Water Education - Water and Health

I filter my water... Am I healthier because of it?

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While there is a shortage of research into the benefits of successful home water filtration, due to most governmental funds being allocated to the research of the overall water quality of source waters, and treatment methods, there is still a large number of positive testimony from the users of home water filtration.

But first, it's best to take a quick look at the good reasons why people choose to have their home water filtered. Some consumers simply want filters to remove what makes the water smell or taste funny. Among the contaminants that do so and which filters can control are iron, particulates, and chlorine, according to NSF International, an independent, nonprofit group that evaluates filters and certifies that they meet standards for removing substances from water.

But increasingly consumers want filters to remove contaminants that can cause, or are suspected of causing health problems. Those contaminants can cause immediate, short-term health problems, such as the hard-shelled, single-cell parasites known as cysts that can cause severe abdominal cramping and diarrhea if ingested.

The best-known examples of cysts are giardia and cryptosporidium. Or they can cause health problems through long-term accumulation in the body. Those contaminants can be inorganic chemicals and metals like lead, arsenic, and mercury or synthetic organic chemicals such as pesticides. Some contaminants are suspected carcinogens; others may attack the nervous or digestive system, or affect fetal development. NSF International rates filters on how well they control 21 different contaminants (such as asbestos or cysts) with possible health effects.

So what are some benefits of ingesting higher quality water? Dr. Batmanghelidj, MD. says "It's true that one's drinking habits may be the cause and cure of headaches, lower back pain, stress and depressions, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and excessive weight. Drinking a regular diet of clean water over the course of a day can help make a positive difference in one's health"

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