There’s a lot of debate about distilled water vs. alkaline water, with many people wondering which one is healthier. Some claim that alkaline water can balance pH levels and improve hydration, while others argue that distilled water is the purest option for the body.
At Eat for Life, we focus on evidence-based nutrition and helping people make informed choices about their health. If you’re unsure which type of water to drink, this guide breaks down the facts to help you decide.
What Is Distilled Water?
Distilled water is the purest form of water. It is created through distillation, a process that involves boiling water, capturing the steam, and condensing it back into liquid form. This removes:
- Heavy metals (lead, mercury, arsenic)
- Chlorine and fluoride
- Bacteria and viruses
- Pesticides and chemicals
- Inorganic minerals that the body doesn’t use efficiently
Because distilled water is free from contaminants, it gives your body clean hydration without the toxins commonly found in tap and bottled water. If you want a reliable way to produce distilled water at home, Waterwise Filters offer an excellent solution. Their advanced water distillation systems remove impurities while preserving the natural purity your body needs.
What Is Alkaline Water?
Alkaline water has a higher pH level (typically above 7.5) and often contains added minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Some believe that alkaline water:
- Neutralizes acid in the body
- Improves hydration
- Boosts energy levels
However, there is little scientific evidence to support these claims. While alkaline water may help with temporary acid reflux relief, it does not significantly change blood pH levels, as the body naturally regulates its own pH balance.
Why Distilled Water Is the Better Choice
Many people assume that because alkaline water contains minerals, it must be better for health. However, distilled water is actually the superior option for long-term wellness. Here’s why:
1. Distilled Water Removes Harmful Contaminants
Tap water and even bottled alkaline water can contain heavy metals, bacteria, and chemicals. Distillation eliminates these toxins, giving you the cleanest water possible.
2. Your Body Gets Minerals from Food—Not Water
Some people worry that distilled water lacks minerals, but the truth is that your body absorbs essential minerals like calcium and magnesium from food, not water. Vegetables, nuts, and seeds provide far more bioavailable nutrients than what’s found in alkaline water.
3. Distilled Water Supports Detoxification
Because distilled water is pure, it helps the body flush out waste more efficiently. Without excess minerals or chemicals, distilled water improves kidney function and supports natural detox processes.
4. Alkaline Water May Contain Artificial Additives
Many brands of alkaline water are artificially created by adding electrolytes, bicarbonates, or synthetic minerals. Some even contain fluoride and chlorine, which can disrupt gut health and hormone balance.
5. Your Body Regulates Its Own pH Naturally
A common myth about alkaline water is that it helps neutralize acid in the body. However, your kidneys and lungs already maintain the proper pH balance—meaning drinking alkaline water has little impact. Distilled water, on the other hand, provides clean hydration without interfering with natural processes.
Who Benefits Most from Distilled Water?
Drinking distilled water is especially helpful for those with:
- Kidney problems (stones, chronic infections)
- Heavy metal toxicity (lead, mercury exposure)
- Autoimmune conditions (inflammation, joint pain)
By removing impurities, distilled water helps reduce toxin buildup and supports overall hydration without extra additives. To ensure you always have access to high-quality distilled water, consider using Waterwise Filters. Their home distillation systems make it easy to get pure drinking water without relying on expensive bottled options.
The Best Way to Stay Hydrated
If you want the cleanest water possible, distilled water is the best choice. While alkaline water is heavily marketed, there’s no strong scientific backing for its benefits. Instead, focus on:
- Drinking distilled water for pure hydration
- Eating a nutrient-dense diet to get essential minerals
- Avoiding chemical-laden bottled waters
At Eat for Life, we emphasize holistic health, including proper hydration, gut health, and nutrient absorption. Whether you’re in Moore County, Southern Pines, or anywhere in the U.S., we offer telehealth consultations to help you optimize your wellness.
Want to Improve Your Health Naturally?
Book a consultation today to learn more about functional nutrition and the best choices for your body.
