Water is required for the brain to create neurotransmitters, regulate body temperature and flush our bodies of waste. We need to ensure we are drinking clean water with the proper nutrients. This will help you navigate the world of Water: minerals, filtration & electrolytes.
Let’s Dive In!
How can I make sure I am getting clean water? Start with, https://mytapwater.org. This Is a great place to check what kind of contaminants are in your water and how much. If you are in Contra Costa county like me, there is quite a bit of Haloacetic acid (byproduct of bleach), and other toxins. Step one to drinking clean water is identifying your water source & assessing contamination. If you get your water from your fridge, or another source, it is a good idea to ensure there is no presence of mold. Here is an article to help prevent or eliminate mold in your fridge filter!
Do I need a reverse osmosis filtration system? First, let me share what reverse osmosis is. Reverse osmosis is the process during which an outer pressure is applied to force the solvent through a membrane, which rejects the solute (Spohn, 2005). Meaning, everything is pushed out of the water, including key electrolytes calcium, chloride, fluoride, magnesium, potassium and sodium (Kravitz). Reverse Osmosis is a powerful water filter and does remove any toxins and contaminants. So, if you are going to use this type of system, you will need to replenish the electrolytes in your water. However, Carbon filters can remove the same amount of contaminants and do not remove electrolytes (Jern, 2023). Here are two I recommend: www.berkeyfilters.com/ & https://lifestraw.com/pages/compare
What should I do when traveling to ensure I drink clean water?
Lifestraw!! This water bottle is easy to carry around and will protect you from bacteria and parasites. If you want to protect your gut health while traveling, this is highly recommended. You can also utilize water filtration techniques like tablets.
Do I need electrolytes?
If you are experiencing any of the following, electrolytes may be what you are missing…
If you are using reverse osmosis filtration,
If you are drinking lots of water and not feeling satisfied,
If you have difficulty getting appropriate water intake,
If you experience daily headaches,
If you have daily afternoon crashes,
If you partake in extensive exercise with lots of sweating.
Electrolytes need to be replenished, and if you are low, your body needs you to help! Be aware of the quality of your electrolytes, you want to avoid anything with added sugar & sweeteners. A few good options to try include, LMNT, Ultima, and Designs For Health.
Resources:
Spohn. (2005, May 28). Membrane techniques: Dialysis and reverse osmosis. Encyclopedia of Analytical Science (Second Edition). https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B0123693977003678
Kravitz, L. (n.d.). Water: The Science of Nature’s Most Important Nutrient. Water: Nature’s most important nutrient.
https://www.unm.edu/~lkravitz/Article%20folder/WaterUNM.html#:~:text=Drinking%20water%20contains%20several%20electrolytes,the%20gastrointestinal%20and%20respiratory%20tracts
Jern, M. (2023, July 24). What does activated carbon filters remove from tap water? . Tapp Water. https://tappwater.co/en/what-activated-carbon-filters-remove/
Statements not evaluated by FDA, not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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