How Do Water Purification Systems Keep You Healthy?
Water is a fundamental resource that sustains life, but the quality of our water sources can vary greatly.
Every time you pour yourself a glass of tap water, you trust it’s safe to drink. But did you know that water in the UK, even if it’s legally safe, can still have small amounts of chlorine, lead, and other contaminants? These substances may be within "acceptable" limits, but what do years of exposure mean for your health?
According to the BBC, studies have linked long-term exposure to some of these contaminants to several issues. These include digestive problems, skin irritation, hormone disruption, and even neurological effects. If you live in a hard water area, excessive mineral content not only leads to limescale buildup in appliances, but also potential kidney problems.
Water purification systems remove harmful chemicals, improve taste, and ensure cleaner hydration. However, not all filters are created equal. We might be biased, but figuring out the best and most sustainable filtration method for your water is essential.
Here's why we believe that it's one of the simplest yet most effective ways to boost your health and lower waste.
How Water Purification Systems Improve Your Health
Water purification systems serve two essential purposes: eliminating harmful contaminants and enhancing hydration quality. However, different purification methods target various contaminants.
Choosing the right system depends on your water source and quality:
- Activated Carbon Filters: Remove chlorine, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
- Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems: Reduce fluoride, lead, nitrates, and pharmaceutical residues.
- Alkaline Filters: Retain essential minerals while improving pH balance.
Supporting Hydration & Nutrient Absorption
Proper hydration supports cognitive function, kidney health, and digestion. Filtered water improves taste and removes unpleasant odours, making it easier to stay hydrated.
Did you know? The NHS recommends drinking 6-8 glasses of water daily to maintain hydration.
But which water is best for you?
- Water with a balanced pH can support gut health, helping to maintain digestive efficiency.
- Alkaline water may help boost metabolic function, especially for people who consume a lot of acid.
- Mineral-rich water can help replenish essential electrolytes. This is particularly beneficial for those who exercise regularly.
What’s in Your Tap Water? The Hidden Contaminants
Although UK drinking water is considered among the safest in the world, it is not entirely free from contaminants. The UK Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) ensures tap water meets strict safety standards. However, even within legal limits, potentially harmful substances can still be present.
Chlorine & Disinfection Byproducts
Chlorine is used to disinfect drinking water and ensure it is free from bacteria and viruses. However, chlorine reacts with organic matter in water. It forms trihalomethanes (THMs) – chemical compounds linked to long-term health risks. We're not ones to scaremonger, but studies show that being exposed to THMs for a long time is related to bladder cancer and poor pregnancy outcomes.
Here's what you need to know:
- The chlorine in tap water can irritate the skin and cause dryness, especially for people with sensitive skin.
- THMs do not pose an immediate health risk, but long-term exposure may contribute to cellular damage.
- Activated carbon filters efficiently remove chlorine and its byproducts, which can boost water safety and taste.
For further details on chlorine in drinking water, read our blog, Chlorine in Your Tap Water: Is It Safe?
The Health Benefits of Water Purification Systems
Better water. Better health. Take control of your hydration today.
Drinking water should be a source of hydration – not hidden contaminants. Even legally safe tap water can contain chlorine and heavy metals. However, water purification systems safeguard and ensure that every sip you take is clean, pure, and beneficial to your health. Picking the right water filter is key for your health. It can remove harmful substances, enhance taste, and reduce limescale buildup. This choice makes a real difference.
Phox’s refillable filtration methods don’t just clean your water – they remove chlorine, limescale, and heavy metals while reducing plastic waste. For example, our 3-Month Clean Refill Pack softens hard water and delivers fresher-tasting hydration. Unlike traditional filters, it’s sustainable, refillable, and eco-friendly. So you get pure water without harming the planet.