Water is essential in human life and plays many important roles, such as flushing waste from the body and transporting nutrients for digestion. Water also protects our tissues, joints, and spinal cord and helps fight off illnesses like hypertension and constipation. It also keeps us clean and hydrated!
However, for us to experience and enjoy the benefits of water, we need to pay attention to its source. Unintentionally consuming chemicals in water can do more harm than good, as this can transmit diseases and even cause diarrhoeal deaths. Moreover, researchers have recently found that consuming US groundwater may increase a person’s risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
The Latest Reports
According to a neurologist at the University of Rochester Medical Center, a Parkinson’s pandemic is about to occur. The number of people diagnosed with the disease has increased by 35% over the last ten years, and this number is expected to continue to rise significantly.
Parkinson’s is the fastest-growing neurological disorder in the world and causes severe shaking and stiffness, along with difficulty in coordination and balance. Over time, the symptoms of Parkinson’s can worsen, causing a person to have difficulty walking and talking.
Although most of the cases still don’t have a clear cause, researchers were able to point out that exposure to Trichloroethylene (or TCE) is a contributing factor. TCE is a chemical compound often used in dry cleaning, household products, and industrial degreasing.
Under the United States Environmental Protection Agency (or EPA), TCE is considered “safe” to be present in drinking water as long as its maximum concentration is five parts per billion. The latest reports, however, show that about 30% of TCE is present in US groundwater, though many researchers are guessing that the amount is a lot more than this number.
Why Is TCE Dangerous?
TCE is a non-flammable and colorless liquid that has a sweet odor and taste. TCE is also considered a carcinogen linked to cancers of the cervix, liver, and renal cell carcinoma. Excessive exposure to TCE can damage the biliary passages, male breast tissues, and lymphatic system.
The connection between TCE and Parkinson’s might have been overlooked because exposure to the compound can predate the onset of diseases for decades. While some people exposed to TCE get sick almost immediately, others continue to work for decades before developing symptoms of Parkinson’s from TCE.
How Can We Reduce TCE in Drinking Water?
With reports stating the presence and dangers of TCE in US groundwater, it’s vital that we implement measures to ensure our safety. Every household in the world needs water, and continually using a supply with TCE in it can prevent us from living a healthy life.
After having conducted water testing, one of the most effective ways to reduce TCE in drinking water is to install and use a soft water filtration system with the main water supply of our homes. Water filter systems are equipped with activated carbon that can remove TCE to below the maximum contaminant levels (or MCL). With a high-quality water filtration unit installed in our homes, we’ll have peace of mind knowing that our family is safe and protected from the dangers of TCE, and other chemical contaminants.
Another solution for keeping our families safe is to use an alternative water supply, like bottled water, for drinking. However, keep in mind that this solution is short-term and can cost more money in the long run. Moreover, using an alternative water supply for drinking will still expose us to TCE in groundwater as we’ll use water when showering, washing the dishes, and doing the laundry.
Since TCE vapors can also enter our homes and cause symptoms, such as drowsiness, headaches, and unconsciousness, it’s also important for us to look for ways to properly seal our homes. This is especially true if we’re located near groundwater. For us to prevent TCE vapors from entering our homes, we need to seal foundation cracks and areas where there are utility lines. We can also invest in sump pumps to prevent TCE vapors from coming into the home by vapor intrusion.
Taking shorter and colder showers, along with using a vent fan in the bathroom and laundry room, can also help. This can reduce our exposure to TCE present in the water supply but still enable us to use the amenities in our home.
Water Filtration Matters
It’d be challenging for any of us to live life to the fullest if we regularly consume contaminated water. Instead of using water to improve our overall health, contaminated water can only cause damage to our bodies.
For us to ensure health and safety when using our drinking water source, it’s best to invest in whole house filtration as soon as possible. The cost of the purchase and installation of this product may be slightly expensive, but its benefits will be worth it in the long run
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