Water might be the simplest thing we drink, but it’s also one of the most debated. In recent years, grocery aisles have become flooded with bottles labeled “distilled,” “purified,” “spring,” and “alkaline.” Each promises purity and better health. But when it comes to distilled versus purified water, the differences can be subtle.
Some people swear by the clean, mineral-free taste of distilled water, while others claim that purified water strikes the right balance between cleanliness and nutrition. So, let’s find out which one truly deserves a place in your glass.
The Science Behind What’s In Your Water
Before choosing between distilled and purified water, it helps to understand what’s actually in typical tap water. In the United States, municipal water supplies are monitored by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), which sets strict limits on contaminants such as lead and bacteria. Still, depending on where you live, your water may contain trace minerals as well as varying amounts of chlorine used for disinfection.
Both distillation and purification are methods of removing those impurities, but they work differently. Distillation is one of the oldest forms of water treatment. The process involves boiling water until it turns to steam, then condensing that steam back into liquid form. The result is water stripped of nearly everything, including minerals.
Purified water, on the other hand, includes techniques like reverse osmosis and carbon filtration. These methods remove up to 99% of contaminants but can leave behind trace amounts of healthy minerals, depending on the system used.
The Purity Debate
At first glance, distilled water might sound like the clear winner. After all, it’s virtually free of any impurities. Yet, health experts argue that water’s value lies in what it carries. Trace minerals play subtle but important roles in maintaining hydration and supporting bodily functions.
As per the World Health Organization, drinking water that is completely demineralized may not be ideal over the long term. Their research found that people who consume exclusively distilled water may experience lower intake of essential minerals and, in some cases, altered electrolyte balance. While these effects are more likely if your diet is poor in minerals, they highlight an important point that purity isn’t always synonymous with health.
Which Water Works Best for You?
So, is distilled water healthier than purified water? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. Distilled water is the purest, but not necessarily the healthiest. It’s an excellent choice for short-term hydration needs, especially if your tap water is contaminated or you’re traveling to an area where the water quality might not be good. However, for everyday drinking, purified water provides a more natural balance to support your body’s hydration and electrolyte needs.
