The Pursuit of clean H20 in college
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Percent of Water bottles that contain chemicals above state health limits in a study done with a sample of 1,000 water bottles.
Can Bottled Water be Unhealthy?
A primary concern of the increase in processed products being mass consumed, like bottled water, is the consumers lack of knowledge surrounding the addition of harmful substances to said products.
Unfortunately, companies put chemicals and additives into your everyday food and drink products, like water bottles, that are harmful to your health. For example, the popular water brand, Disani’s main ingredient is magnesium sulfate, better known as Epsom salt, with potassium chloride falling in second.
Magnesium sulfate causes bloating, irritates the stomach lining, and can cause the consumers mouth to become dehydrated; this is a tactic to increase profits- if a consumers mouth is dry, then they are more likely to buy a second bottle.
Potassium chloride, another chemical found in Disani’s water, is used in fertilizers and lethal injections, meaning high levels of this chemical can result in death. You would need to consumer a larger amount of Dasani water for death to occur, but it still makes you wonder- why is it added to our water?
The Surprising World of Water Brands
Many of us are accustomed to buying bottled water without a second thought. But did you know that the source of the water, the bottling process, and even the additives can vary widely from brand to brand? Some brands source their water from natural springs, while others use municipal tap water and put it through purification processes. It’s essential to consider the origins and quality of the water you consume. Investigate brands and, whenever possible, opt for those that offer transparency about their water source and purification methods.
The Hidden Additives
One of the most significant revelations about bottled water is the presence of additives. Some companies add minerals or flavors to their water to enhance taste, while others use chemicals to extend shelf life. It’s alarming how many people are unaware of these additives in their bottled water. If you prefer a more natural and additive-free option, look for brands that clearly state their water is free from such enhancements.
The Importance of Consuming the Right Water
Water is more than just a thirst quencher; it’s a vital component of your overall health. The right water can hydrate you effectively, promote better digestion, support your immune system, and even help with detoxification. On the other hand, water with additives or contaminants may have the opposite effect, negatively impacting your health and well-being.
Ensuring Healthy Water in Your Dorm or Apartment
Water Filtration: Consider investing in a water brita system for your drinking water. There are various options, from pitcher filters to under-sink systems. Choose one that suits your space and budget.
Shower Filters: Often overlooked, showering in chlorinated water can affect your skin and hair. Install a shower filter to remove chlorine and other impurities, promoting healthier skin and hair.
Regular Maintenance: Ensure that your water filtration systems are regularly maintained and that filters are replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
If you prefer bottled water, explore brands that offer natural spring water without additives, and be conscious of plastic waste.
The water you consume and use in your college dorm or apartment is a crucial element of your daily life. Understanding the differences between water brands, the presence of additives, and the impact of water quality on your health is essential. By taking control of your water sources and making informed choices, you can ensure access to healthier water for drinking, showering, cleaning, and other everyday activities. Remember, water is not just a necessity; it’s an opportunity to support your well-being, one drop at a time.
Clean + pure sourced water brands:
- Mountain Valley Spring Water: comes inside of a glass bottle (healthiest way to drink water) and comes directly from a fresh spring in the mountains.
- Fiji: This water is known as ‘earths finest water’. This is because humans do not interfere with the water at all during the process of collection and the water is made 100% by nature, filtered by ancient volcanic rocks in the Fiji islands.
- Voss: recognized as one of the purest bottled waters in the world, as it has much lower levels of total dissolved solids than other major water brands.
- Most ‘natural spring’ water: Spring water comes directly from a fresh spring, containing natural minerals, like calcium, rather than harmful additives.
Not-so-good water brands:
*these are only a few of the many brands that have harmful chemicals or additives*
Disani
- Pure Life
- Aquifina
- Smart Water
- Most ‘purified’ water
