The Science of Distilled Water: Pure but Not Balanced
Distilled water is created through a process of boiling water into steam and then condensing the steam back into a purified liquid. This process is highly effective at removing contaminants, chemicals, bacteria, and viruses. It's the go-to for many industrial, medical, and appliance-related applications where mineral buildup is undesirable. However, the very purity that makes it so valuable for these tasks is its primary drawback for human consumption. In addition to undesirable impurities, the distillation process also strips the water of essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are crucial for the body's proper function.
The Risks of Daily Distilled Water Consumption
For a person with a healthy and balanced diet, occasional consumption of distilled water is unlikely to cause any harm. However, relying on it as a primary source of hydration every day, particularly without a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, can lead to several nutritional and physiological issues.
Mineral and Electrolyte Depletion
One of the most significant concerns with daily distilled water intake is the lack of electrolytes and minerals. The body relies on a delicate balance of these nutrients for many vital processes. A 2004 World Health Organization (WHO) report noted potential adverse effects of drinking demineralized water, including electrolyte imbalance due to increased urination. These imbalances can manifest as fatigue, muscle cramps, headaches, and weakness. While water is not the main source of these nutrients for most people, it does contribute to the daily intake, and its absence can become a problem over time.
The “Aggressive” Water Phenomenon
Some experts describe demineralized water as “aggressive” because of its low Total Dissolved Solids (TDS). In a biological context, this means that to maintain osmotic balance, the body might start leaching minerals from its own stores, like teeth and bones, to process the mineral-depleted water. While the effect is minor for most, it is a concern for long-term, exclusive consumption. Over time, this could potentially contribute to weakened bones or dental issues.
Flat Taste and Reduced Hydration
The minerals naturally present in tap or spring water contribute to its flavor. Since distilled water lacks these, many people find it has a bland or flat taste. This might seem like a minor issue, but an unappealing taste could lead to drinking less water overall, potentially hindering proper hydration. Furthermore, electrolytes are necessary for the body's fluid absorption and distribution. Water without them may not be as effective for rehydration, especially after heavy sweating.
Potential for Increased Toxin Leaching
Because distilled water is an active solvent, it has the ability to leach impurities from the container it is stored in. Storing distilled water in plastic containers could increase the risk of exposure to chemicals over time compared to storing mineral-rich water, which is less 'hungry' for other substances.
Distilled vs. Other Water Types: A Comparison
| Feature | Distilled Water | Tap Water | Purified Water (RO) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purification Method | Boiling and re-condensing steam | Filtration and chemical treatment by municipality | Pushed through a semipermeable membrane |
| Mineral Content | Virtually zero | Varies by location; contains beneficial minerals | Very low, similar to distilled |
| Contaminant Removal | Highly effective; removes pathogens, chemicals, heavy metals | Treated to meet safety standards; may contain trace contaminants | Highly effective; removes most contaminants |
| Electrolyte Content | None | Contains electrolytes like sodium, magnesium | Often lacks electrolytes unless re-mineralized |
| Taste | Flat and bland due to lack of minerals | Varies depending on source and treatment | Often considered cleaner than tap; can be bland |
| Cost | High for daily consumption, especially home distillation | Low and convenient | Varies depending on system; ongoing filter costs |
| Best For | Medical equipment (CPAP), appliances, lab work | Everyday drinking for most healthy adults | Everyday drinking, often with remineralization options |
Conclusion
While distilled water is the cleanest form of water, its long-term, exclusive daily consumption is not recommended for most healthy individuals. The primary concern is the complete absence of essential minerals and electrolytes, which the body needs to function optimally. For healthy adults with a balanced diet, minerals gained from food can compensate for what is missing in distilled water. However, people with specific health conditions, athletes, or those with poor dietary habits should be cautious. In areas with contaminated tap water, or for specific medical and household needs, distilled water serves an important purpose. The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that mineral intake from water can contribute to overall health, emphasizing that the absence of these nutrients is a valid concern for long-term, exclusive consumption. When in doubt, a professional nutritionist or doctor can provide guidance tailored to your specific health needs.
World Health Organization Report on Nutrient Minerals in Drinking Water
Sourcing Minerals and Maintaining Balance
If you choose to drink distilled water regularly, it's crucial to be mindful of your mineral and electrolyte intake from other sources. Focus on a diet rich in whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, to replenish the nutrients that are absent in the water. Electrolyte powders or mineral drops can also be added to distilled water to compensate, though a natural, nutrient-dense diet is always the best approach. Alternatively, consider mineral-rich alternatives like high-quality spring water or filtered water with added minerals for daily hydration.
