Why Filtered Water Matters: What’s in Your Water and How to Drink Cleaner
We all know water is essential, but not all water is created equal. While we’re lucky to have access to tap water in Australia, it can sometimes contain some hidden extras that aren’t so great for your health. That's where filtered water comes in. By upgrading to filtered water, you’re not just getting cleaner hydration – you’re supporting your body in the best way possible. Let’s explore why water quality matters, what’s typically in unfiltered water, and how you can easily switch to better water by choosing the right filter for your home. Plus, I’ll highlight some top Australian water filter brands to get you started!
The Vital Role of Water in the Body
Water is more than just something to quench your thirst – it’s a powerhouse for your health. Here’s why water is absolutely critical to your body:
Hydration for energy and focus: Every cell in your body needs water to function. Proper hydration improves energy levels, concentration, and overall physical performance.
Natural detoxification: Water helps flush out toxins through your kidneys, liver, and digestive system, keeping your internal systems running smoothly.
Supports digestion: Staying hydrated ensures your digestive system works efficiently, helping prevent constipation and ensuring nutrients are properly absorbed.
Temperature regulation: Water helps keep your body cool by regulating your internal temperature, especially during exercise or hot weather.
Joint lubrication: Water cushions your joints, allowing for smoother movement and reducing the risk of injury.
With so many critical roles, the quality of the water you drink makes a big difference in how well these processes work.
What’s Hiding in Unfiltered Water?
Even though tap water goes through treatment processes, it can still contain contaminants that might surprise you:
Chlorine: Added to disinfect water, chlorine can react with organic material to form byproducts like trihalomethanes (THMs), which have been linked to health risks with long-term exposure.
Fluoride: While fluoride is added to water to help prevent tooth decay, excess fluoride consumption has been associated with dental and skeletal fluorosis and may impact the thyroid and cognitive function.
Heavy metals: Lead, mercury, and arsenic can find their way into tap water from old pipes and environmental pollution. These metals can accumulate in the body and cause neurological, developmental, and systemic issues over time.
Pesticides and herbicides: Agricultural runoff can introduce chemicals like pesticides into water supplies, which may disrupt your hormones and increase the risk of chronic health conditions.
Microplastics: Tiny plastic particles are being found in water sources worldwide, and while research is ongoing, early studies raise concerns about the potential harm to our organs and immune system.
Health Impacts of Unfiltered Water
Regularly drinking unfiltered water can expose you to these contaminants, leading to long-term effects on your health, such as:
Gut health imbalance: Chlorine and other chemicals can disrupt the balance of healthy bacteria in your gut, leading to digestive issues and weakened immune function.
Increased toxin exposure: Heavy metals and microplastics can build up in the body, contributing to inflammation, oxidative stress, and a greater risk of chronic diseases.
Hormonal disruption: Chemicals like pesticides and fluoride may interfere with the endocrine system, potentially affecting metabolism, mood, and reproductive health.
The Benefits of Drinking Filtered Water
Switching to filtered water provides a host of health benefits by reducing or eliminating these harmful substances:
Cleaner, safer water: Filtration removes contaminants like chlorine, heavy metals, and pesticides, giving you water that’s safe and healthy to drink.
Better taste and smell: Removing chemicals such as chlorine can improve the taste and smell of your water, making it more enjoyable to drink.
Improved hydration: Your body absorbs clean, pure water more efficiently, supporting better overall hydration.
Healthier skin and hair: Filtered water reduces exposure to harsh chemicals that can dry out skin and hair, helping you feel and look better.
Water Filter Brands to Check Out
If you’re ready to start drinking filtered water, here are some top water filter brands to consider:
Waters Co.
Aqua Tru
Complete Home Filtration
Pure Water Systems
Investing in a good water filter is one of the simplest ways to improve your health. By removing harmful contaminants and ensuring you’re drinking clean, pure water, you can support better digestion, energy, skin, and overall well-being. With plenty of Australian brands to choose from, you can easily find a filter that fits your needs and budget.
So, why wait? Make the switch to filtered water today and start enjoying the benefits of cleaner, healthier hydration!
References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7150002/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969723051847