“Softened water is generally considered safe to drink for most people. The process of water softening primarily involves removing minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can contribute to hard water. While this can improve the taste and feel of the water, there are some considerations to keep in mind.

One concern with softened water is its higher sodium content. During the softening process, sodium ions are often exchanged for the calcium and magnesium ions. This means that individuals on sodium-restricted diets, such as those with high blood pressure or certain medical conditions, may want to limit their intake of softened water. However, Softened water is completely safe to drink for most people and does not contain unhealthy levels of sodium. The average amount of sodium found in a 250ml glass of softened water contributes to 1% of your daily sodium intake (Recommended daily intake by the NHS 2015 is 2,400mg of sodium).

Additionally, some studies suggest that drinking water with elevated sodium levels may not be ideal for infants, as their kidneys are still developing and may not efficiently process the extra sodium.

Despite these considerations, many health authorities, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), have stated that softened water is safe for consumption for the general population. If you have specific health concerns or dietary restrictions, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional.

In summary, softened water is generally safe to drink, but individuals with sodium sensitivities or specific health conditions may want to consider other options or limit their intake.”