Is it OK to drink distilled water every day? - The Institute for Environmental Research and Education

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Is It OK to Drink Distilled Water Every Day? Understanding the Science and Safety

Drinking distilled water every day is generally considered safe, although long-term consumption may present some minor considerations related to mineral intake. This article explores the science behind distilled water, its potential benefits and risks, and helps you decide if it’s right for you.

You may also want to know: Is distilled water good for goldfish?·Can planaria live in bottled water?

What is Distilled Water?

Distilled water is water that has been boiled, evaporated, and then condensed back into liquid. This process effectively removes impurities, including:

Minerals like calcium and magnesium
Microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses
Chemical contaminants like lead and arsenic

The result is incredibly pure H2O, devoid of the substances typically found in tap water, well water, and even some bottled waters. This purity is what makes distilled water both appealing and, for some, concerning.

The Distillation Process Explained

The distillation process is relatively simple, yet effective:

Boiling: Water is heated to its boiling point, turning it into steam.
Evaporation: The steam rises, leaving behind impurities.
Condensation: The steam is cooled and condenses back into water.
Collection: The condensed water (distilled water) is collected in a separate container.

This process mimics the natural hydrological cycle, where water evaporates from lakes and oceans, leaving behind salts and other impurities.

Potential Benefits of Drinking Distilled Water

While Is it OK to drink distilled water every day?, it’s important to understand the potential advantages:

Removal of Contaminants: The primary benefit is the elimination of harmful contaminants that may be present in other water sources. This can be particularly important for individuals with compromised immune systems or those living in areas with poor water quality.
Ideal for Certain Appliances: Distilled water is recommended for use in appliances like steam irons, humidifiers, and CPAP machines. The absence of minerals prevents mineral buildup and extends the life of these devices.
Detoxification Support: Some believe that distilled water aids in detoxification by drawing minerals and toxins out of the body. However, scientific evidence supporting this claim is limited.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Despite its purity, drinking distilled water presents certain considerations:

Lack of Minerals: The most significant concern is the absence of essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These minerals are vital for various bodily functions, including bone health, nerve function, and muscle contraction.
Potential for Mineral Leaching: Theoretically, distilled water, being “hungry” for minerals, could leach them from the body. However, the extent of this leaching is debatable and likely minimal, especially with a balanced diet.
Taste: Some people find the taste of distilled water bland or flat due to the absence of minerals.

Addressing Mineral Concerns

If you choose to drink distilled water every day, it’s crucial to ensure you are getting adequate mineral intake from other sources:

Balanced Diet: Focus on consuming a variety of nutrient-rich foods, including fruits, vegetables, dairy products (if tolerated), and lean proteins.
Mineral Supplements: Consider taking a multivitamin or mineral supplement to compensate for the lack of minerals in distilled water. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage.
Mineral-Rich Foods with Meals: Incorporate foods rich in electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium when you drink distilled water, especially after exercise or other activities that cause fluid loss.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Relying Solely on Distilled Water for Hydration Without Mineral Intake: This is the most common mistake and can lead to mineral deficiencies over time.
Ignoring Potential Contamination During Storage: Store distilled water in clean, food-grade containers to prevent recontamination.
Using Incorrect Distillation Methods: Ensure the distillation process is properly executed to effectively remove impurities. Home distillation kits can vary in quality.

Comparing Distilled Water to Other Water Types

Water Type	Mineral Content	Impurity Level	pH	Common Uses
———————–	—————–	—————-	———–	—————————————————
Tap Water	Variable	Variable	Variable	Drinking, cooking, cleaning
Bottled Water	Variable	Generally Low	Variable	Drinking
Filtered Water	Reduced	Reduced	Variable	Drinking, cooking
Distilled Water	None	Virtually None	Slightly Acidic	Appliances, specific health needs, some cooking
Spring Water	Moderate	Low	Slightly Alkaline	Drinking

Why Might Someone Choose Distilled Water Daily?

Individuals might opt for distilled water due to:

Health concerns: Avoiding specific contaminants found in their local water supply.
Personal preference: Disliking the taste of tap water.
Specific health conditions: As recommended by a healthcare professional.
Appliance use: As previously discussed, to avoid mineral buildup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is distilled water acidic?

Yes, distilled water tends to be slightly acidic with a pH of around 5.8 to 7.0. The lack of minerals makes it more likely to absorb carbon dioxide from the air, which forms carbonic acid. However, this acidity is typically not harmful to human health.

Can distilled water help with detoxification?

Some believe so, but scientific evidence supporting this claim is limited. The idea is that the “empty” nature of distilled water may help draw out toxins and minerals from the body. A healthy liver and kidneys are your body’s primary detox organs, so a balanced diet and proper hydration with any potable water are more important.

Does drinking distilled water cause mineral deficiencies?

Drinking distilled water alone won’t necessarily cause immediate deficiencies, but long-term exclusive consumption without supplementing with minerals or obtaining them from food could potentially lead to imbalances.

Is it safe to drink distilled water during pregnancy?

Is it OK to drink distilled water every day during pregnancy? It is generally considered safe, but pregnant women have increased nutritional needs, including minerals. It’s even more crucial to ensure adequate mineral intake from diet and/or supplements under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Can I use distilled water for cooking?

Yes, distilled water is perfectly safe to use for cooking. It won’t add any unwanted minerals or flavors to your food. However, some people prefer the taste of tap water in certain dishes.

Does distilled water taste different from tap water?

Yes, it does. Many people find distilled water to have a bland or flat taste because it lacks the minerals that contribute to the taste of tap water. Some may prefer this clean taste, while others may find it unappealing.

How should I store distilled water?

Store distilled water in clean, food-grade containers. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or in areas where it could be exposed to contaminants. Using a tightly sealed container will also help prevent absorption of CO2 and keep the pH stable.

Is it OK to drink distilled water if I have kidney problems?

People with kidney problems should consult with their doctor or a registered dietician before consuming distilled water regularly. While it is generally safe for most, certain kidney conditions may require specific electrolyte and mineral considerations.

Can I make distilled water at home?

Yes, you can make distilled water at home using a stovetop or an electric distiller. However, ensure that the equipment is clean and properly maintained to avoid contamination. Follow instructions carefully to ensure effective distillation.

What are the alternatives to distilled water?

Alternatives include:

Filtered Water: Removes impurities while retaining some minerals.
Spring Water: Naturally filtered and contains minerals.
Mineral Water: Contains a high concentration of minerals.
Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water: Very pure but removes minerals.

Does boiling water at home make it distilled water?

No, simply boiling water at home does not produce distilled water. Boiling kills bacteria and viruses, but it doesn’t remove minerals and other impurities. True distillation requires evaporation and condensation.

Can drinking too much distilled water be harmful?

Excessive water consumption of any kind, including distilled water, can lead to a condition called hyponatremia, where the sodium concentration in the blood becomes dangerously low. This is rare, but it’s essential to drink water in moderation, especially after strenuous activity.