water (Municipal) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Typically sourced from municipal or ground water, then treated further. | Sourced from lakes, rivers, and aquifers, then treated by a municipality. |
| Purity Level | High purity, with chemicals, heavy metals, and microbes removed. | Meets basic safety standards, but may contain trace contaminants like chlorine and lead. |
| Mineral Content | Often has beneficial minerals removed unless remineralized. | Contains naturally occurring minerals, which vary by location. |
| Taste | Generally has a clean, neutral taste. | Taste can vary greatly depending on location and treatment. |
| Cost | More expensive, especially bottled. Home systems require an initial investment. | Very inexpensive, though costs for filters and maintenance add up. |
| Environmental Impact | Bottled water creates plastic waste. Home systems use energy and have filter waste. | Lower environmental footprint for delivery, but infrastructure and chemical use have impacts. |
| Who Benefits Most? | Individuals with sensitive immune systems, those living in areas with poor water quality, or anyone who dislikes the taste of tap water. | Those prioritizing affordability and convenience in areas with reliable, high-quality public water systems. |
Conclusion
So, does purified water do anything for you? Yes, it does—primarily by providing a cleaner, safer, and often better-tasting alternative to tap water, especially in areas where municipal water quality is a concern. The removal of contaminants like heavy metals, chlorine, and pathogens reduces your risk of waterborne illness and overall toxin exposure. For those who prefer a neutral taste, it can encourage better hydration habits. However, the benefit comes with trade-offs. The stripping of essential minerals requires consideration of dietary sources or remineralized water, and the environmental and financial costs, particularly with bottled water, are significant. Ultimately, the value of purified water is highly dependent on your specific circumstances, including your health needs, local tap water quality, and priorities regarding cost and environmental impact. For most, a home purification system offers a balanced solution, providing clean water while being more sustainable than single-use plastic bottles.
