Is Purified Water Good For You? Uncovering the Truth

Water is essential for life, and staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining good health. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which type of water is best for you. 

One popular option is purified water, which has been treated to remove impurities and contaminants. In this article, we will explore what purified water is, its ingredients, and the potential health benefits it may offer. 

We will also examine what experts have to say about purified water and whether it is a good choice for your health. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of whether purified water is good for you and whether it should be a part of your daily routine.

What is Purified Water?

Purified water is water that has undergone a purification process to remove impurities and contaminants, such as minerals, bacteria, viruses, and chemicals. This process can be done through various methods, such as distillation, reverse osmosis, or carbon filtration. 

Purified water is often sold in bottles or containers, and it can also be found in public water systems. While purified water does not contain any significant amounts of minerals or other trace elements found in natural spring water, it is generally considered safe for consumption and can be a good option for individuals looking for clean, safe drinking water.

Nutrition Facts of Purified Water

Purified water is a calorie-free and nutrient-free beverage. As a result, there are no significant nutritional facts to report. However, purified water is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle, as it helps to keep the body hydrated and supports various bodily functions. 

Additionally, purified water does not contain any added sugars, artificial sweeteners, or other additives that can contribute to poor health outcomes.

Pros and Cons

Here are some potential pros and cons of purified water:

Pros:

1. Clean and safe: Purified water has undergone a rigorous purification process, which removes impurities and contaminants, making it a clean and safe option for consumption.
2. Consistent quality: Purified water has a consistent quality, as it is subject to strict regulatory standards and quality control measures.
3. Versatility: Purified water can be used for a variety of purposes, including drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Cons:

1. Lacks minerals: Purified water typically lacks the minerals and other trace elements found in natural spring water, which can be important for some individuals’ health.
2. Environmental impact: The production and transportation of purified water can have a negative impact on the environment, contributing to plastic waste and greenhouse gas emissions.
3. Cost: Purified water can be more expensive than tap water, which can make it less accessible to individuals with limited financial resources.

Overall, while purified water is generally considered safe and clean, it may not be the best option for everyone. It is important to consider your individual needs and preferences when choosing a water source.

Health Benefits of Purified Water

Purified water is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle, as it helps to keep the body hydrated and supports various bodily functions. While there are no specific health benefits associated with purified water consumption, staying hydrated is critical for maintaining optimal health.

Some potential benefits of adequate hydration include:

1. Improved physical performance: Staying hydrated can improve physical performance, as it helps to regulate body temperature, lubricate joints, and deliver oxygen to muscles.
2. Better cognitive function: Dehydration can impair cognitive function, and adequate hydration has been linked to improved mood, concentration, and overall cognitive performance.
3. Weight management: Drinking water can help with weight management by reducing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness.

What Do Medical Experts Say About Purified Water?

Medical experts generally agree that drinking purified water is a healthy choice as it helps to keep the body hydrated and supports overall health. However, there are few specific quotes or studies on the topic as purified water is simply water that has been treated to remove impurities and contaminants.

According to the study titled as ‘The Human Right to Water’ published in the Journal of Water Policy explained that, “Purified water is water that has been mechanically filtered or processed to remove impurities and make it suitable for use. Purified water may meet the requirements for human consumption and other uses and is used for various purposes in medicine.”

The study in the Journal of Current Environmental Health Reports recommends drinking water to support oral health, stating that “Drinking fluoridated water is an effective and inexpensive way to prevent tooth decay. It has been 70 years since Grand Rapids, Michigan, became the first city in the world to fluoridate its drinking water.”

In general, medical experts recommend drinking plenty of water, including purified water, to support overall health and hydration.

Scientific Studies on Purified Water

As purified water is simply water that has been treated to remove impurities and contaminants, there are no specific studies that examine the health benefits of drinking purified water in comparison to other types of water. 

However, there are studies on the benefits of drinking water in general, which would also apply to purified water.

Here are five studies on the health benefits of drinking water:

1. Drinking Water and Weight Loss: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. This study found that drinking water before meals can help with weight loss. It suggests that drinking 500 mL of water before meals can help people eat fewer calories and lose weight.
2. Water intake on skin health and function: A systematic review. This study reviewed the literature about the water intake on skin health and found that increased water intake can improve skin hydration and thickness.
3. Hydration and Cognitive Function: A Review. This study found that mild dehydration can impair cognitive function, including memory, attention, and reaction time. It suggests that maintaining adequate hydration levels may be important for cognitive function.
4. The connection between drinking water and sleep quality in individuals with insomnia. This study found that increasing water intake can improve sleep quality in individuals with insomnia. It suggests that maintaining adequate hydration levels may be important for sleep quality.
5. Water, hydration and health. This review article examines the role of water in the body and the health benefits of adequate hydration. It suggests that maintaining adequate hydration levels can support various body functions, including regulating body temperature, promoting digestion, and supporting cognitive function.

What do Health experts say about Purified Water?

As purified water is a basic form of water, there is no specific expert commentary or literature that focuses solely on purified water. However, health experts generally recommend drinking enough water and staying hydrated for overall health benefits.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drinking water can help maintain body temperature, lubricate joints, protect the spinal cord, and remove waste from the body.

The CDC recommends drinking at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day or more depending on age, sex, weight, and activity level.

Who Should Avoid Purified Water?

There is no specific group of people who should avoid purified water. Purified water is generally safe and recommended for all individuals to stay hydrated and maintain good health. 

However, there are some exceptions where certain types of purified water may not be suitable for consumption. For example, individuals with weakened immune systems may need to avoid drinking water from certain sources, such as well water, if it has not been properly treated to remove harmful contaminants.

It is important to note that some purified water products may contain added minerals, such as sodium or magnesium, which may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions. For example, individuals with high blood pressure may need to limit their sodium intake.

Alternatives to Purified Water

1. Spring water: Spring water is collected from natural springs, which are typically located in remote and pristine areas. It is often filtered and bottled directly at the source, making it a popular alternative to purified water.
2. Alkaline water: Alkaline water has a higher pH level than tap or purified water, typically between 7.5 and 9.5. Some people believe that drinking alkaline water can help balance the body’s pH levels and provide additional health benefits.
3. Mineral water: Mineral water is sourced from underground springs and contains a range of minerals and trace elements, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Some people prefer mineral water for its perceived health benefits and natural taste.

FAQ

Can purified water help me lose weight?

Drinking water in general can help with weight loss by promoting feelings of fullness and reducing calorie intake. However, there is no evidence to suggest that purified water specifically has any weight loss benefits.

Can purified water help improve my skin health?

Staying hydrated in general can help improve skin health, but there is no evidence to suggest that purified water specifically has any skin benefits.

How much purified water should I drink per day?

The amount of water a person needs to drink per day can vary depending on factors such as age, sex, activity level, and climate. In general, a good guideline is to aim for 8-8oz glasses of water per day.

Can I use purified water for cooking and making coffee or tea?

Yes, purified water is safe to use for cooking and making beverages.

Is it safe to drink purified water on a regular basis?

Yes, purified water is safe to drink on a regular basis. However, it’s important to make sure that you are still getting enough essential minerals and nutrients from other sources in your diet.

Conclusion: Is Purified Water good for you?

Purified water is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle as it is free of impurities and contaminants. While it may not contain any added nutrients or minerals, it provides the necessary hydration the body needs to function properly.

It is important to note that the source of the water and the purification process used can impact its overall quality. As with any food or beverage, moderation is key to avoiding potential negative effects on health.

Overall, purified water can be considered good for you and is an important part of a healthy diet.

References

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2.        Penna VTC, Martins SAM, Mazzola PG. Identification of bacteria in drinking and purified water during the monitoring of a typical water purification system. BMC Public Health. 2002;2(1):1-11. https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1471-2458-2-13

3.        Sutherland K. Drinking and pure water: Filtration improvements progress global clean water provision. Filtration + Separation. 2012;49(2):12-16. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0015188212700988

4.        Penne EL, Visser L, Van Den Dorpel MA, et al. Microbiological quality and quality control of purified water and ultrapure dialysis fluids for online hemodiafiltration in routine clinical practice. Kidney International. 2009;76(6):665-672. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0085253815540325

5.        Gleick PH. Basic water requirements for human activities: Meeting basic needs. Water International. 1996;21(2):83-92. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/02508069608686494

6.        Cidu R, Frau F, Tore P. Drinking water quality: Comparing inorganic components in bottled water and Italian tap water. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis. 2011;24(2):184-193. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0889157510002838

7.        Islam MS, Uddin MJ, Alshehri K. Plastic waste and carbon footprint generation due to the consumption of bottled waters in Saudi Arabia. Research & Development in Material Science. 2018;5:1-3. https://crimsonpublishers.com/rdms/fulltext/RDMS.000604.php

8.        Doria MF. Bottled water versus tap water: Understanding consumers’ preferences. Journal of Water and Health. 2006;4(2):271-276. https://iwaponline.com/jwh/article

9.        Shirreffs S. Hydration in sport and exercise: Water, sports drinks and other drinks. Nutrition Bulletin. 2009;34(4):374-379. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1467-3010.2009.01790.x

10.      Moloney P. Mindfulness: The bottled water of the therapy industry. In: Purser R, Forbes D, Burke A, eds. Handbook of Mindfulness: Mindfulness in Behavioral Health. Springer; 2016:269-292. https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-44019-4_18

11.      Dennis EA, Dengo AL, Comber DL, et al. Water consumption increases weight loss during a hypocaloric diet intervention in middle‐aged and older adults. Obesity. 2010;18(2):300-307. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1038/oby.2009.235

12.      Gleick PH. The human right to water. Water Policy. 1998;1(5):487-503. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1366701799000082

13.      Srivastava S, Flora S. Fluoride in drinking water and skeletal fluorosis: A review of the global impact. Current Environmental Health Reports. 2020;7:140-146. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40572-020-00270-9

14.      Palma L, Marques LT, Bujan J, Rodrigues LM. Dietary water affects human skin hydration and biomechanics. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology. 2015;8:413-421. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.2147/CCID.S86822

15.      Zwawy MA, Al-Husayni FA, Alamri SA, et al. Association between amount of water intake and quality of sleep in adults – Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. International Journal of Advanced Research (IJAR). 2018;6(1):2320-5407. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/334132529

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