The health hazards of tap water: Try these water filter recommendations instead
Water is undeniably the elixir of life, vital for our well-being and survival. We rely on it for hydration, cooking, and personal hygiene. However, there's an often overlooked aspect of water that deserves our attention - the quality of tap water.
I grew up drinking tap water, just like most of you probably did too. I used to be of the mind-frame of, "Of course it's safe to drink! Why would the Government supply it to us if it wasn't?" But knowing what I know now about these regulatory bodies, there is much to be concerned about.
Have you ever thought about how they treat tap water to make it "drinkable" and what kind of chemicals are in it? Let's look a little further into the hazardous effects of the chemicals present in tap water and shed light on the potential risks they pose to our health.
Chlorine: A Double-Edged Sword
Chlorine, commonly used as a disinfectant in water treatment facilities, is intended to eliminate harmful bacteria and pathogens. While it serves its purpose, prolonged exposure to chlorine can have detrimental effects on our health. Chlorine has been linked to respiratory issues, skin irritation, and even certain types of cancer. Furthermore, when chlorine interacts with organic matter in the water, it forms disinfection byproducts (DBPs), such as trihalomethanes (THMs), which have been associated with adverse health outcomes.Heavy Metals: Silent Intruders
Tap water may contain trace amounts of heavy metals like lead, mercury, and arsenic. These contaminants can infiltrate water supplies through corroded pipes or natural deposits. Long-term exposure to heavy metals can lead to a range of health problems, including developmental issues in children, organ damage, and neurological disorders. Lead, specifically, is a major concern due to its potential impact on brain development, particularly in young children.Pesticides and Herbicides: Unwanted Residues
Agricultural runoff and improper disposal practices can introduce pesticides and herbicides into our water sources. These chemicals, designed to protect crops, can find their way into our tap water. Consuming water contaminated with pesticide residues has been linked to adverse effects on the nervous system, hormonal imbalances, and increased cancer risks.Pharmaceutical Residues: Medication in Our Water
As a result of incomplete filtration in water treatment plants, traces of pharmaceuticals like antibiotics, hormones, and antidepressants can persist in tap water. Even at low concentrations, these pharmaceutical residues can accumulate over time and potentially disrupt our endocrine system, contribute to antibiotic resistance, and impact aquatic ecosystems.Microplastics: Tiny Contaminants, Big Concerns
Recent studies have revealed the presence of microplastics in tap water samples worldwide. These microscopic plastic particles, originating from various sources, can be ingested through water consumption. While the long-term health effects of microplastic ingestion are still being studied, preliminary research suggests potential adverse impacts on the digestive system and the absorption of essential nutrients.
My Water Filter Systems
Being aware of the hazardous effects of tap water chemicals is crucial for safeguarding our health and well-being. While water treatment facilities play a vital role in ensuring the water we receive is relatively safe, there are additional precautions we can take to further protect ourselves.
I personally have invested in a whole-house water filtration system that removes most of these contaminants, apart from fluoride. I feel this is important because our skin is our biggest organ that absorbs chemicals it comes into contact with, such as from our shower water, and with daily showering these chemicals can accumulate in the body.
Under my sink I have a reverse osmosis system to filter our drinking water that removes up to 99% of these chemicals and contaminants including fluoride. Now, because reverse osmosis water filters remove practically EVERYTHING from the water, it does remove minerals which are healthy for the body, mainly calcium and magnesium, so I have an additional filter that adds these minerals back into the water.
I've had so many questions about which filtration systems I have, so here they are: My whole house filtration system is a Frontier XBB20-FT300, and my reverse osmosis system is an Aqua Pro 6 stage system with remineraliser and alkaliser.
The total cost for our whole house water filtration and reverse osmosis systems was around AUD $3000-$4000, and while not cheap, I feel it's definitely worth it for your health. Not to mention, the TASTE of the water is so much nicer! Whenever I do have to drink tap water while away from home, I really notice the taste and smell of the chlorine... yuk!
Best Bench-top Water Filter Recommendations
If you're after a more affordable alternative or don't have the ability to install a water filtration system, a bench-top water filter is great! I used to use a bench-top water filter prior to having our reverse osmosis system. Most bench-top water filters also remove up to 99% of contaminants, and you can also get some filters that remove fluoride too.
Here are my recommendations (please note some of these filters are only available in Australia, and others only available in the USA) *some contain affiliate links:
(Available in Australia)
Waters Co Bio 500
5.25L Benchtop Water Filter that has 13 stages of filtration and activation, removing up to 99% of contaminants
(Available in Australia)
Waters Co Bio 1000
10L Benchtop Water Filter that has 13 stages of filtration and activation, removing up to 99% of contaminants
(Available in Australia)
AceBio + WatersCo Water Filter Jug
(I have this and love taking it camping and when I go away on holidays)
1L water filter jug that removes up to 99% of chlorine, heavy metals, fluoride, bacteria, rust. Has a 10 stage filtration re-mineralises and ionises water.
(Available in Australia)
MyWater Jug Water Filter
1.5L water filter jug that removes up to 99% of chlorine, heavy metals, fluoride, bacteria, rust. Has a 7 stage filtration re-mineralises and ionises water.
(Available in Australia)
Earths Water Filter
9L Glass Benchtop Water Filter. Made from high borosilicate glass & natural bamboo and 100% BPA free
(Available in Australia)
Ceramic Bench Top Water Filter
10L gravity water filter. You can purchase filter candle replacements that remove up to 99% of impurities including fluoride.
(Available in USA)
Waterdrop WD-K19-S Countertop Reverse Osmosis
170 oz tank. Does not require installation and has a 4 stage filtration system with UV sterilization.
(Available in USA)
Waterdrop WD-AI Countertop Reverse Osmosis Hot+Cold
Does not require installation and has a 6 stage filtration system with UV sterilization. Temperature control function for instant cooling and heating of water
(Available in USA)
Waterdrop Pitcher Filter Alkaline
10 Cup (2.4L) jug reduces chlorine by 97.5% as well as other impurities. This one comes with an Alkaline Filter replacement that removes additional impurities including fluoride while alkalising the water
(Available in USA)
Waterdrop Dispenser Filter Alkaline
100 Gallon (40 cups) with 6 layer filtration and alkaliser. It has a light indicator for filter replacement and can easily fit inside your fridge for chilled water.