Details: Category: Region 9; Published: 07 June 2022

Water Water is essential for health. Drinking enough water each day is crucial for regulating our body temperature, preventing infections, cellular nutrient distribution, joint lubrication, and even keeping our organs functioning. We all know how important water intake is, but some people are confused about the best type of water to drink. People are wondering about the difference between purified, distilled, and mineral water.

Purified water undergoes a filtration or purification process to remove impurities including bacteria, algae, fungi, and parasites, metals like copper and lead, and chemical pollutants. It is usually produced using groundwater or tap water. While tap water is safe to drink in many areas, it may still contain trace contaminants. Heavy metals such as lead and copper can leach into drinking water and can cause harm to your health. By using water purification systems, these heavy metals, chemicals, and other contaminants can be removed depending on the type of purification system used. Purifying water can also improve its quality and taste.

Distilled water, on the other hand, is a type of purified water. Distilled water has gone through the process of distillation to remove impurities. Distillation involves boiling water and collecting the steam, which returns to water upon cooling. This process is very effective at removing contaminants like bacteria, viruses, protozoa like giardia, and chemicals like lead and sulfate. Although the distillation process is very effective at removing potentially harmful contaminants, it can also remove the natural minerals like calcium and magnesium and electrolytes found in water.

Moreover, mineral water is better than purified and distilled waters in the taste category because it already comes with flavor-enhancing minerals. Mineral water usually comes from natural springs and has plenty of dissolved gases and minerals such as calcium carbonate, potassium, and sodium sulfate. One can also prepare it artificially by adding salts to distilled water or through aeration (bringing together air and water to take away undesirable substances). Some of the minerals and their biological functions found in mineral water include calcium for bone development and muscle regulation, chlorine for hydrochloric acid formation, phosphorus for protein synthesis, magnesium for bone formation, and potassium for muscle and myocardial activities.

If you are concerned about the safety of your water, you may purchase a filtration system instead of buying outside. You may have your own preference on what to drink. What is important is for you to drink enough water (8-10 glasses or more) to keep your bodily functions normal. Drink water adequately!

PNFP Rowence F. Zorilla, RND

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