clear drinking glass on gray surface by KOBU Agency courtesy of Unsplash.

What Is Reverse Osmosis Water and Why Should You Consider Drinking It?

Melissa Martin, Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, Certified Pilates Instructor |

In the quest for cleaner, purer water, reverse osmosis (RO) technology has emerged as a leading solution in water purification efforts globally. This sophisticated process not only improves the quality of drinking water but also offers a myriad of health and practical benefits. Understanding what reverse osmosis water is and why it's beneficial can help individuals make informed decisions about their drinking water. 

Understanding Reverse Osmosis Water

Reverse osmosis is a filtration process that removes contaminants from water by pushing it through a semi-permeable membrane. The pores of this membrane are so small that they can filter out virtually all particles larger than water molecules, including salts, bacteria, viruses, pesticides, and organic and inorganic compounds. The result is water that is significantly purer and cleaner.

The Benefits of Drinking Reverse Osmosis Water 

  1. Removal of Contaminants: The primary advantage of RO water is its ability to remove up to 99% of the thousands of potentially harmful contaminants that may be present in tap or well water. This includes lead, fluoride, chlorine, and arsenic, among others, which can have significant health impacts over time. 
  2. Improved Taste and Odor: The removal of contaminants and dissolved solids not only purifies the water but also enhances its taste and smell. Many users of RO systems report a marked improvement in the flavor of the water, making it more appealing to drink. 
  3. Cost-Effective: Investing in a reverse osmosis system can be more economical in the long run compared to buying bottled water. Despite the initial setup cost, the per gallon cost of RO water is significantly lower, making it a sustainable choice for high-quality drinking water. 
  4. Environmental Benefits: By reducing the dependency on bottled water, RO systems help cut down on plastic waste and the environmental footprint associated with the transportation of bottled water. This makes RO water a more eco-friendly option for conscious consumers. 
  5. Health Benefits: Clean, contaminant-free water is essential for maintaining overall health. Drinking RO water can help reduce the risk of consuming harmful chemicals and minerals. Moreover, by encouraging the consumption of water with a pleasant taste, it can promote better hydration habits. 
  6. Versatility: RO systems can be installed under the sink or at the point of entry in a home, making them a versatile solution for improving water quality. Whether for drinking, cooking, or even aquarium use, RO water meets the need for pure water.

Final Thoughts 

While reverse osmosis offers a high level of water purification, it's important to note that the process also removes some beneficial minerals from the water. However, the health risks of consuming contaminants far outweigh the potential downsides of losing these minerals, which can be easily supplemented if needed. For those concerned about mineral loss, some RO systems re-introduce essential minerals back into the water post-filtration. Choosing to drink reverse osmosis water is a step towards ensuring that the water you and your family consume is as clean and healthy as possible. Given its benefits, it's no wonder that more and more households and businesses are turning to RO technology to meet their water quality needs.