Reverse Osmosis is a water filtering technique that utilizes semipermeable membranes that filter contaminants from water. It was initially developed to make the sea water drinkable, and also to lower the amount of the presence of heavy metals in water. Nowadays, it is used in household water filtering systems.
Reverse osmosis systems can be highly efficient for water filtration as they remove various waterborne contaminants. They remove impurities such as viruses, bacteria, and heavy metals as well as fluorides, volatile organic compounds as well as hard minerals.
RO systems are excellent in their job, but there’s a drawback. The WHO declares that the lower mineral water created by RO systems is likely to affect the health of humans, particularly after prolonged consumption adversely.
Following these reports have affected homeowners who rely upon reverse-osmosis technology to get water purification have been nervous. Many people are wondering whether RO Water is really safe to drink and if it’s still an investment worth making. There are many aspects to take into consideration before deciding on this.
In this article, we’ll discuss the reasons why RO water might be thought to be as harmful. We’ll also consider the pros against the disadvantages to see whether RO water is worth the cost.
How is RO Water Harmful to Health?
Reverse osmosis can remove a large number of impurities from water. This is a problem, as it removes an enormous amount (90-99 percent) of beneficial minerals such as magnesium and calcium. Based on a variety of studies carried out by WHO, water that is demineralized or low in mineral content can be harmful to your health. As per WHO research, consequences of drinking the demineralized RO water show up immediately.
In a couple of weeks or a few months, those who drink demineralized water might be able to notice signs that indicate the presence of calcium or magnesium deficiencies. Other issues such as cardiovascular problems include muscle cramps, fatigue, and weakness. The consumption of water with low mineral content has also been linked to the risk of fractures being more likely in infants, pregnancy-related disorders, and neurodegenerative disorders in particular.
Demineralized water can cause malnutrition and drain existing minerals within our bodies (meaning that the body absorbs minerals derived from the food consumed by the person through urine).
Even when it is used to cook RO water can leach away essential minerals from food items.
Is RO Water Still a Good Option?
While RO systems create demineralized waterbut they offer some advantages. Reverse osmosis systems are among of the most efficient filters that are currently available. If you opt to get rid of RO filtering, then you could need to contend with contaminants such as arsenic, lead, chlorine bacteria, as well as large amounts of total dissolved solids (TDS), which are present in tap water. In comparison to water that is demineralized, these contaminants could cause more health issues.
Reverse Osmosis filters can be vital in areas of low quality water. They improve the potability of water and help prevent from the spreading of waterborne illness.
If you’re well-balanced in your diet, you’ll experience any adverse effects from the demineralization of water. It is possible to supplement the minerals you don’t get from drinking water by eating food items. In general, water shouldn’t be the primary source of nutrients, therefore changing the food you eat to incorporate more vitamins and minerals can provide you with the necessary nutrients.
If you’re still concerned about how demineralized water is affecting your health There are ways to avoid it.
Certain reverse osmosis filters come with an remineralization process which allows healthy minerals to be put back into the water. Of of course, the water may not have the same amount of minerals that regular water does but it’s much better than not having any mineral content in your water in any way. With more minerals in your drinking water, negative effects of RO water decrease significantly.
Best Reverse Osmosis Filters
We have listed mainly under-sink filters as they are the more popular kind that RO filters. If you’d prefer an RO filter that doesn’t have any installation requirements, then you will locate at least five RO filters for your countertop which are equally efficient.
We also considered including filters with a remineralization function as they’re a better option.
- Home Master Artesian
The Home Master system is an under-sink system that comes with a remineralization feature. The filter is able to add beneficial minerals to the water in two distinct stages before finally dispensing the minerals. It is easy to change filter cartridges and does not come with the bulky housing for filtering. It is also specifically designed to cut down on water usage significantly.
- iSpring RCC7AK
The filter has been highly praised for its ability to remineralize. It is able to work in 6 stages, with the alkaline Remineralization being the final step. The filtering alkaline needs to be replaced twice per year The RO membrane is able to last for at least 3 years before it requires a replacement.
- APEC Essence ROES-PH75
APEC essence also comes with a remineralization option. It is a six-stage filtering procedure, the final stage is an alkaline calcium filtration system that will make the water taste similar to the taste of bottled water. It is ideal for cabinets with small spaces. Installation is also easy and requires plumbing.
Reverse osmosis water could be lacking in certain minerals, but it’s recommended to drink it with the proper precautions. If you’re concerned about the presence of contamination in the water you drink, look into purchasing one. It’s all that matters is that you take necessary precautions to make sure that you’re not deficient in nutrients that you require to remain healthy.