What Exactly is Distilled Water?
Distilled water is a type of purified water created through the process of distillation, which involves boiling water to create steam. The steam then rises, leaving behind impurities such as minerals, salts, and other dissolved contaminants, before being condensed back into a liquid state in a separate container. This process makes distilled water one of the purest forms of water available.
The Purifying Process
- Boiling: The water is heated to its boiling point, turning it into vapor.
- Evaporation: The water vapor separates from the non-volatile contaminants, which remain in the original boiling container.
- Condensation: The steam travels into a separate, cooled chamber, where it reverts to its liquid state.
- Collection: The newly condensed, purified water is collected, now free from most impurities, minerals, and other substances.
Is Distilled Water Safe for Occasional Consumption?
For short-term or occasional use, drinking distilled water is generally considered safe for most healthy individuals. For example, in regions with contaminated tap water, drinking distilled water can be a safer alternative due to its freedom from harmful bacteria, viruses, and chemicals. It is also often used for specific medical purposes, such as sterilizing equipment or for patients who need absolute purity.
Potential Risks of Long-Term Reliance
While the purity of distilled water can be a benefit, relying solely on it for long-term hydration can present several potential health risks due to the removal of essential minerals.
Mineral Deficiency
Distillation removes beneficial minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium that are vital for bodily functions. Over time, consuming only distilled water can lead to deficiencies, especially if your diet does not adequately compensate. The body relies on electrolytes (which are minerals) in water to maintain balance. A deficiency can lead to:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Muscle cramps
- Electrolyte imbalances
Potential for Leaching Minerals
Because distilled water is mineral-free, it is often described as 'aggressive' as it readily absorbs other substances to maintain balance. This means it can leach minerals from your teeth, bones, and even the materials of its storage container, potentially exposing you to unwanted compounds.
Flat Taste and Reduced Thirst-Quenching
Many people find the taste of distilled water to be flat and unappealing because the minerals that give water its taste are absent. This can lead to a decrease in overall water consumption, which is counterproductive for proper hydration.
Comparing Distilled Water to Other Types
| Feature | Distilled Water | Tap Water | Purified Water (e.g., RO) | Spring Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mineral Content | Essentially none, as they are removed during the distillation process. | Varies greatly by location but contains beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium. | Can have some minerals depending on the filtration process, but often has them removed and sometimes re-added. | Rich in naturally occurring minerals collected from underground sources. |
| Taste | Flat or bland due to the lack of minerals and gases. | Flavor can vary depending on mineral content and disinfection methods (e.g., chlorine). | Generally considered palatable, but taste depends on the remaining minerals and source. | Often preferred for its fresh, clean taste due to its natural mineral content. |
| Purity | Considered one of the purest forms of water, free of nearly all contaminants. | Safety is regulated by government agencies, but can contain trace contaminants. | Highly pure, with most contaminants removed, including bacteria and viruses. | Naturally pure, but can be susceptible to environmental contaminants if not properly sourced and tested. |
| Best For | Short-term use, medical equipment, and appliances (e.g., irons, humidifiers). | Everyday drinking, cooking, and most household uses in areas with safe tap water. | Daily drinking and cooking when concerned about tap water contaminants. | Daily drinking for taste and potential mineral benefits. |
Conclusion: So, Is it Okay to Drink Distilled Water?
In short, it is okay to drink distilled water, but it is not recommended as your primary long-term source of hydration due to its lack of essential minerals. While it offers exceptional purity, which is beneficial for specific applications and temporary situations, a balanced diet is crucial to offset the mineral loss. For long-term health and hydration, relying on tap water (if safe), spring water, or purified water with minerals re-added is a better choice. Ultimately, a varied diet is key to ensuring you get the full spectrum of nutrients your body needs, regardless of your water source.
Consult a Professional
It's always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional before significantly changing your water consumption habits. They can provide guidance based on your personal health needs, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or dietary restrictions that could impact your mineral intake. For example, the World Health Organization (WHO) has noted that certain populations with borderline mineral intake could be at risk when relying on demineralized water.
Use for Appliances and Medical Equipment
- Steam Irons and Humidifiers: Distilled water prevents mineral buildup, extending the life of these appliances.
- Car Batteries and Cooling Systems: The absence of minerals prevents corrosion and damage to internal parts.
- CPAP Machines: Many CPAP users are advised to use distilled water to prevent mineral buildup and maintain equipment longevity.
- Laboratories: Its high purity makes it ideal for experiments and procedures that require a contaminant-free medium.
Remember, while distilled water is highly pure, it's the long-term mineral balance that makes it a less-than-ideal choice for daily, consistent drinking for most people.
