Drinking water is beneficial for all functions of life. Not only does it restore energy levels, but it can even reduce the oxidative stress during a powerful workout. Staying hydrated can help the skin look younger, curb appetite and help overall brain function. Unfortunately, many water supply systems have levels of arsenic that can have serious health consequences. Water filters like the berkey water filter can help purify water so that potentially hazardous chemicals do not enter the body.
What Is Arsenic?
Arsenic is an element that can occur in rock and soil. It is essentially odorless and tasteless and can reach both public and private water supply systems. Arsenic can cause serious health issues because it is a human carcinogen that can impact the vascular system. For preserving wood or killing insects, arsenic can come in handy. Drinking it is never recommended.
According to the World Health Organization, this element can be extremely toxic when it is found in its organic form. Once it has infiltrated a private or public water system, water is contaminated and can impact food preparation as well as direct personal health. Long-term exposure of arsenic can lead to cancer, skin conditions, diabetes and cardiovascular issues.
The most common symptoms that are reported from early exposure to arsenic include acute stomach pain. This can mean an individual is prone to vomiting, cramping and diarrhea. The arms and fingers may tingle as well as muscle soreness. Although these symptoms can occur early on, many people do not experience the intense onset of symptoms and may not know they are drinking contaminated water until they experience extreme health consequences.
How To Tell If Water Is Contaminated?
It can be extremely difficult to tell whether arsenic is in the water. Because it has no smell or taste, it often goes undetected.
Arsenic usually enters a water supply from mining and industrial processes. Although lakes, streams and rivers can all have high levels of arsenic, ground water from wells are more likely to experience contaminated water. Since neither tap water or well water is immune to contamination from arsenic, using a water filter can help maintain physical health.
Testing for arsenic can be done by hiring a professional or contacting the local public health officer for testing information. To successfully test well water for arsenic or other types of contamination, the results of the test must be sent to a lab. Regular testing is recommended for those who use a well for primary drinking water. Some residents assume that if their neighbor’s well tested negative for arsenic, then their’s will too. This is not necessarily true. Healthy well water depends on the surface and underground geology. The construction of the well is also taken into consideration.
Conclusion
Safe drinking water is essential for regular consumption. Although many people assume water that comes from a well may be healthier because of its direct route, this is actually incorrect. Neither tap water nor well water is guaranteed to be pure or even drinkable. Whether using water for bathing, drinking or cooking, arsenic and other contaminants can cause serious health problems if water is not properly filtered. So, drink safely and live a life that is free from harmful elements.