The Essential Guard: Why Your Home Needs a High-Quality Water Filtration System.

Chlorine – When chlorine is added to water, it reacts with organic and inorganic matter in the water, such as decaying vegetation and other natural substances. This reaction leads to the formation of various DBPs, the most common groups being trihalomethanes (THMs) and halo acetic acids (HAAs). These compounds are formed when chlorine reacts with natural organic matter in water.

Health Effects of DBPs:

Cancer Risk: Several studies have shown that certain DBPs are linked to an increased risk of cancer, particularly bladder cancer. The risk is associated with long-term exposure to high levels of these chemicals.

 Reproductive Issues: Exposure to high levels of DBPs has also been linked to reproductive problems, including miscarriages and birth defects.

Respiratory Issues: Inhalation of vapors containing chlorine and DBPs during activities like showering can potentially lead to respiratory issues.

Fluoride – Fluoride is a mineral commonly added to public water supplies and dental products like toothpaste to help prevent tooth decay. While fluoride is effective at promoting dental health, there is ongoing debate and research into the potential side effects of long-term fluoride consumption, particularly when it is ingested in large quantities

Dental Fluorosis: The most common side effect of excessive fluoride intake, especially during the early years of tooth development, is dental fluorosis. This condition is characterized by changes in the appearance of the tooth enamel. Teeth may exhibit mild discolouration with white specks or streaks, and in severe cases, they can have brown stains or pitting. Dental fluorosis is primarily a cosmetic issue and occurs during tooth development before the teeth break through the gums.

Skeletal Fluorosis: This is a much rarer condition than dental fluorosis and can occur as a result of long-term exposure to high levels of fluoride, typically from contaminated water or severe environmental pollution. Skeletal fluorosis leads to pain and damage to bones and joints. In severe cases, it can cause changes to bone structure, calcification of ligaments, and reduced joint mobility.

  Thyroid Problems: There is some evidence suggesting that excessive fluoride intake could be linked to impaired thyroid function. High levels of fluoride might lead to reduced thyroid gland activity, potentially resulting in hypothyroidism. This condition can lead to symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and depression.

 Neurological Effects: Some studies, particularly those carried out in regions with endemic fluoride exposure from drinking water, suggest a potential link between high fluoride levels and developmental neurological issues. Research has indicated an association between high fluoride exposure in children and lowered IQ scores, though these findings are subject to ongoing debate and require further investigation.

Other Effects: Excessive fluoride intake has also been linked to other health issues, such as gastrointestinal problems when fluoride supplements are taken on an empty stomach, and possibly an increased risk of bone fractures.

Nitrates –

 The primary source of high nitrate levels in New Zealand is intensive agricultural practices, particularly dairy farming, which is a major industry in the country. The use of synthetic fertilizers and the disposal of animal waste contribute to nitrate pollution. This issue is especially prevalent in regions with high dairy farm concentrations, such as Canterbury and Southland.

Methemoglobinemia: The most immediate and severe health risk from high nitrate levels in drinking water is methemoglobinemia, commonly known as “blue baby syndrome.” This condition primarily affects infants under six months of age. It occurs when nitrates interfere with the blood’s ability to carry oxygen, resulting in an oxygen deficiency that can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Cancer: There is ongoing research into the potential link between nitrates in drinking water and an increased risk of certain types of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer. The concern arises from the ability of nitrates to form nitrosamines, which are potent carcinogens, under certain conditions in the human digestive system.

Other Health Issues: High nitrate levels might also contribute to other health issues, such as thyroid disorders and chronic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. However, these associations require further study to establish clear causative links.