Remember when you could drink water out of a hose and feel good about yourself? Those days have come and gone and there is a lot more to consider about the quality and type of water you drink. From glacial spring water to water that is fortified with vitamins, it is evident that there is an endless supply of water. In response to new filtration methods and water treatment or purification, two forms of water have become very popular, especially in the health world: distilled water and alkaline water.
Around 71% of the planet and 60% of the human body is comprised of water, yet we don’t drink enough of it. Some people claim that the taste of water is off-putting or that they don’t need it. Correction, people, you need water to live. Failure to hydrate properly can lead to reduced energy levels, mood swings, and improper cell function, so drink your water!
What Is Distilled Water?
Distilled water, which is readily available in supermarkets, is the result of boiling tap water and collecting the condensed steam. Impurities, which were in the water, get left behind in the steam. This process also removes minerals, which are not removed in typical filtration methods, from the water. This is why distilled water tastes different than filtered water. Because distilled water is void of minerals, it is slightly acidic. The idea behind drinking distilled water to promote natural detoxification is that it doesn’t flood your body with chlorine, fluoride, and other unpleasant compounds that can be in tap or bottled water.
What Is Alkaline Water?
Alkaline water is water that has been ionized, which naturally increases the the pH of the water. The pH level of a substance determines how acidic or alkaline it is, with 0 being very acidic and 14 being extremely basic. Alkaline water typically has a pH level of about 8 or 9, whereas normal water is neutral at 7. The theory is that drinking alkaline water helps to neutralize acids that are secreted inside the body. In doing so, you help establish an alkaline environment, which can reportedly assist with better function of bodily organs and systems. Alkaline water is filtered through ionizers, including calcium, potassium, and magnesium, which are necessary for electrolysis to work properly.
Which Water Is Better For Your Health?
Diseases thrive in acidic environments, and a diet rich in raw fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds helps establish a more alkaline environment in the body. Unlike acid-producing foods (white flour, refined sugars, and processed foods), the aforementioned healthy foods are beneficial for the body. Unfortunately, many people consume junk foods, fast foods, and processed foods, all of which are acid-forming, because they are readily available in the fast-paced lifestyles we lead.
Alkaline water has become increasingly popular because people think it will counteract their acidic dietary choices. This is not the case, but drinking alkaline water does provide the body with antioxidants that are beneficial for healthier cells. Although distilled water is acidic, it is free of contaminants. If drinking contaminated water worries you, distilled water is a great option. That’s really the one thing that it has going for it, though. It is “pure” water, but it isn’t better than alkaline water because it doesn’t seem to be as beneficial for your health.
In conclusion, distilled water is not a healthy long-term alternative to tap or regular bottled water. It is beneficial for short-term detox purposes, but it isn’t as beneficial for regular everyday consumption. Alkaline water, on the other hand, can enhance the presence of magnesium, calcium, and potassium in the body, while also removing unwanted contaminants like chlorine and heavy metals in the process. Alkaline water is simply a more sustainable long-term alternative to tap and distilled water.
