Can You Drink Distilled Water?
by Dr. Jonathan Doyle - Updated December 3, 2024
Water is a vital part of our daily lives, and ensuring its quality is essential for maintaining good health. Among various types of drinking water,
distilled water often sparks curiosity and questions. Can you drink distilled water? Is it safe, and does it offer any health benefits? For Canadians,
understanding the properties of distilled water and its impact on your health is key to making informed decisions.
What Is Distilled Water?
Distilled water is created through a process called distillation.
During this process, water is boiled to produce steam. The steam is then condensed back into liquid form, leaving impurities, minerals, and contaminants
behind. The result is pure water that is free from:
- Bacteria and viruses
- Heavy metals
- Salts and minerals
- Chemical contaminants

How Does Distilled Water Differ From Other Types of Water?
Distilled water differs from tap water, spring water, and filtered water in several ways:
- Tap Water: Contains minerals and potential contaminants depending on the local water source and treatment methods.
- Spring Water: Naturally sourced and may contain beneficial minerals but is not always free from impurities.
- Filtered Water: Typically treated to remove contaminants while retaining some beneficial minerals.
- Distilled Water: Pure and free from all contaminants and minerals, making it the cleanest option.
Is It Safe to Drink Distilled Water?
Distilled water is considered safe to drink. Here are some potential benefits:
- Free of Contaminants: Distillation removes harmful substances like lead, mercury, and chlorine, making it suitable for people with compromised immune systems.
- Neutral Taste: Some people prefer its clean and neutral flavor, especially if their tap water has a strong chlorine or metallic taste.
- Useful in Detoxification: Its purity can support detox diets or cleansing programs by minimizing additional intake of impurities.
Potential Drawbacks of Distilled Water
Despite its benefits, drinking distilled water has some drawbacks:
- Lacks Essential Minerals: Important minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium are removed during distillation. Over time, relying solely on distilled water may lead to mineral deficiencies.
- May Taste Bland: The absence of minerals can result in a flat or bland taste, which some people find unappealing.
- Electrolyte Imbalance: If consumed exclusively and in large quantities, distilled water may contribute to electrolyte imbalances in the body.

Canadian Water Quality Standards
Canada boasts stringent water quality standards, and most
municipal tap water
is safe to drink. However, the quality of tap water can vary depending on the region and local infrastructure. Distilled water can be a good alternative in
areas where tap water quality is uncertain or for specific health needs.
Situations Where Distilled Water May Be Beneficial
- Medical Use: For individuals undergoing medical treatments that require pure water, such as dialysis.
- Travel: When traveling to areas with questionable water quality, distilled water can provide a safe option.
- Home Appliances: Distilled water is often recommended for use in humidifiers and steam irons to prevent mineral buildup.
How to Reintroduce Minerals
If you prefer distilled water but are concerned about the lack of minerals, you can:
- Add electrolyte drops or mineral supplements.
- Incorporate mineralrich foods into your diet.
- Alternate between distilled water and other mineralrich water sources.
Is Distilled Water Sustainable?
Distilled water production can have a significant environmental impact due to the energy-intensive distillation process. Canadians who are environmentally
conscious may consider the following:
Energy Use
Distillation requires heating water to its boiling point, which consumes more energy compared to other water purification methods like filtration.
Plastic Waste
Purchasing bottled distilled water contributes to plastic waste. Using a home distillation system can help reduce this impact.

Filtered Water vs. Distilled Water
Filtered water is a great alternative for those seeking clean and safe drinking water without the loss of essential minerals. Advanced water filters can
remove most contaminants while retaining beneficial minerals, making it a balanced choice.
Reverse Osmosis Water
Reverse osmosis (RO) systems are
another popular option in Canada. These systems remove up to 99% of impurities, including heavy metals and bacteria, while often allowing the reintroduction
of minerals for better taste and health benefits.
Final Verdict: Should You Drink Distilled Water?
Distilled water is safe for drinking and offers the purest form of water available. However, it lacks essential minerals, which may not be ideal for
long-term consumption. For Canadians, the choice to drink distilled water depends on individual health needs, water quality concerns, and personal
preferences. If you opt for distilled water, ensure you maintain a balanced diet to compensate for the absence of minerals.
Can Babies Drink Distilled Water?
Yes, distilled water can be used to prepare infant formula. Its purity ensures that no harmful substances are introduced. However, it should not replace
regular water for hydration as babies require minerals for development.
Is Boiled Water the Same as Distilled Water?
No, boiled water is not the same as distilled water. Boiling kills bacteria but does not remove dissolved solids or minerals. Distillation removes all
impurities, making it purer than boiled water.
Where Can I Buy Distilled Water in Canada?
Distilled water is widely available in supermarkets, pharmacies, and online stores across Canada. You can also invest in a home distillation system for
convenience.
Final Thoughts
While distilled water is highly pure and free of contaminants, it lacks essential minerals, making it unsuitable for daily drinking. Regular consumption of
distilled water may lead to mineral deficiencies and an imbalance in your body’s natural electrolytes.
For a healthier and more sustainable option,
reverse osmosis (RO) water
stands out as the best choice. RO water not only removes harmful impurities but also retains or can be enhanced with essential minerals, providing clean and
healthy hydration for daily consumption. Prioritize your health by choosing reverse osmosis water over distilled water for everyday drinking needs.