No, water with 0 ppm (parts per million) of total dissolved solids (TDS) is not necessarily good for drinking. While pure water is H₂O, a lack of minerals can be detrimental to health.
Understanding TDS and its Importance
TDS measures the total amount of dissolved minerals and other substances in water. A reading of 0 ppm indicates virtually no dissolved minerals are present. While this might seem pure, the ideal TDS range for drinking water, as suggested by the World Health Organization (WHO), is actually between 100-300 ppm. [Source: Reddit r/water, Reddit r/HydroHomies, Quora].
This range provides essential minerals like magnesium and calcium, beneficial for our diet. Conversely, water with a very low TDS level can taste flat and may lack these necessary elements. [Source: Reddit r/water, various sources]. A level between 50 and 250 ppm can also be considered detrimental. [Source: Various Sources, 22-Nov-2022].
Why 0 ppm Water Might Be Problematic:
- Lack of essential minerals: Minerals like magnesium and calcium are crucial for various bodily functions. Water with 0 ppm lacks these minerals.
- Unpleasant taste: Many find water with very low TDS to have a flat, unpleasant taste.
- Potential health concerns: While more research is needed, prolonged consumption of water entirely devoid of minerals could potentially lead to mineral deficiencies over time.
Examples of Low TDS Readings:
Several sources discuss situations where low or 0 ppm readings were obtained:
- Reverse osmosis (RO) water filters often produce water with very low TDS levels. [Source: Homebrew Stackexchange, Reef2Reef]
- Well water can sometimes have a 0 ppm reading, indicating the need for mineral supplementation. [Source: Reddit r/WaterTreatment]
Conclusion
The ideal TDS level in drinking water is not 0 ppm. A range between 100-300 ppm is generally considered optimal as it provides essential minerals for good health and better taste. While a 0 ppm reading doesn't necessarily mean the water is unsafe, it's certainly not ideal for regular consumption.
