5. Avoiding PFAS
Also known as forever chemicals due to their ability to persist in the environment, PFAS – which stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances – are artificial. These chemicals are in everything from nonstick pans to makeup to firefighting foam and they stay in your body for years once you’ve swallowed them. They build to higher levels in your bloodstream as you continue consuming them.
No one is sure what they do to the human body, but studies show poor health outcomes for animals exposed to PFAS. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention plans to investigate their effects in over 30 communities across the US. Granular activated carbon and reverse osmosis filters can remove PFAS from drinking water.
6. Preventing Gastrointestinal Illness
Germs that sometimes get into tap water include Cryptosporidium, Campylobacter, Giardia and E. coli, all of which cause stomach problems such as diarrhea. Although water filters don’t protect against viruses, many remove these harmful disease-causing bacteria.
Kids get sick enough as it is. If you want to reduce the risk of dealing with yet another stomach bug, use a water filter in your home.
Glass Half Full
They aren’t perfect, but water filters do a pretty good job of removing bacteria, PFAS and other toxins from the water. They also reliably improve the taste and colour of your water. While they won’t stop viruses, water filters have enough benefits that it certainly doesn’t hurt to use them. At the end of the day, whatever gets your children to drink more water is a victory!
Jane is the founder and editor-in-chief of Environment.co where she shares practical tips on how to live a greener life.
