Is distilled water meant for drinking and does it have a longer shelf life than your 'run of the mill' bottled water?

sequoianoir

Basically not really. When I've tasted it I always thought it tasted rather odd. In theory it should be pure (of at least all chemicals, minerals etc.) but I'm not sure about the hygiene levels during its production and bottling. After all, the only 2 uses I've ever used it for is topping up car batteries and in the early steam irons that recommended not to use tap water. The starting level of bacteria is rather unknown and having said this it is likely to 'go off' without a chlorine content or possibly some sort of preservative. Dec 21 02, 1:06 AM

Friar Tuck

Spring/bottled water - Many people drink bottled water. Make sure that the level of dry solids are not too high and try to avoid water with a higher than average sodium content. Distilled water - Whilst this is safe to drunk it should not be drunk continuously over a long period of time. Distilled water is empty water and it will help to draw out the toxins from the body. However prolonged usage will leach vital minerals and vitamins from the body. Anyone drinking distilled water for a prolonged period of more than a few days should very definitely take mineral and vitamin supplements but we do not recommend drinking this permanently. Fizzy water - Many people enjoy fizzy water but studies show that prolonged drinking of fizzy water and soft drinks can create problems for the body. Basically, fizzy drinks contain carbon dioxide in the bubbles. The body needs and requires oxygen and most carbon dioxide in the body is considered a waste product to be eliminated. Why add to the body's troubles by drinking carbon dioxide which the body regards as a poison? Filtered Water - Check whether tap water in your area is safe to drink. If it is safe we suggest you also filter the water before drinking. This will help to eliminate some of the toxins found in most water supplies. http://www.organicnutrition.co.uk/water.htm Dec 21 02, 1:13 AM

Gnomon

Bottled still mineral water is produced by a very careful process and should be certified biologically pure which means that there are no bacteria living in it. Fizzy water is better because the dissolved carbon dioxide makes the water slightly acidic, which will prevent bacteria from living in it, but fizzy water is not as good for you. If it is for emergencies, keep fizzy water. For general health buy still mineral water, or use a water filter and tap water. Dec 21 02, 9:34 PM