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From:	Mark (71.17.102.242)
Subject:	A neat link to read about demineralized water
Date:	May 21, 2012 at 3:38 pm PST

In Reply to: Re: Articles like this that have me questioning what is our best choice for healthy water. posted by Dr. Doug Graham on May 21, 2012 at 3:46 am:

A neat link to read about demineralized water http://www.live-in-green.com/health_info/problematic_products/demineralised_water.html

Some points within the article

Properties of demineralised or distilled water:
1.Highly aggressive

After the removal of minerals and other dissolved substances, pure water becomes very unstable. The aggressive demineralised water would attack the water distribution pipe and storage tanks, leaching metals and other materials from them. If untreated, its distribution through pipes and storage tanks would be impossible. (Source: WHO 2004 paper, section 1)

When demineralised or distilled water is ingested, the intestine has to add electrolytes (mineral ions such as potassium and sodium) to this water first. Hence it would take minerals away from the body reserves. As our bodies always eliminate fluid (urine or sweat) together with salts, intake of demineralised or distilled water results in dilution of the electrolytes dissolved in the body water. (Source: WHO 2004 paper, section 2.1)

2.Acidic

Theoretically, pure distilled water or demineralised water should be neutral in pH value (i.e. pH 7). However, because of the unstable nature of such water, it will rapidly absorb carbon dioxide in the air, making the water acidic, hence more corrosive to pipes and storage tanks. Freshly distilled water may reach an acidic pH as low as 5.5 in a very short time. Acidic water is not a healthy choice for drinking.

3.Poor taste characteristics

Based on a study report by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 1980, low-minerals water with a TDS of 25-50 mg/l was described as tasteless. (Source: WHO 2004 paper, section 3)

4.Less thirst quenching (Source: WHO 2004 paper, section 2.1)

Demineralised or distilled water is less thirst quenching than water rich in minerals. This property may affect the amount of water consumed, and induce consumers to turn to other less satisfactory water sources or beverages (e.g. soft drinks, carbonated water, tea, coffee etc.)

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