How To Remineralise Water

Ever wonder why some water tastes so much better, so much more "alive" than others? It's not just your imagination. Much of the water we drink, especially after being filtered or purified, is stripped of its natural minerals. These minerals, like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, are not only essential for our health, but they also contribute significantly to the taste and overall quality of the water. Think of them as the building blocks for optimal hydration and well-being.

Remineralising water is a simple process that can significantly improve your health and the enjoyment of your drinking water. By restoring these vital minerals, you're not just quenching your thirst; you're providing your body with essential nutrients that support everything from bone strength and muscle function to nerve health and electrolyte balance. Given the wide range of options available for re-mineralization, from natural stones to specialized filters, understanding how to effectively and safely remineralise your water empowers you to make informed choices about your hydration.

What are the best methods for remineralising water at home, and are there any potential downsides to consider?

What minerals are best to add when remineralising water?

The best minerals to add when remineralising water are calcium and magnesium, ideally in a ratio of approximately 2:1. Adding a small amount of potassium and sodium can also contribute to a more balanced mineral profile and improve the taste.

Remineralising water, particularly after processes like reverse osmosis or distillation which strip water of its natural mineral content, is important for improving its taste and potential health benefits. Calcium is crucial for bone health, muscle function, and nerve transmission. Magnesium plays a vital role in energy production, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation. The 2:1 ratio is often cited because that's closer to the naturally occurring ratio in many healthy water sources and is considered optimal for absorption. While calcium and magnesium are the primary focus, including trace amounts of other minerals can further enhance the water's properties. Potassium contributes to electrolyte balance and nerve function, while sodium helps regulate fluid balance. These should be added sparingly, as excessive sodium intake can be detrimental to health. Some remineralisation products also incorporate trace minerals like zinc, selenium, and iron, although these are typically present in very small amounts. Always check the mineral content and ensure it aligns with your individual needs and health goals.

How does the pH level change when you remineralise water?

Remineralising water generally increases its pH level, making it more alkaline. This is because the minerals added during the remineralisation process, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, are alkaline in nature and counteract the acidity of purified or softened water.

Remineralisation aims to restore the beneficial minerals removed during purification processes like reverse osmosis or distillation, which often result in water with a low pH (acidic). Acidic water can be corrosive and may leach metals from pipes, posing health concerns. The addition of alkaline minerals not only improves the taste and health benefits of water but also raises its pH towards a more neutral or slightly alkaline range, typically between 7 and 8.5. The extent of the pH increase depends on several factors, including the initial pH of the water, the type and concentration of minerals used for remineralisation, and the contact time between the water and the mineral source. Some remineralisation filters or systems are designed to achieve a specific pH target, while others provide a more general increase. Regularly testing the pH of remineralised water is recommended to ensure it falls within the desired range and to monitor the effectiveness of the remineralisation process.

Is remineralising water necessary for all types of water?

Remineralising water isn't strictly necessary for all types of water, but it's primarily beneficial, and sometimes crucial, for water that has been stripped of its natural mineral content, such as distilled or reverse osmosis (RO) water. Tap water and most bottled spring waters naturally contain minerals and do not require additional remineralisation unless you specifically desire a higher mineral content or a different mineral profile.

The need for remineralisation arises from the fact that distilled and RO water, while exceptionally pure, lack essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These minerals contribute to the water's taste and, more importantly, are vital for various bodily functions. Drinking demineralised water exclusively over a long period could potentially lead to mineral deficiencies, although this is a topic of ongoing debate and depends on individual dietary intake. Many people find that water devoid of minerals tastes "flat" or unappealing, and remineralisation improves its palatability.

For those using distilled or RO systems for drinking water, several methods exist to restore these minerals. Adding mineral drops or using remineralisation filters directly to the system are common approaches. Another option is to add a pinch of Himalayan pink salt or a small amount of baking soda to a gallon of water. However, it's important to research and use reputable sources for mineral additives to ensure safety and quality. Furthermore, the quantity of minerals added should be carefully considered to avoid excessive intake.

How to remineralise water:

What are some natural ways to remineralise water at home?

Remineralising water at home naturally involves adding minerals back into purified or filtered water using readily available materials. Some effective methods include using mineral stones like shungite or Himalayan salt crystals, adding mineral-rich natural salts, or creating a DIY mineral filter with layers of sand, gravel, and activated charcoal. These methods aim to improve the water's taste, pH, and nutritional value by reintroducing essential minerals.

Remineralisation is especially beneficial if you're primarily drinking distilled or reverse osmosis (RO) water, as these processes remove most, if not all, naturally occurring minerals. While purified water is excellent for removing contaminants, it can lack the minerals our bodies need. Adding minerals back not only improves the taste but also contributes to better hydration and overall health. The absence of minerals in water can, over time, potentially leach minerals from the body, making remineralisation a proactive health choice. Different methods offer varying levels of mineralisation and involve different techniques. Using mineral stones or natural salts is simple and convenient, involving merely adding the chosen material to your water container. A DIY mineral filter, while more involved to set up, can provide a more continuous and comprehensive remineralisation process. Regardless of the method chosen, it is crucial to source your materials from reputable suppliers to ensure purity and safety, avoiding contaminants that could negate the benefits of remineralisation.

Can remineralising water improve its taste?

Yes, remineralising water can significantly improve its taste, especially if the water has been stripped of its natural minerals through processes like distillation or reverse osmosis. The added minerals contribute to a more palatable and refreshing flavor profile, moving away from the often bland or even slightly bitter taste of purely purified water.

Water lacking minerals can taste "flat" because our taste buds are accustomed to detecting the presence of minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These minerals not only contribute to taste but also affect the water's pH and alkalinity, further influencing the overall drinking experience. Remineralising water restores the balance, making it more appealing to drink. The specific mineral composition and concentration influence the resulting taste. For example, water with a higher concentration of calcium might taste slightly sweet, while a higher magnesium content can impart a slightly bitter note. Ultimately, finding the right balance of minerals is key to achieving a taste that is perceived as pleasant and refreshing. This is why many bottled water companies carefully control the mineral content of their products.

Are there any risks associated with remineralising water incorrectly?

Yes, incorrectly remineralising water can pose several health risks, primarily related to consuming excessive or insufficient amounts of certain minerals, or introducing harmful contaminants. Careful attention to mineral type, concentration, and water purity is essential to avoid negative consequences.

Incorrect remineralisation can lead to mineral imbalances. Over-mineralisation, particularly with elements like calcium or magnesium, could result in hypercalcemia or hypermagnesemia, conditions that can cause nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness, and in severe cases, cardiac issues. Conversely, insufficient remineralisation might not provide the intended health benefits and could leave the water tasting flat or undesirable, discouraging proper hydration. Furthermore, the source and purity of the remineralisation additives are crucial. Using low-quality mineral supplements can introduce harmful contaminants, such as heavy metals or bacteria, into the water. Always opt for food-grade or NSF-certified mineral supplements from reputable suppliers to ensure safety and purity. A thorough understanding of the specific minerals being added and their recommended dosages is also critical to avoid accidental overdosing or introducing substances that could react negatively with other elements in the water. Using incorrect ratios or additives can change the pH of the water also making it dangerous for consumption.

How long does remineralised water stay good for consumption?

Remineralised water, if stored properly, typically stays good for consumption for 1-3 days. This is comparable to purified or distilled water that hasn't been remineralised. The primary factors affecting its shelf life are the cleanliness of the container used and the presence of any organic matter that could promote bacterial growth.

While the added minerals themselves won't "expire," they can create a more hospitable environment for bacteria if the water isn't handled and stored correctly. The minerals act as nutrients that can fuel bacterial proliferation. Therefore, it’s crucial to use a clean, preferably sterilized, container to store remineralised water. Glass or food-grade, BPA-free plastic containers are recommended. To maximize the shelf life of your remineralised water, keep it refrigerated. Lower temperatures significantly slow down bacterial growth. Avoid leaving it at room temperature for extended periods, especially in warmer environments. If you notice any changes in taste, smell, or appearance (e.g., cloudiness), discard the water immediately, as it's likely contaminated.

So, there you have it! Remineralising your water is a simple way to potentially boost your health and enjoy tastier hydration. Give these methods a try and see what works best for you. Thanks for reading, and we hope you'll come back soon for more helpful tips and tricks!