What Are the Dangers of Children Drinking Distilled Water?

Loss of Electrolytes and Mineral Deficiency

• Because distilled water is free of all dissolved minerals, children who consume it on a regular basis are at risk for the loss of electrolytes. Tap water generally contains essential minerals that all human bodies need, such as sodium, chloride and potassium. When children consume distilled water that has eliminated necessary electrolytes, medical conditions such as high blood pressure and irregular heart rates can develop. Risks of mineral deficiencies of necessary elements such as calcium and magnesium are also associated with drinking distilled water. According to the World Health Organization, increased risks of fractures in children are associated with water that is low in calcium and magnesium when compared to hard water and water with high levels of these minerals.

Increased Absorption of Carbon Dioxide

• When distilled water is exposed to air, it actively absorbs the carbon dioxide and becomes acidic, so children who regularly drink distilled water have bodies that are more acidic. Their cells, organs and tissues react to the acidity by performing tasks to buffer the acid level, such as removing essential minerals from the skeletal system and increasing bicarbonate levels in the blood. Long-term high acidity levels in the body can cause an increased risk for cardiovascular disease.

Toxic Metal Absorption

• Because distilled water is free of minerals, it often absorbs a high amount of metals from various sources, including pipes, storage tanks, coatings and containers. Toxic metals present in distilled drinking water can lead to harmful effects in children's bodies such as lead poisoning. Water that contains calcium and magnesium has anti-toxic components that prevent the absorption of some toxic metals.

Considerations

• The ideal type of drinking water for all individuals ̵2; especially children ̵2; is slightly alkaline water that contains essential minerals such as calcium and magnesium. Examples of suitable types include water filtered using reverse osmosis with essential supplemented minerals; water filtered using solid charcoal filters; and through ozonation. Distilled drinking water can be used on a periodic basis for special circumstances such as eliminating harmful contaminants in the body.