Understanding the Purification Process
Purified water is water that has been treated to remove contaminants and impurities, but the process often strips away beneficial minerals as well. The most common methods used for purification include reverse osmosis, distillation, and deionization. While these methods are highly effective at creating clean, safe water by removing harmful substances like bacteria, heavy metals, and chemicals, they also leave the water with a very low concentration of total dissolved solids (TDS), including healthy minerals. It is this complete lack of mineral content that forms the basis for the concerns regarding purified water, especially in a long-term context.
The Core Issue: Mineral Depletion
The central argument against relying solely on purified water for hydration is the removal of vital minerals. Our bodies need a variety of minerals for numerous physiological functions, and water can serve as a supplementary source. When purification methods like reverse osmosis and distillation are used, these minerals are discarded along with the unwanted contaminants.
Key minerals often removed include:
- Calcium: Important for bone strength, nerve function, and blood clotting.
- Magnesium: Critical for over 300 enzymatic reactions, muscle contraction, and maintaining normal heart rhythm.
- Potassium and Sodium: Vital for maintaining proper electrolyte balance and fluid regulation.
While we primarily get these nutrients from our diet, the mineral content in drinking water can significantly supplement our overall intake. For individuals whose diets are already lacking, drinking demineralized water can exacerbate existing deficiencies. Some critics suggest that relying on food alone to make up for the mineral loss from water is not always sufficient, especially given that many modern diets are already deficient.
Health Consequences of Demineralized Water
Scientific studies, including reports commissioned by the WHO, have highlighted potential health risks associated with the long-term consumption of demineralized water. These risks are primarily linked to the disruption of the body's natural mineral and fluid balance.
- Electrolyte Imbalance: The body relies on a delicate balance of electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium) for proper nerve and muscle function. With consistent intake of low-mineral water, the body's electrolyte levels can become diluted, which can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, muscle cramps, and headaches. For athletes who lose electrolytes through sweat, this risk is especially pronounced.
- Cardiovascular Issues: Epidemiological studies have found correlations between drinking low-mineral, or "soft," water and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Both low calcium and low magnesium levels have been implicated in this risk.
- Bone Health Impact: Research published in The Journal of Nutrition observed lower bone mineral content and slower growth in children who drank low-mineral water over a four-year period. The lack of water-based calcium intake was cited as a contributing factor.
- Altered pH Levels: Purified water, due to its lack of buffering minerals, can become slightly acidic by absorbing carbon dioxide from the air. Long-term consumption of acidic water may contribute to tooth enamel erosion and, in severe cases, affect the body's pH balance, causing it to leach minerals from bones to compensate.
- Increased Toxin Absorption: Demineralized water is considered "aggressive" because it actively seeks to absorb substances it comes into contact with. This means it can potentially leach metals, such as lead, from older pipes and plumbing, re-contaminating the water before it is consumed.
Comparison of Water Types
To better understand the implications, here is a comparison of different water types and purification methods:
| Purification Method | Removes Minerals? | Potential Health Issue (if not remineralized) | Best For... |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reverse Osmosis (RO) | Yes (very high percentage) | Electrolyte imbalance, mineral deficiency | Areas with contaminated municipal water |
| Distillation | Yes (all minerals) | Extreme mineral deficiency, acidic taste | Specific industrial, medical, or short-term uses |
| Standard Filtration | No (mostly) | Less effective at removing fine particles or some dissolved solids | Improving taste and removing chlorine/sediment |
| Spring Water | No (natural mineral content) | Potential for contaminants if not treated properly | Mineral intake from a natural source |
Solutions and Alternatives
Fortunately, for those concerned about what does he state is wrong with purified water, there are several ways to address the potential health risks without sacrificing water safety. The key is to reintroduce the beneficial minerals that are lost during the purification process.
- Remineralization Filters: Many reverse osmosis systems offer an optional final stage that adds a balanced amount of essential minerals back into the water. These cartridges can restore minerals like calcium and magnesium, improving both the water's health profile and its taste.
- Supplementing Your Diet: While not a perfect solution, ensuring a diet rich in mineral-dense foods such as leafy greens, nuts, and seeds can help compensate for the low mineral content of your drinking water.
- Choosing Other Water Sources: Depending on local water quality, opting for bottled natural spring water or properly filtered tap water might be a better long-term choice. If your municipal water is generally safe but tastes unpleasant, a simple carbon filter can often improve taste without stripping minerals.
For additional information on the health effects of demineralized water, consult authoritative sources like the World Health Organization report.
Conclusion
While purified water is a valuable tool for ensuring water safety by removing harmful contaminants, it is not without its drawbacks. The primary concern is the removal of essential minerals, which, over time, can lead to negative health outcomes and a compromised fluid balance. Experts and health organizations advise against prolonged and exclusive consumption of demineralized water, especially for vulnerable populations like children and those with pre-existing health conditions. The best approach is an informed one: consider your water source, assess your nutritional intake, and, if needed, explore options for remineralization to ensure your hydration strategy supports overall health, rather than undermining it.
