Is Reverse Osmosis Water Healthy?

Clean, safe drinking water is essential to our health and to our well-being. To ensure our water is as pure as possible, many people turn to reverse osmosis (RO) water systems. Although RO water is nearly contaminate-free and possesses remarkable advantages, it comes with its share of concerns that are worth considering when selecting the type of water filtration system that will best meet your needs. 

Understanding Reverse Osmosis

First, let's clarify what reverse osmosis is. RO is a water purification process that uses a semipermeable membrane to remove contaminants from water. It's highly effective at eliminating various impurities, including heavy metals, chemicals, and microorganisms, making it a popular choice for those seeking ultra-clean water.

The Pros of RO Water

Purity: One of the most significant advantages of RO water is its purity. RO systems can remove up to 99% of most contaminants, ensuring that the water you drink is virtually free from harmful substances.

Improved Taste: Many people find that RO water tastes better than tap water due to the removal of chlorine and other taste-altering compounds.

Safety: RO systems provide an extra layer of safety, particularly in areas with questionable water quality, by effectively eliminating bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

Customization: RO systems are able to address specific water quality concerns, making them a versatile choice for various regions and needs. For example, you can optimize your RO system with Alkaline filters like RTW5AK to enhance mineral balance. Additionally, you can incorporate ultraviolet filters like RTW5U to provide effective protection against chlorine-resistant impurities.

Potential Concerns with RO Water

Mineral Removal: While RO systems excel at removing contaminants, they are equally efficient at eliminating essential minerals from water. This can affect the overall mineral balance in the water, potentially impacting your health.

Acidity: RO water can be slightly acidic due to its lower mineral content. Some experts argue that prolonged consumption of acidic water may affect the body's pH balance. If you are concerned about these issues, you might consider the PureDrop RTW5AK, which is designed to maintain mineral balance in the water, restoring the stripped minerals and eliminating this concern.

Wastewater Generation: Reverse osmosis systems produce wastewater for every gallon of purified water. This might be an environmental concern in water-scarce areas. However, it's worth noting that the wastewater generated can still be repurposed for various non-potable uses like watering plants, cleaning, or flushing toilets, which can mitigate its environmental impact.

So, Is RO Water Healthy?

RO water is undoubtedly a safe and clean option that can be part of a healthy lifestyle. However, it is important that you consider your specific circumstances and reflect on the impact drinking RO water can have on you. It can be crucial for situations where water quality is a concern by eliminating contaminants, providing consumers with worry-free water. For long-term use, you should consider remineralization or ensure you are maintaining a balanced diet to get the essential minerals that are removed during the RO process.

Whether you choose RO water or not, the ultimate goal is clear: safe, clean, and healthy drinking water for you and your family. For more information on your local water quality and available filtration options, you can visit Environmental Working Group's Tap Water Database.