What's in Your Water?
Even though our tap water has been inspected and has to adhere to EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) guidelines, it doesn’t mean it is safe for human consumption. The EPA guidelines have not been updated in decades, and our tap water still contains many toxins that can be quite harmful. Some of the toxins include heavy metals, pesticides that affect the brain, radioactive compounds, arsenic, and PFAS.The most common toxic compounds in water are atrazine, arsenic, lead and fluoride. Atrazine is an herbicide linked to birth defects and increased estrogen levels, which can be linked to ovarian and breast cancer. It is an endocrine disruptor, which causes issues with our hormonal system. Arsenic is a poison linked to cancer. Lead is also commonly found in water. It can affect every organ in the body and is especially dangerous to children. Fluoride may cause issues in the nervous system and increase the risk of diabetes and cancer.PFAS are also an issue in our water supply. PFAS are toxic fluorinated chemicals known as “forever chemicals” since they do not break down once released into the environment. PFAS have been linked to an increased cancer risk. It also reduces the effectiveness of vaccines and may harm the developing fetus. In 2020, the Environmental Working group (EWG) tested tap water for PFAS and found toxic levels in most major water supplies. There is no federal standard for PFAS and states are responsible for setting their own limits.Many people choose bottled water, thinking it is a healthier option. When the EWG examined 10 different bottled waters, they found 38 contaminants, many above state limits. Many bottled water companies get their water from municipal water supplies instead of natural springs. Additionally, chemicals like phthalates and Bisphenol A (BPAs) can leach from the plastic bottles. BPAs are endocrine receptors which negative affect hormones and are linked to cancer. Additionally, some bottled waters contain contaminants above state limits.So what is the answer?Luckily, the Environmental Working group (www.ewg.org) has created a tap water tool, which inspects tap water by zip code (https://www.ewg.org/tapwater/). Check it out!After you find out the status of your local tap water, buy a water filter to remove contaminants. It can range from a pitcher in your refrigerator to filter that fits under your sink to a whole home filter. On the EWG website, they rate different filters at all different price ranges.Water is one of them most important things we put into our bodies. Make sure you are drinking the purest and best water that you can!