Water is crucial for our survival. It’s a significant portion of our body weight, over 50%. Without sufficient water the body’s functioning starts degenerating significantly. The cells dehydrate, the electrolytes become imbalanced, joints get creaky and don’t work as smoothly, blood pressure can go up or down, and your body temperature doesn’t regulate properly.
The above are things that happen when you don’t have sufficient water. What about water quality? It’s crucial as well. Seeing that over 50% of the body is composed of water you can understand why.
What’s in your water?
Do you know what’s in your water? You can go to your local water department’s website and get the latest report but what does it all mean? They list chemicals as parts per million (ppm) but are those levels really safe? Environmental Working Group (EWG) has a guide to help you decipher the water guide. In fact, they link to your water department and give an analysis of the water in your neighborhood.
I did a search for San Mateo and based on EWG’s guidelines there are 19 total contaminants with 8 exceeding their health guidelines. Check out the website here and learn about the contaminants.
I also want to bring up fluoride, which can be a controversial topic. I’m not a fan of it being added to our water systems because the studies show that added fluoride actually destroys the teeth, interferes with thyroid function because it is an endocrine disruptor, and is a neurotoxin. To learn more about the history of fluoride and the effects watch this short documentary. I think you will be convinced about the toxicity.
What you can do now
I suggest you get a water filter if you don’t have one already. This is the most effective way to get clean drinking water in your home. I personally use the Pure Effects water filter which does filter out fluoride in addition to many chemicals, bacteria, medications, heavy metals, and more. When I first got my filter hooked up and tasted the water I thought it was the best water ever. This is the water I bring to the office.
When purchasing a water filter check what it actually filters and determine if that is sufficient for your needs. You also want to have the good minerals stay in and the harmful substances be removed. The other thing to consider is the price. Look at what you can get for your budget. EWG has a guide to help you.
Bottled water
Bottled water can be ok but a study from 2018 showed that 93% of bottled water brands contain microplastics. Also, some bottled waters are just tap water with a label on it so may still have harmful chemicals, medications, or bacteria. Purchasing bottled water in glass can help. Look at the manufacturer’s website to see what’s in their water.
I hope this has been informative and inspires you to ensure you have clean, healthy water. It can make a healthy difference in your life!
