Is 25 TDS Safe for Drinking Water?
The quality of the water we drink is crucial for our health. One of the most important factors determining water quality is its TDS (Total Dissolved Solids). TDS refers to the total amount of dissolved substances in water, including minerals, salts, and other organic and inorganic compounds. While a small amount of these solids is necessary for good health, too much can lead to water that’s unsafe to drink. So, what about water with a TDS of 25? Is it safe to drink?
Understanding TDS Levels
TDS levels in water are measured in milligrams per liter (mg/L) or parts per million (ppm). Based on TDS, water can generally be classified as follows:
Excellent (below 50 ppm): Extremely low TDS, almost pure water. Lacks significant amounts of minerals.
Good (50–150 ppm): Contains a small number of beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium.
Fair (150–300 ppm): Still considered safe but starting to contain more minerals.
Poor (300–500 ppm): May not taste good and could contain unwanted impurities.
Unacceptable (above 500 ppm): High TDS water could contain harmful contaminants and is often unsuitable for drinking.
What Does 25 TDS Mean?
Water with a TDS of 25 ppm is considered very low in dissolved solids, almost akin to distilled water. This means it’s very pure, and while it may sound ideal, water with such low TDS might lack the essential minerals that your body needs.
Minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium are naturally found in water and are beneficial for human health. Drinking water with extremely low TDS levels may not provide these necessary minerals. However, for short-term consumption, water with 25 TDS is perfectly safe. The water is free of harmful contaminants like heavy metals, bacteria, or chemicals, but its lack of minerals may not make it ideal for long-term use.
Is It Safe for Daily Consumption?
Water with a TDS of 25 ppm is safe to drink, but it may not be optimal for long-term health. De-mineralized water, like this, can lead to a gradual depletion of essential electrolytes in the body if consumed regularly. Minerals in water contribute to better hydration, digestion, and overall well-being, so some experts recommend drinking water with slightly higher TDS levels (between 50–150 ppm).
Pros of Low TDS Water
1. Purity: With such low TDS, the water is incredibly pure and free from harmful contaminants.
2. No harmful substances: It’s likely free of pollutants like pesticides, industrial waste, or excess fluoride, making it safer in that regard.
Cons of Low TDS Water
1. Lack of essential minerals: It may not provide adequate amounts of beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium, which are vital for bone health, heart function, and overall bodily functions.
2. Taste: Water with a very low TDS can sometimes taste flat or bland because it lacks the natural minerals that usually give water its flavor.
Conclusion: Is 25 TDS Safe?
Yes, 25 TDS water is safe for drinking, but it might not be ideal for long-term health due to the lack of essential minerals. If you’re using a reverse osmosis (RO) filter or any other purification system that removes most of the dissolved solids, it might be a good idea to ensure that you’re getting minerals from other dietary sources, or you can consider a remineralizer to add them back into your drinking water.
For optimal health, it’s recommended to consume water with a slightly higher TDS level (50–150 ppm), where you get a balance of purity and necessary nutrients. But in terms of safety, water with 25 TDS is perfectly fine to drink, especially if you’re ensuring adequate mineral intake from other sources.