The downside of RO systems

Reverse osmosis (RO) systems have become increasingly popular in recent years as a means of purifying drinking water. These systems work by passing water through a semi-permeable membrane, which removes impurities like bacteria, viruses, and chemicals.

The RO process involves forcing water through a membrane that has tiny pores that allow water molecules to pass through while blocking larger particles like minerals and impurities. This results in water that is free of many contaminants and has a neutral pH level. However, the downside is that the water is also stripped of many of the minerals that are naturally present in drinking water, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

While some people may prefer the taste of demineralized water, the long-term health effects of consuming water that lacks these minerals can be negative. Calcium and magnesium, in particular, are important for maintaining healthy bones, teeth, and muscles, and they also play a role in heart health and other bodily functions. Low mineral intake has been linked to a range of health issues, including osteoporosis, heart disease, and muscle weakness.

Therefore, it is recommended that individuals who use RO systems add back some of the minerals that are removed during the purification process. One way to do this is through the use of remineralization cartridges, which are often sold as an add-on to RO systems. These cartridges contain minerals like calcium and magnesium that can be added back into the water as it flows through the system. Another way to add minerals to RO water is by drinking mineral-rich foods or supplements. Foods like leafy greens, nuts, and seeds are good sources of minerals, and there are also mineral supplements available that can be added to water or taken separately.

In summary, while RO systems are effective at removing impurities from drinking water, they also remove important minerals that are necessary for good health. It is recommended that individuals who use RO systems take steps to add back some of these minerals to their water, either through the use of remineralization cartridges or through dietary supplements. By doing so, they can enjoy the benefits of clean, purified water while still ensuring that they are maintaining their overall health and wellbeing.

Of course this analysis only applies if the water is meant to be drinked, if not for exemple RO systems can be useful for washing for exemple because it will reduce the hard water levels.