Desalination and Reverse Osmosis are some of the commonly adopted treatment techniques for provision of clean drinking water in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Desalination process removes or separates dissolved minerals (primarily salts) from seawater, brackish groundwater or treated wastewater to provide clean drinking water. Reverse Osmosis (RO) is a water treatment process in which water is forced through an extremely fine semi-permeable membrane to remove contaminants and other impurities from water. Reverse Osmosis systems are effective in removing bacteria (E. coli, Samonella), protozoa (Guardia, Cryptosporidium), common chemical inorganic contaminants such as sodium, chloride, lead, fluoride, etc. Although both these processes are highly effective in removing contaminants to provide clean drinking water, some of the essential minerals such as Calcium and Magnesium can also get eliminated in the process. Another disadvantage of desalination plants is the reduction of pH resulting in aggressive and corrosive water that can damage the distribution system pipe materials. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), the presence of Calcium and Magnesium in drinking water and their potential contribution and benefits to human health are very relevant. Remineralization filter cartridges to treat water from desalinated plants or under-sink reverse osmosis systems has gained tremendous popularity providing remedial solution to issues caused by these processes. This article discusses the benefits of remineralization, particularly Magnesium and the different methods of remineralization available in the market today.
SIGNIFICANCE OF MAGNESIUM – HEALTH BENEFITS
As mentioned earlier, regions that practice desalination treatment such as the UAE have relatively low levels of magnesium. Many recent studies have confirmed that magnesium plays a vital role in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Adequate magnesium is essential in the prevention of Atherogenesis and inappropriate clotting, in maintaining vascular tone, electrolyte balance and a host of other cellular, biochemical and physiological processes crucial to cardio-vascular function and health. Moderate to high levels of magnesium i.e. between 25 and 100 ppm or at a minimum of 10 ppm could potentially prevent approximately 4.5 million deaths per year caused by heart diseases and stroke worldwide. Adequate intake of magnesium is also associated with a significantly lower risk of diabetes, possibly because of the important role of magnesium in glucose metabolism. Food with sufficient amount of magnesium can also provide enhanced bone strength. However, further research is needed to demonstrate the role of magnesium in treating osteoporosis. Magnesium deficiency is related to factors that promote headaches, including neurotransmitter release and vasoconstriction. Studies found direct correlation between lower levels of magnesium and increased number of migraine headaches amongst humans.
DIFFERENT METHODS OF FILTER REMINERALIZATION
Remineralization is the process of adding essential minerals such as Calcium and Magnesium into the desalinated or RO (Reverse Osmosis) treated water. There are several methods to add Magnesium into the treated water. Some of these methods are described below:
- Alkaline Filter Water Pitcher
- Mineral Rich Salt Addition
- Electrolyte Blends/Trace Mineral Drops
Saniwater is committed to provide enhanced quality drinking water to its customers. The team at Saniwater along with the help of water experts and scientists is dedicated in finding solutions pertaining to drinking water issues.
