In the scope of the universe, our planet remains an anomaly to us as it is the only known planet in the universe where life flourished. This is due in large part to the presence of liquid water on our planet’s surface; it is a well-known fact that three-quarters of the earth’s surface is filled with water. Water is one of the key ingredients needed for carbon-based life as we know it and is essential to sustain a healthy body; here are some facts on water and the role it plays in our lives.
Our Need for Water
Contrary to common belief, our bodies are in fact composed of roughly 60% water rather than 90%. In order to function properly, the human body must replenish fluids lost through digestion and urination; as a general rule of thumb a human can only survive for about three days without drinking water. Keeping hydrated helps keep one’s skin looking good and keeps things moving along the gastrointestinal tract to prevent constipation. The average person needs approximately three liters of water per day as 20% of our fluid intake comes from the food we eat. With Americans using around 346,000 million gallons of fresh water every day, one has to wonder how clean that water really is.
What Impure Water Does to Our Bodies
Our drinking water typically comes from wells or through water purification centers. Groundwater has a number of contaminates including sulfur; this is why some wells produce water that has a strong rotten egg smell. Even water that has been treated still has contaminates and added chemicals from the water treatment process itself not to mention potential contaminants that could enter the water while on its way to someone’s sink. The consumption of impure, contaminated drinking water is the number one cause for epidemic disease in developing countries — thankfully some countries are building innovative water filtration systems that help keep people safe from their own thirst. This is important especially for pregnant women and children as clean, healthy drinking water is essential to a child’s proper mental and physical development and to prevent birth defects. The recent state of emergency in Flint, Michigan where lead from the Flint River was found in drinking water has shown the devastating impact as the EPA contributes 480,000 cases of learning disorders in children each year due to the presence of lead in drinking water.
The Impact In Home Water Purification Systems Have on a Home’s Water
With over 2,100 known drinking water contaminants that could be present in tap water and old pipes that may still contain lead that can contaminate water, there is a clear reason to want to ensure your water is safe. The only way to do this is through the use of in home water purification systems which can remove dissolved additives including Fluoride which is used to help prevent cavities yet too much can decrease bone strength. Many in home water purification systems also come with water softener systems for homes to help decrease the effect of hard water on one’s dishes, clothing, and skin. By purchasing a certified home water purifier you can rest with the confidence of knowing that your drinking water is pure, fresh, and clean of harmful contaminates.