The Importance of Remineralizing RO Water
Reverse osmosis (RO) is an incredibly effective water purification process that removes up to 99.9% of dissolved solids, including heavy metals, contaminants, and chemicals. This provides exceptionally clean drinking water. However, the downside is that RO systems are indiscriminate, removing beneficial minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium along with the bad stuff.
What Minerals are Removed?
Essential minerals stripped from water by the RO process include:
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Potassium
- Sodium
- Zinc
- Trace elements like iodine and selenium
The absence of these minerals is what gives RO water its characteristically flat or bland taste. Beyond taste, these minerals are vital for various bodily functions, including bone health, muscle and nerve function, and maintaining electrolyte balance. While you get most of your minerals from food, remineralizing water can contribute to your daily intake and improve hydration.
Methods for Adding Minerals to RO Water
There are several effective ways to reintroduce minerals into your drinking water after it has passed through an RO system. The best method depends on your budget, convenience needs, and personal preferences.
Method 1: Inline Remineralization Filters
This is one of the most convenient and automated methods for remineralization. An inline filter, also known as an alkaline filter, is added as a final stage to your existing RO system.
How it works: As purified RO water passes through the filter cartridge, it flows over a blend of natural minerals, such as calcite, magnesium oxide, or other proprietary blends. The water dissolves a small, controlled amount of these minerals, restoring them to healthy levels and balancing the pH.
Pros:
- Fully automated and low-effort after initial installation.
- Provides consistent mineral levels with every glass.
- Improves pH, often making water slightly alkaline.
- Often uses a high-quality, long-lasting mineral blend.
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost and filter replacement expenses.
- Requires installation and space under the sink.
Method 2: Mineral Drops and Supplements
For a simpler, more portable option, you can use concentrated liquid mineral drops. These are added manually to each glass or bottle of RO water.
How it works: You add a few drops of a liquid supplement, which contains a broad spectrum of ionic trace minerals, directly to your glass of water. A popular source is the Great Salt Lake, known for its high mineral content.
Pros:
- Highly portable for use on the go or when traveling.
- Allows for customizable dosage based on preference.
- Fast and easy, requiring no complex installation.
Cons:
- Can become expensive for larger families or high-volume use.
- Requires manual addition for every glass.
- Taste can vary depending on the dosage and brand.
Method 3: DIY with Mineral Salts
Using a pinch of mineral-rich salt, such as unprocessed Himalayan pink salt or Celtic sea salt, is a low-cost, effective method for adding trace minerals back into RO water.
How it works: A small amount of salt is dissolved in a gallon or pitcher of RO water. For example, a quarter teaspoon of Himalayan salt to one gallon of water is a commonly cited ratio.
Pros:
- Extremely low cost.
- Access to a broad spectrum of naturally occurring trace minerals.
Cons:
- Requires careful measurement to avoid a salty taste.
- Can lead to a limited range of minerals compared to engineered blends.
- Higher sodium intake if not moderated.
Method 4: Alkaline Water Pitchers
While primarily known for raising pH, alkaline water pitchers also contribute some minerals. They use a filter cartridge containing mineral beads or ceramic balls to infuse the water.
How it works: You fill the pitcher with RO water, and as it passes through the filter, it picks up minerals and its pH is increased.
Pros:
- Relatively low cost compared to an inline system.
- Easily stored in the refrigerator for chilled, mineralized water.
Cons:
- Less effective at consistent, high-level remineralization than inline systems.
- Can be inconvenient for high-volume users.
- Filters have a shorter lifespan than RO system cartridges.
Comparison of Remineralization Methods
| Feature | In-line Filter | Mineral Drops | Mineral Salts (Himalayan) | Alkaline Pitcher | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Convenience | High (automated) | High (per serving) | Medium (manual, batch) | Medium (refill/wait) | |
| Mineral Variety | High (proprietary blend) | High (concentrated ionic) | Broad (trace elements) | Moderate (primarily Ca/Mg) | |
| Effort | Low (filter replacement) | Low (add drops) | Moderate (measure/mix) | Moderate (refill pitcher) | |
| Cost | Moderate to High | High (per user) | Very Low | Low | |
| Best For | Consistent, whole-household use | Travel or single-person use | Budget-conscious DIYers | Convenient batch processing | n |
Best Practices for Remineralizing Your Drinking Water
- Read the labels: No matter which method you choose, pay attention to the ingredients. Look for well-sourced minerals and avoid products with unnecessary additives.
- Monitor your mineral intake: While beneficial, added minerals are a supplement to a healthy diet. Be mindful of your overall mineral consumption, especially sodium, if using mineral salts.
- Experiment with taste: The ideal level of mineralization is a matter of personal preference. Experiment with dosages (if using drops or salts) to find what tastes best to you.
- For maximum impact, check the source: Some manufacturers, like those using mineral blends derived from the Great Salt Lake, emphasize the bioavailability and natural source of their minerals. Prioritizing these brands ensures you get the most from your remineralization effort.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Remineralization Method
Adding minerals back to your reverse osmosis water is a valuable step towards improving both the taste and potential health benefits of your hydration. Whether you opt for the automated convenience of an inline filter, the personalized control of mineral drops, the cost-effectiveness of mineral salts, or the simplicity of an alkaline pitcher, the best choice depends on your lifestyle and priorities. While RO systems excel at providing pure, clean water, combining them with a remineralization method ensures you're not missing out on the essential minerals that contribute to a more complete hydration experience. The key is to select a method that you can consistently maintain to reap the full benefits of mineral-rich water.
For more detailed information on the health implications of demineralized water, you can refer to relevant studies on the National Institutes of Health website.
