Why would you want deionized water?
Magnesium, calcium and iron are minerals that contain a positive or negative charge. This 'charge' is referred to as an 'ion'. (Pronounced: eye-on).
In some cases, water needs to be purified of these ions as those trace minerals can have a negative effect. Think about the medical profession.
A saline wash to cleanse your eye or a medical drip needs to be as pure as possible. Deionized water makes that so. Water, when stripped bare is simply H20. But most water comes with an array of added extras and if that eye wash wasn't deionized it could lead to contamination.
What is deionized water used for?
The Food, Medical, Cosmetics and Manufacturing industries rely on deionized water. Something as innocent as tomato sauce is made with water and it needs to be pure because, well you're going to eat it.
So when it comes to processed food, deonized or distilled water would be the primary choice.
Manufacturers use deionized water to wash, cool and lubricate production parts (from car doors to air conditioning elements). Anything other than distilled or deionized water could leave trace chemicals that might lead to early corrosion.
Even your daily moisturiser and lipstick contains water that's been deionized.
Water is used as a solvent and if the pH or chemical formula of the water is out, it will affect the end product. Using deionized water ensures the same result each time.
Can you drink deionized water?
Some say you can but most say you can't. Why? Because deionized water systems involve a chemical process that demineralises it and that is problematic.
The World Health Organization (WHO) says this:
The possible adverse consequences of low mineral content water consumption are discussed in the following categories:
- Direct effects on the intestinal mucous membrane, metabolism and mineral homeostasis or other body functions.
- Little or no intake of calcium and magnesium from low-mineral water.
- Low intake of other essential elements and microelements.
- Loss of calcium, magnesium and other essential elements in prepared food.
- Possible increased dietary intake of toxic metals.
What are the benefits of deionized water?
The benefits are in its purity which, as mentioned above are mostly applicable to industry.
Deionized vs distilled water?
Both are a form of purified water but the end result is slightly different.
Distillation occurs by boiling water and collecting the steam. It won't contain toxins but will contain minerals.
Deonized water has gone through a chemical process to extract the minerals. Other toxins can still remain.
How to make deionized water
Making deionized water at home requires a filter system and it's not cheap. Davaro Products in Germany produce a demineralisation system for 229 Euros (AUD $371).
Where to buy deionized water
Demineralised (deionized) water is useful for household appliances like irons and car radiators and if the research is right, that's probably the best way to use it, rather than drinking it.
You can buy demineralised water at Woolworths, RRP $3.50 for 5 litres.
