Vapor distilled water is a highly purified form of water processed to remove nearly all dissolved solids and contaminants. The direct answer is yes; it is safe for consumption and provides clean hydration. While short-term or occasional consumption poses no immediate danger, relying on it as a sole source over long periods presents specific nutritional and physiological considerations. Understanding the purification method is important before making it a regular part of your diet.
The Vapor Distillation Process
Vapor distillation is a purification method that mimics the natural hydrologic cycle of evaporation and condensation to create exceptionally pure water. The process begins by heating the source water to its boiling point, converting it into steam or vapor. Non-volatile substances like heavy metals, salts, and most inorganic minerals cannot evaporate, so they are left behind in the boiling chamber. The resulting pure steam is channeled into a cooling chamber (condenser). Inside the condenser, the steam is cooled rapidly, reverting back into its liquid state. This collected liquid is the finished distilled water, free from virtually all dissolved solids and contaminants.
Health Implications of Zero Mineral Content
The high purity achieved through distillation means the water contains almost no beneficial minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, which are naturally present in tap and spring water. While the majority of the body’s mineral intake comes from food, water can be a contributing source, particularly for these two elements. Long-term consumption of water devoid of these minerals is not widely recommended by health authorities.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised concerns that relying exclusively on demineralized water may be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and may contribute to lower bone density. When water lacks dissolved electrolytes, it can become “aggressive,” meaning it seeks to balance its composition by actively leaching minerals from anything it touches, including storage containers. The idea that distilled water acts as a powerful “detoxifier” that actively pulls toxins from the body is a misconception; its function is simply to provide hydration.
If demineralized water is consumed, the body’s intestines may need to pull electrolytes from internal reserves to balance the water before absorption. This can alter the delicate balance of minerals and water inside and outside cell membranes. This may lead to symptoms like general weakness, fatigue, or muscular cramps in severe cases. If you drink vapor distilled water regularly, maintaining a diet rich in mineral-containing whole foods is advised to ensure adequate intake of calcium and magnesium.
Non-Drinking Applications of Distilled Water
The lack of dissolved solids makes distilled water valuable in applications where mineral buildup is undesirable. When tap water is heated or evaporated, the minerals are left behind, forming scale or limescale deposits that can damage equipment. Distilled water avoids this problem entirely, making it the preferred choice for many household and technical devices.
Common uses include filling steam irons and humidifiers, where the absence of minerals prolongs appliance lifespan and prevents the emission of white mineral dust. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines, used for sleep apnea, also require distilled water to prevent mineral deposits from forming in the heating chamber and tubing. In automotive maintenance, distilled water is used to top off lead-acid car batteries and in cooling systems, as minerals can cause corrosion and interfere with performance.
Sensory Profile and Taste
Many people notice a difference in the sensory profile of distilled water compared to tap or spring water. The process removes the dissolved minerals, salts, and gases that contribute to the familiar taste and “mouthfeel” of ordinary water. This results in water often described as tasting “flat,” “dull,” or having a slightly metallic note. This lack of taste can be a practical consideration, as some individuals find the flavor unappealing, which may influence their desire to drink enough water for proper hydration.