How Bad Is Reverse Osmosis Water?

Reverse osmosis water is water that has been purified through a process called reverse osmosis, where water is forced through a semi-permeable membrane that removes impurities, contaminants, and dissolved solids, resulting in cleaner, safer drinking water.

Reverse osmosis is an effective water purification method that removes many impurities, including dissolved salts and minerals; however, it can also eliminate beneficial mineral nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium from the water, leading to a lower mineral content in the filtered water.

Scientists Issue Caution Regarding Reverse Osmosis Water

Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems are effective at removing water impurities, but they also eliminate beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium, as well as trace elements. A scientific report indicates that demineralized water has adverse effects on both humans and animals, highlighting that the focus on removing contaminants has overshadowed the importance of the health benefits provided by minerals in water. Thus, healthier water is not solely defined by the absence of contaminants.

Significant Adverse Effects Within a Short Time Frame

Consuming reverse osmosis water for just a few months can lead to serious health issues, as seen in Czech and Slovak populations who adopted these systems between 2000 and 2002. Reports emerged of acute magnesium and calcium deficiencies, with symptoms like cardiovascular disorders, tiredness, weakness, and muscular cramps appearing within weeks or months of use.

The Situation Deteriorates Further.

Reverse osmosis water lacks essential minerals, leading to mineral depletion in the body, which can result in serious health issues. A scientific study indicated that low-mineral water does not compensate for dietary mineral intake, negatively impacting homeostasis and leading to increased mineral excretion. This consumption causes dilution of body electrolytes, potentially compromising vital organ function and resulting in initial symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and headaches, with more severe effects including muscle cramps and irregular heart rates.

The Role of Reverse Osmosis Filters that Reintroduce Minerals

Reverse osmosis water can have harmful side effects, leading to a trend of re-mineralization. However, scientists note that no current methods of re-mineralization fully restore the water’s beneficial components. It’s nearly impossible to recreate natural water’s complete mineral profile, raising concerns about the risks of consuming reverse osmosis water when healthier alternatives exist.

The Report Proceeds Further…

Calcium and magnesium are essential for human health, contributing to bones, teeth, neuromuscular function, and over 300 enzymatic reactions. While not the primary dietary sources, supplemental intake from drinking water may be significant, especially in industrialized countries where diets may lack these minerals. Epidemiological studies have linked low calcium and magnesium water to higher risks of cardiovascular disease, fractures, neurodegenerative diseases, and certain cancers. Reverse osmosis water may pose additional health risks, including hypertension and pregnancy complications, due to nutrient loss during cooking. Women in areas with low-mineral water have shown increased cardiovascular issues and other health problems compared to those in regions with mineral-rich water.