Do Water Filters Remove Essential Minerals?
Published October 6, 2024.
Do we need the minerals in water? The answer depends on who you ask.
Some believe the minerals are found in such trace amounts that they have no real benefit for the body, and it's better to filter the water from all compounds (potentially harmful chemicals and minerals) to reduce the risk of waterborne illness. Others believe the minerals in drinking water significantly supplement our dietary intake, especially calcium and magnesium which are better absorbed from water than food.
However, the consensus is that we need the minerals in our drinking water, especially in countries that have overall poor nutrition. The minerals in water help to reduce the likelihood of deficiencies and help the body function optimally, such as contributing to hemoglobin production, strong teeth and bones, a healthy immune and nervous system, optimum muscle functioning, and maintaining a balance of water around the cells in the body.
Consequences of Removing Minerals From Water
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning confirming that drinking demineralized water causes more and faster bodily harm than most potentially harmful contaminants found in tap water.
Drinking demineralized water has a negative effect on the body’s homeostasis system, because it leaches minerals from the body. Minerals consumed from food and vitamins are just urinated away. Coupled with low mineral intake results in more severe mineral imbalances that have been shown to have a detrimental effect on kidney functioning, hormone secretion, and bone mineral density.
