Is It Advisable to Drink 600 TDS Water?
Is It Advisable to Drink 600 TDS Water?
In recent years, there has been significant debate surrounding water with Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) levels as high as 600 ppm. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), water with a TDS level of 600 mg/L or higher is not safe for drinking. This article will explore the potential health risks associated with consuming such high TDS water and suggest safe alternatives.
Understanding TDS in Water
Before delving into the specifics, it's essential to understand what TDS means. Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in water refers to the minerals, salts, and other substances that are dissolved in the water. TDS levels are measured in parts per million (ppm) or milligrams per liter (mg/L).
WHO Guidelines on TDS Levels
The WHO has established guidelines for TDS levels in drinking water. According to their standards:
TDS levels less than 300 mg/L are considered excellent. Between 300 and 600 mg/L, the water is considered good. Between 600 and 900 mg/L, the water is considered fair. Between 900 and 1200 mg/L, the water is considered poor. Water with a TDS level higher than 1200 mg/L is considered unacceptable for drinking.Indian Drinking Water Standards
In India, the government has set stringent guidelines for TDS levels in drinking water. According to the Indian Standard for Drinking Water SpecIFICATIONS:
The maximum acceptable TDS level is 500 mg/L. A TDS level between 300 and 500 mg/L is acceptable but may need further treatment.Comparatively, the WHO recommends a TDS level of less than 300 mg/L for drinking water.
Health Risks of Consuming High TDS Water
Drinking water with a TDS level of 600 mg/L or higher can pose several health risks. High TDS water contains a significant amount of dissolved minerals and salts, which can be harmful when consumed in large quantities. Some of the potential health risks include:
Calcification: Excessive calcium and magnesium in the water can lead to calcification of the kidneys and other organs. Regulatory Imbalance: Imbalance in the body's internal regulation due to high mineral content. Fluorosis: Excessive fluoride can lead to dental and skeletal fluorosis, causing tooth discoloration and bone damage. Gastrointestinal Issues: High TDS water can irritate the digestive system, leading to stomach cramps, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues.Safe TDS Levels for Drinking Water
Based on the guidelines from both the WHO and Indian standards, the recommended TDS level for safe drinking water is:
Optimal: 150–250 mg/L Acceptable: Up to 300 mg/L Exceedingly Harmful: Above 600 mg/LDrinking water within the 150–250 mg/L range is considered safe for daily consumption. This range provides a balance of essential minerals while minimizing the risk of harmful imbalances.
Conclusion
In conclusion, drinking water with a TDS level of 600 mg/L is not advisable due to the potential health risks associated with it. Opting for water with a TDS level of 150–250 mg/L is the safer and more health-conscious choice. Always ensure that the water you consume meets the recommended safety standards to maintain good health.