Low TDS Water Side Effects

Ever wondered if the water you're drinking is “too pure” to be healthy?

While we often focus on filtering out contaminants, low TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) in drinking water can raise serious health concerns. In this blog, we’ll explore the side effects of low TDS water, what TDS really means, the safe TDS level for drinking, and how to check whether your water is truly helping or harming your health.

1. What Is TDS in Drinking Water?

TDS stands for Total Dissolved Solids, which refers to the combined content of all inorganic and organic substances dissolved in water. This includes essential minerals like:

• Calcium

• Magnesium

• Sodium

• Potassium

• Chlorides

• Sulfates

• Bicarbonates

These minerals are important for your hydration, electrolyte balance, and overall health. TDS is usually measured in mg/L or parts per million (ppm).

2. Understanding Low TDS Water

What Is Considered "Low TDS"?

Generally, TDS levels below 50 ppm are considered extremely low. Water with TDS under 150 ppm can lack vital minerals and may not be suitable for long-term consumption.

Why Does RO Water Often Have Low TDS?

Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems are designed to remove contaminants, but in the process, they also eliminate essential minerals, reducing the TDS level significantly. While RO is effective for purification, TDS in RO water often drops below healthy levels.

3. Safe TDS for Drinking Water: What Do Experts Say?

WHO Guidelines

The World Health Organization (WHO) has not defined a strict minimum TDS level but suggests water with TDS below 300 ppm is generally acceptable for drinking. However, TDS below 100 ppm is considered too low and may lack essential minerals.

Indian BIS Standards

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) recommends a maximum TDS level of 500 ppm for drinking water. However, it does not specify a minimum. The key is balanced mineral content, not just purity.

4. Low TDS Water Side Effects

Now, let’s answer the core question: What happens if your drinking water has low TDS?

a) Mineral Deficiency

Low TDS water often lacks calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are necessary for:

• Bone health

• Muscle function

• Cardiovascular stability

Over time, drinking demineralized water can contribute to micronutrient deficiencies, especially if your diet doesn’t compensate for it.

b) Electrolyte Imbalance

Low TDS water disrupts the body’s electrolyte balance, affecting:

• Nerve signals

• Heart rhythm

• Energy levels

This is especially risky for children, elderly people, and those with medical conditions.

c) Taste Issues and Loss of Appetite

Water with extremely low TDS tastes flat or even bitter. This can discourage people from drinking enough water, leading to dehydration. It may also affect the taste of food and beverages prepared with it.

d) Possible Health Risks Over Time

Some studies suggest prolonged consumption of low TDS water may lead to:

• Increased diuresis (more urination)

• Higher risk of cardiovascular diseases

• Digestive issues like acid reflux and stomach cramps

• Increased leaching of minerals from the body

Important: These effects are usually seen when low TDS water (<50 ppm) is consumed regularly for months or years.

5. Minimum TDS for Health: How Low Is Too Low?

Recommended TDS Range

Most health experts recommend drinking water with TDS between 150–300 ppm. This range retains essential minerals while staying free of contaminants.

Role of Essential Minerals

TDS is not just about "solids"—it's about minerals your body needs, such as:

• Calcium: for bones, teeth, and muscle function

• Magnesium: supports heart and nerve health

• Sodium: regulates hydration and nerve function

• Potassium: supports cardiovascular and kidney health

Also Read - What is the Minimum TDS for Drinking Water? A Complete Guide

6. TDS in RO Water: Is RO Always the Best?

RO systems are popular, but not always necessary—especially if your water source is already safe.

Pros of RO:

• Removes heavy metals, pesticides, bacteria

• Effective for high TDS sources (>500 ppm)

• Improves safety in urban or industrial areas

Cons of RO:

• Can reduce TDS to unsafe levels (<50 ppm)

• Wastes 2–3 liters of water for every 1 liter purified

• May require TDS controller to re-mineralize water

Should You Use a TDS Controller?

Yes, if your RO system reduces TDS below 100 ppm, install a TDS controller or mineral cartridge to maintain balance.

7. How to Check and Maintain Ideal TDS in Your Home Water

a) Use a Digital TDS Meter

A digital TDS meter is an affordable device (₹300–₹1000) that can give you an instant reading.

• Ideal Range: 150–300 ppm

• Avoid drinking water below 100 ppm

b) Maintain RO System with Remineralization

• Install a TDS controller

• Use a post-carbon filter with mineral addition

• Periodically check water quality (every 2–3 months)

c) Adjust RO Settings

Most modern RO systems allow you to adjust the output TDS. Consult a technician to set it between 150–300 ppm depending on your local source water.

8. Conclusion: Should You Drink Low TDS Water Daily?

The answer is: No, not for long periods.

While low TDS water may appear cleaner, it can lack essential minerals and harm your health over time. If your RO water has TDS below 100 ppm, it’s best to re-mineralize it or switch to a balanced filtration system that maintains healthy TDS.

Also Read - Is 25 TDS Safe for Drinking Water?

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the minimum TDS for health?

Answer: Ideally, the TDS should be above 150 ppm to ensure adequate minerals like calcium and magnesium are present for daily health needs.

Q2. Can low TDS water cause mineral deficiency?

Answer: Yes. Water with very low TDS lacks essential minerals and, over time, can lead to deficiencies in calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

Q3. Is low TDS water good for babies or pregnant women?

Answer: No. Infants, pregnant women, and elderly individuals need mineral-rich water for growth and health. TDS below 100 ppm is not recommended.

Q4. Should I avoid RO water altogether?

Answer: Not necessarily. RO is essential in areas with high TDS (>500 ppm). Just ensure your system has a TDS controller to maintain healthy levels.

Q5. How can I increase the TDS in my drinking water?

Answer: Use a remineralization cartridge, TDS controller, or add mineral drops to your purified water.

✅ Final Tip:

Check your water’s TDS today using a TDS meter. If it’s below 100 ppm, consider upgrading your RO system or adding remineralizers for safe and healthy hydration.