Clean, pure drinking water is essential for maintaining good health, and many people may not fully appreciate the benefits that come from using a water filter. While staying hydrated is crucial, filtered water offers additional health benefits that go beyond just quenching your thirst. By removing harmful contaminants such as chlorine, lead, and other impurities, a water filter can improve the taste and smell of your water, making it more enjoyable to drink.
Filtered water helps enhance nutrient absorption in your body, which in turn supports digestion and overall health. When potential toxins are removed through the filtration process, your body can better absorb essential nutrients from food and beverages. This can lead to improved energy levels and better bodily functions.
In addition to better taste and improved nutrient absorption, using a water filter can significantly reduce your exposure to harmful substances like lead and chlorine. These contaminants are often found in tap water and can have serious long-term health effects. By opting for filtered water, you are taking a proactive step in protecting your health and the health of your loved ones.
What is Filtered Water?
Filtered water is water that has been passed through a system designed to remove impurities. These impurities can include chemicals, metals, bacteria, and sediment.
Types of Filters:
- Activated Carbon: Removes chlorine, improves taste and smell.
- Reverse Osmosis: Eliminates a wide range of contaminants, including heavy metals.
- UV Filters: Kills bacteria and viruses.
- Ceramic: Filters out bacteria and sediments.
Filtered water can come from various sources. You might use a pitcher with a disposable filter, a faucet-mounted device, or a more complex home filtration system.
Benefits:
- Taste and Smell: Filtered water often tastes and smells better due to the removal of chlorine and other contaminants.
- Health: Reducing contaminants can make water healthier to drink, especially in areas with poor water quality.
Health Benefits of Filtered Water
Filtered water offers numerous health benefits that can improve your daily well-being. Key benefits include better taste and smell, increased skin hydration, reduced exposure to contaminants, and much more.
1. Better Taste and Smell
Filtered water often has an improved taste and smell compared to tap water. This is because filtration systems remove contaminants like chlorine, sulfur, and heavy metals. These substances can impart a metallic or chemical taste and odor. Using a basic activated carbon filter can lead to a noticeable improvement, making your water more enjoyable to drink.
2. Increased Skin Hydration
Consuming filtered water can significantly enhance skin hydration. Impurities and contaminants in tap water can affect the quality of hydration. Filtered water eliminates these potential irritants, ensuring that your skin receives the purest form of hydration. Better hydration leads to plumper, healthier skin and can help reduce signs of aging.
3. Reduced Exposure to Contaminants
Filtered water reduces your exposure to harmful contaminants. Common impurities found in tap water include lead, chlorine, and bacteria. These can have adverse health effects over time. By filtering your drinking water, you minimize ingestion of these harmful substances, contributing to better overall health and safety for you and your family.
4. Lessen Chance of Certain Cancers
Some research suggests that consuming filtered water can lower the risk of certain cancers. Tap water can contain carcinogenic substances such as chloroform and chlorine by-products. By using water filtration systems, you remove these potential hazards, which may reduce your risk of developing cancers linked to these chemicals.
5. Strengthen Immune System
Filtered water can help in strengthening your immune system. The removal of contaminants and microorganisms means your body doesn’t have to fight off these potential threats. This leaves your immune system more robust and better equipped to battle other illnesses. Clean water is essential for the maintenance of your overall health.
6. Healthier Skin and Hair
Filtered water contributes to healthier skin and hair. Tap water contains minerals and chemicals that can damage skin and hair. By removing these substances, filtered water can prevent dryness and irritation. This can lead to softer, smoother skin and shinier, stronger hair, enhancing your natural beauty.
7. Improved Kidney Function
Filtered water supports improved kidney function. Kidneys are responsible for filtering waste from your body, and consuming water free of impurities can lessen their load. Cleaner water means your kidneys can function more efficiently, reducing the risk of kidney stones and other renal issues.
8. Reduce Skin Breakouts
Reducing skin breakouts can also be a benefit of filtered water. Contaminants in tap water can clog pores and contribute to acne and other skin issues. By drinking clean, filtered water, you can help clear your skin from the inside out, leading to a reduction in blemishes and a clearer complexion.
9. Glowing Skin
Drinking filtered water can give you glowing skin. The absence of harmful elements ensures that your skin remains well-hydrated and free from irritants. This promotes a natural, healthy glow, as your skin retains its moisture and elasticity. Hydrated skin is generally more radiant and youthful-looking.
How to Know If Your Water Needs Filtering
Understanding the quality of your water is crucial for ensuring it is safe and healthy for consumption. Below are specific steps to help you determine whether your water needs filtering.
Look up City's Water Quality Report
Start by checking your city's water quality report. These reports are often available online through your local government or water utility website. They provide detailed information about contaminants in your water and their levels. Key indicators to look for include chlorine, lead, and bacterial contamination.
These reports can help you identify if there are any violations of drinking water standards. If the report shows high levels of contaminants, it's a strong signal that you might need a water filter.
Test Your Water from Home
Home water testing kits are a convenient way to test your water quality. These kits can be purchased online or at hardware stores. They often include test strips that change color based on the presence of contaminants like iron, nitrates, and pH levels.
To use, simply collect a water sample and dip the test strip in it. Compare the strip colors to the provided chart to see the contaminant levels. This method offers a quick and easy way to get an initial assessment of your water quality.
Send a Water Sample to Certified Lab
For a more comprehensive analysis, consider sending a water sample to a certified laboratory. These labs use advanced testing methods to detect a wide range of contaminants, including heavy metals, pesticides, and microbiological organisms.
To do this, you’ll need to collect a water sample following the lab’s specific instructions, which typically involve using sterilized containers. Once the lab receives your sample, they will analyze it and provide a detailed report. This option is more thorough and can confirm the findings from home test kits.
By following these steps, you can make an informed decision on whether a water filter is necessary for your home.