By David Blyweiss, M.D., Advanced Natural Wellness

April 04, 2012

• The secret the rest of the world knows
• The DIY solution to questionable water safety
• Find out what’s running out of your tap

Every day, when you do your dishes, flush the toilet, or take a shower, you probably don’t wonder whether the water will come out of the tap or not. You assume it will be there.

That isn’t the case for 884 million people in the world – roughly three times the population of the United States – who lack access to clean water.

But even here in the US, the definition of “clean” is under scrutiny.

The water infrastructure of this country is aging. CNN recently reported that there are 700 water main breaks in the U.S. each day. These breaks dramatically increase the system’s exposure to bacteria and viruses.

The American Society of Civil Engineers gave the nation’s drinking water system a D- in its 2009 Report Card of America’s Infrastructure. And thanks to the recession, it’s likely to stay that way.

Which brings me to the point of today’s issue: How safe is the water coming out of your tap? Is bottled water any better?

And last but not least, what do I recommend…

There are a few things we can’t afford to compromise. Clean drinking water, free of toxins, contaminants and harmful bacteria is pretty high up on that list.

You see, water is essential to your health. A full 70% of your body is made of water. Every single system of your body requires it to function.

Unfortunately, more and more environmental pollutants are finding their way into the water system. Depending on where you live, you might have nitrates, pesticides, lead and other contaminants coming out of your tap. And in some areas, traces of hormones, antidepressants and even illegal drugs such as cocaine have been identified.

Despite its popularity, bottled water isn’t much better for you. Bottled water is less regulated and has far less oversight than tap water. In many cases, it’s not much better than filtered tap water, and in some cases, it’s worse.

Then, there’s the expense. Ounce for ounce, bottled water is more expensive than gasoline.

Last but not at all least, is the BPA (Bisphenol A) in the plastic bottles themselves. While the FDA claims BPA is not a health threat, scientists disagree. A recent study linked BPA with heart disease and diabetes. While more studies on humans are needed, there are over 100 animal studies on BPA linking it to abnormal weight gain, insulin resistance, prostate cancer, and excessive mammary gland development.

When you add these factors together, bottled water ranks well below tap water as a healthy alternative.

So, what can you do?

I use – and recommend – distilled water.

It’s much cheaper than bottled water once you account for the one-time purchase of a home distiller. It removes harmful bacteria, toxins and other contaminants. And it’s completely pure and natural – using the same steam-cleaning process Mother Nature uses.

Distilled water is also free of chlorine and fluoride, two water additives that remain after filtration. While these additions seemed like a good idea at one time, both can lead to worse health problems than they solve.

And if you are prone to kidney stones, distilled water is a must.

In some circles, distilled water gets a bad rap. It removes everything from water – even minerals that are beneficial. Some have referred to it as “hungry” water, while others feel it has a “flat” taste.

Personally, I prefer removing all the toxins… even if some of the good stuff goes with it. The remedy I recommend is to add the good minerals back in before you drink. You can purchase bottles of liquid minerals made especially for re-mineralizing distilled water at any health food and supplement store, or online.

The four brands I recommend are: B.E.S.T. Process Trace Minerals, Hanna’s Colloidal Trace Minerals, Marine Minerals Trace Minerals or ConcenTrace ® Trace Mineral Drops. Just follow the directions on the label and voila, you have perfectly mineralized water, minus the toxins.

When it comes to storing the water or taking it to go, be sure to choose containers that are BPA free. Glass is great for the fridge. Ceramic or BPA-free plastic works when you’re on the go.

Whether you opt for distilled water, or add a filter system to your tap, it’s a good idea to see what you’re up against. Find out what’s in your water first, and then make a plan.

Here’s a helpful online resource:

http://www.ewg.org/tap-water/whats-in-yourwater

It’s going to take billions of dollars to upgrade the drinking water system in this country. Amidst a grinding recession, I wouldn’t hold my breath – or go thirsty – waiting for it to happen.

And even if you have a well, be sure to get it tested. Environmental toxins are everywhere, as are bacteria and viruses. Don’t assume that ground water is clean without testing.

Take charge of the health and welfare of your water. It’s too important to your health to leave it to chance.

Resources:

CNN News, U.S. Water System in Trouble, http://www.cnn.com/2011/US/01/20/water.main.infrastructure/

Insights, Chemical & Engineering News: Government & Policy – Bisphenol A On Trial April 16, 2007 Vol.85, No.16, P. 38