Distillation is indeed one of the most common and cheapest water filtration methods there is. But are you sure about the health effects of drinking distilled water?
In the distillation process, water is boiled and is evaporated. The vapor produced will then condense, and the water droplets will be collected. The product is free of minerals, but when it comes into contact with air, it will absorb carbon dioxide and become acidic.
Pros and Cons of Distilled Water
Distilled water can absorb toxic substances from your system and eliminate them. While this detoxification function seems beneficial, using distilled water to eliminate toxins should be done short-term, or you may suffer from mineral deficiencies and high acidity. Aside from leeching toxins from your body, it can also absorb minerals.
Because of this, you can lose electrolytes (such as sodium, chloride, and potassium), and other trace minerals. Mineral deficiencies can make you prone to cardiac problems, high blood pressure, and cognitive issues.
Furthermore, distilled water may give dangerous disinfection byproducts (DBPs) and other chemicals easy entry into your body:
Any pollutant that vaporizes at a lower temperature than that of the distilled water, including DBPs, will be condensed and become very concentrated in the distilled water.
Disinfection byproducts are formed when chlorine is used to filter water – specifically when chlorine reacts with organic matter in the source water. According to research, DBPs are carcinogenic and can increase your risk of certain cancers.
To compensate for its lack of minerals, distilled water can pull out anything it comes into contact with. For instance, if you put distilled water in a plastic container, it can absorb dangerous chemicals from the plastic, such as phthalates or bisphenol-A.
Another case would be if you’re using a distiller made of metal. Distilled water can be exposed to metals like nickel.
Distillation is not as effective, as heavy metals, like lead, do not vaporize and are left behind in the water. Plus, chlorine when vaporized will turn to a dangerous gas like chloroform.
PH Level Is Important
While distilled water is too acidic, alkaline water is too alkaline. Too much of alkaline water can also cause problems in your system. It is important to drink water that has the ideal pH levels, which is close to seven (between 6.5 and 7.5 is ideal). You may also normalize your pH by juicing vegetables.
One safe and pure source of water is mountain springs. The water you obtain from springs is naturally filtered by the earth and contains healthy microorganisms that can promote optimal health.
If you don’t have access to this type of water, you should invest in a different kind of water filter.
By Joanne Dixon
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