When it comes to the water that flows from our taps, it’s a fairly common assumption that it is entirely safe to drink. However, a growing body of evidence finds that tap water can contain an alarming range of harmful chemicals, contaminants, and even human hormones. Continued ingestion of these substances can result in a variety of negative health outcomes, such as reproductive issues, thyroid disease, immune system damage, and some cancers.
With the prevalence of these potential toxins in tap water representing a very real and present concern, it’s essential to understand the importance of water safety and make the necessary choices to best protect ourselves and our families. Here, we’ll explore some of the common toxins found in tap water, the importance of tap water safety and the issues that hard water creates, as well as the benefits of filtering your water and switching to healthy water brands.
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Common Toxins Found in Tap Water
The disquieting reality is that while we are extremely fortunate to have the luxury of running tap water that causes no immediate danger to our health, there are still justifiable concerns regarding its overall safety. Tap water can contain a variety of harmful chemicals and contaminants, including lead, arsenic, and forever chemicals (PFAS).
Forever chemicals are a group of chemicals known as per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances and are commonly found in products such as nonstick cookware, food packaging, and firefighting foam. Forever chemicals are linked to a range of health problems, including cancer. A recent study found that PFA’s were present in a staggering 100% of tap water samples collected from the US water systems that currently serve over 200 million people.
Human Hormones in Tap Water
In addition to the chemicals that have no business being in our drinking water, there can also be the presence of human hormones, resulting in a range of alarming health concerns. A study conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found that human hormones were present in tap water samples from around the US. Exposure to these hormones through our drinking water can disrupt our body’s endocrine system (responsible for natural hormone regulation) and has been linked to a range of medical issues, including reproductive problems and cancer.
Tap Water Safety
To ensure the safety of your tap water, it’s essential to know where your water comes from and what contaminants may be present. The Environmental Protection Agency sets strict standards for drinking water quality throughout America and requires public water systems to regularly test their water for contaminants. That said, there are still concerns about the safety of tap water, particularly in areas dealing with outdated infrastructure or high levels of pollution.
One of the easiest and most eco-friendly ways to ensure the safety of your tap water is to invest in a home water filtration system. Water filtration systems can remove a range of contaminants, including chemicals, bacteria, and viruses. Filtered water tends to have an improved taste and odor, too, making it considerably more pleasant to drink.
Benefits of Filtering Your Tap Water
Filtering your tap water comes with a range of benefits beyond improving its safety. Filtered water is typically better tasting and can be a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to bottled water. By using a water filtration system, you can reduce your reliance on single-use plastic bottles and help to protect the environment while still ensuring that the water you drink is clean and safe.
Issues With Hard Water
Another issue that can affect the quality of your tap water is hard water, which is water that contains high levels of minerals, particularly calcium, and magnesium. While hard water is generally safe to drink, it can still cause a range of less serious issues, such as dry skin and hair, and can also lead to mineral buildup in pipes and appliances.
Switching to Sustainably Packaged Water
While tap water can be safe and certainly cost-effective, some people prefer the convenience and taste of bottled water. If you’re looking for a more sustainable option than single-use plastic bottles, there is a range of healthy water brands that make using reusable and recyclable packaging just as important as the quality of their water. These brands often use sustainable practices in their production and sourcing, making them a more environmentally friendly option.
Final Thoughts
Understanding water safety can be an essential component to ensuring the health and well-being of yourself and your family. By being aware of the potential toxins and contaminants in tap water and investing in a filtration system or switching to an eco-friendly water brand, you can enjoy clean, healthy drinking water with peace of mind.
By understanding the importance of water safety and taking proactive steps to protect yourself and the environment, you can make a positive impact on your health and the planet.
