Boiling water itself isn't directly "healthy" in the sense of providing nutrients, but it's a highly effective method for making water safer to drink.
Why Boiling Water Matters
Boiling water primarily serves to eliminate harmful microorganisms. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality (GDWQ), heating water to a rolling boil effectively inactivates:
- Pathogenic bacteria: These can cause illnesses such as diarrhea and cholera.
- Viruses: Many waterborne viruses, like norovirus and rotavirus, can lead to gastrointestinal issues.
- Protozoa: Parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium can cause severe stomach problems.
The WHO guidelines are based on robust scientific evidence showing that boiling is a reliable method for water treatment.
How Boiling Improves Water Safety
The process of boiling water works by using heat to disrupt the cellular structure of these microorganisms, essentially killing them and rendering them harmless. This is particularly important in areas where access to treated, safe water is limited.
Practical Considerations
While boiling water is highly effective for disinfection, consider the following:
- Time: Ensure the water reaches a rolling boil (vigorous bubbling) and is kept at that state for at least one minute, as per WHO recommendations.
- Altitude: At higher altitudes, the boiling point of water is lower. You might need to boil the water for a longer time.
- Impurities: Boiling will not remove other contaminants like heavy metals or chemicals. It only targets biological pathogens.
- Taste: Boiling may alter the taste of water slightly.
Example: Water Treatment Process
Here's an example of how boiling can be part of a water purification plan:
- Collect: Obtain water from a questionable source.
- Filter: If possible, filter the water through a clean cloth to remove larger particles.
- Boil: Bring the filtered water to a rolling boil for at least one minute.
- Cool: Allow the water to cool before consuming.
Conclusion
Boiling water is not about adding health benefits but is crucial for making water safe for consumption by eliminating harmful microorganisms, as supported by the WHO guidelines. It's a vital step in preventing waterborne diseases.
