Reverse osmosis

Reverse osmosis (RO) is a filtration method that removes contaminants, such as microplastics and nanoplastics, from water. It involves pushing water through a series of filters to remove unwanted particles, though it also strips some beneficial minerals like magnesium and calcium, requiring remineralization afterward 1 2.

While effective, reverse osmosis systems can be expensive, ranging from $300 to $600 for a home unit. These systems can ultimately be cost-effective if used to replace bottled water, reducing plastic waste and the exposure to plastics 1. Reverse osmosis water is considered safe, but it is important to ensure adequate intake of minerals that might be removed during the filtration process 2.

Furthermore, although RO water is often considered smooth and some people perceive it as energizing, there's no conclusive evidence that it provides health benefits over other types of adequately filtered water 3.

If you're considering a reverse osmosis system, weigh the costs with the overall benefits, especially considering any potential need for remineralization 1.