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It should come as no surprise that the water coming out of the sink is not totally “clean.” Tap water often receives a poor reputation, as it is reliant on individual cities to regulate and ensure safety in water quality. More surprising is often the contaminants found in water claiming to be filtered–whether from a refrigerator filter or a water pitcher. Because there are so many dangerous contaminants present within water in the United States, it is crucial to find a filter that will adequately remove everything lurking in thewater.
Arguably the most dangerous contaminant found in your water is lead. Lead is a heavy metal that occurs naturally in the earth’s crust. It is malleable in nature, and until 1986, it used to be the most common metal for crafting household pipes, faucets, and plumbing fixtures.
Lead most often enters your water through corrosion in old lead pipes, and consuming even small amounts of lead can put you at risk of lead poisoning. In adults, lead poisoning can lead to high blood pressure and decreased kidney function. Children under six are even more susceptible to lead poisoning, and can lead to anemia, hyperactivity, and behavioral problems.
Arsenic is an element that, like lead, is found in the earth’s crust. In its natural, inorganic form, arsenic is highly toxic. According to the World Health Organization, arsenic is found in groundwater in many countries including the United States (1). Contaminated groundwater can lead to arsenic exposure if the groundwater is a source of drinking water or crop irrigation.
Exposure to arsenic can lead to cancer, skin lesions, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. Childhood or utero exposure may lead to stunted cognitive development and death. Ensuring your water is free from arsenic is crucial for the health of you and your household.
Another dangerous contaminant to keep in mind is the radioactive gas radon. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, radon “comes from the natural radioactive breakdown of uranium in the ground” (2). Radon gas can dissolve and accumulate in underground sources, often contaminating well water. Other groundwater sources like lakes and reservoirs are not at risk of radon gas contamination, since the gas will release in the pipes before it gets to your sink. Well water, however, is at risk.
Exposure to radon can lead to cell damage, and it is one of the leading causes of lung cancer.
Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances, more commonly known as PFAS or “forever chemicals,” are chemical compounds that are nearly indestructible. Industries that create the “nonstick” function on pots and pans are one of the most well-known causes of PFAS entering the environment. Once released into the environment, they seep into the soil and water sources. From there, they can enter the water supply. PFAS are found in most water sources around the United States.
PFAS take centuries to break down, and their health effects are still being researched. Currently, PFAS consumption is linked to ulcerative colitis and kidney cancer. Many other health effects are still being explored.
Lastly, mercury is a metallic element that can find itself in water supplies. Like lead, mercury is a heavy metal living in the earth’s crust. Mercury tends to enter water supplies due to human activity, like through agricultural pesticides or chemical manufacturing.
If ingested, mercury is highly toxic and can lead to mercury poisoning. Mercury poisoning is often associated with lack of coordination, muscle weakness, nerve damage, and hearing difficulties.
While it may be unnerving to know the contaminants lurking in tap or well water, there is a solution. Finding the right water filter can ensure that none of these contaminants–or the thousands of other germs or chemicals found in water–are consumed by you or your family. For peace of mind, try a Seychelle pH20 Water Pitcher. Seychelle’s alkalizing water pitcher removes up to 99.99% of aesthetic, chemical, inorganic, and some radiological contaminants, including Radon 222. For the safest choice, shop Seychelle.
What is the most dangerous water contaminant?
Dangerous water contaminants native to the United States include lead, arsenic, radon, PFAS, and mercury.
Is US tap water safe to drink?
Depending on geographic location in the United States, some tap water is safer to drink than others. However, most tap water contains contaminants that should be filtered out before consumption.
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