According to the Center for Disease Control, almost 900 million people do not have access to clean drinking water. Additionally, over 2 billion people are living with drinking water sources contaminated by waste. Water is one of the major components of our body, so the consequences of unsafe drinking water are devastating in many parts of the world.

America is not immune to the problem of potentially harmful drinking water. Between 9 and 45 million Americans are exposed to unsafe drinking water every year. Consuming tainted water can result in gastrointestinal issues, respiratory problems, and even cancer.

Because water is such a crucial building block of human anatomy, it is important to understand the causes and consequences of unsafe drinking water. It is also vital to overall well-being that safe and smart hydration practices are adopted.

Modern Hazards

The largest source of water pollution in America comes from agricultural runoff. Heavy rains cause fertilizers, pesticides, and animal waste to enter the groundwater supply. The general upkeep of livestock can affect the groundwater as well. Many viruses and pathogens from the animals seep into underground sources.

Sewage and wastewater are the second-largest pollutants in the water supply. America’s sewage plants process around 34 billion gallons of sewage a day. However, experts speculate that 850 billion gallons of untreated wastewater go back into the water supply every year.

Another form of wastewater pollution comes from the various waste chemicals and debris from vehicles. These pollutants wash off the roads and enter the groundwater once again because of rain. Finally, industrial waste is another contributor to wastewater and sewage contamination. Most heavy metals in the water come from the waste byproducts of industry and manufacturing.

Heavy metals, pesticides, and viruses can all have a serious impact on a community’s health. It is important to have the facts surrounding municipal water sources and groundwater surveys.

How it Gets Clean

Regardless of the concerns involving how much wastewater reenters the water supply without being treated, the United States still has some of the cleanest water on earth. The quality of the drinking water is due to a process that continues improving through innovation.

For starters, local treatment plants begin with the dissolution and removal of large particles in the water. From there, sediment is separated by resting the water and letting solids fall to the bottom of the storage tank. Last, either ultraviolet light or bleach kill the microscopic germs that remain.

There are also several new developments in the ongoing effort for cleaner drinking water. NASA’s Johnson Space Center has designed a mesh filter that is a more energy-efficient way of separating water from harmful elements. Similarly, there are new inventions for desalination and harnessing fog and vapor to create safe, drinkable water.

Playing it Safe

Many choose to take extra precautions with their drinking water. While boiling tap water is an effective, the home water supply has other options for quality control.

For instance, the home filtration system is becoming more common today. Some families use filtered pitchers or install filtration devices directly onto their tap. Other individuals choose more intricate filtration systems that are installed directly into the water supply of their home.

Bottled water is also an option for those who are not comfortable with the local water. While both convenient and generally safe, some bottled water can also serve as a source of beneficial minerals. These are especially rich in calcium and magnesium, minerals that can contribute to heart health and lowering blood pressure.

Bottoms Up

Making a choice to consume the recommended amount of water daily is just as important as choosing the source. Proper water consumption does not simply keep the body hydrated; it also aids in many of the natural functions. Waste removal is only one function of hydration, as it can also help to maintain regularity and promote healthier skin.

The choice to drink water and stay hydrated is also linked with other positive life choices. The Center for Disease Control reported that U.S. adolescents who monitored their water intake were more likely to possess healthier eating habits as well.

But with the recommended amount being around 3 liters for men and 2.5 liters for women, how is it possible to keep up with what you are consuming? Furthermore, how does a person ensure that they are sticking to the guidelines?

Have a Plan

One of the most common ways that Americans monitor their hydration is through measured bottles and cups. Technology has had its breakthroughs as well, with hydration apps being available for download. Though seemingly a chore at times, the benefits of proper hydration outweigh any inconvenience.

It is crucial to understand the body’s needs. There are several factors to take into consideration, especially age, weight, and amount of activity. Establish a plan for consumption, then try to have checkpoints throughout the day. This way, there will be no need to catch up. Similarly, setting up designated times for mandatory hydration can be helpful.

Liven it Up

There are more ways than ever to add vitamins and minerals to ordinary drinking water. Many of these options add flavor as well, making water consumption a little less tedious. Electrolyte powder has long been a go-to option for athletes because it contains ingredients that allow maximum muscle exertion and recovery. However, more and more Americans are beginning to supplement their diet with B and C-vitamin boosters, as they can help with both immune and circulatory functions. Furthermore, certain water additives can provide vitamins for proper brain function, such as Ginkgo Biloba and Vitamin K2.

It is important to note that vitamin water should not be a primary source of hydration. However, a small amount daily can supplement a diet, exercise routine, and other positive habits.

Live Long and Prosper

While a simple aspect of American life, water health and consumption are arguably two of the most important. A lack of hydration or poor-quality water can result in many physical problems, some of them potentially fatal. Keeping an eye on water quality and personal consumption can ensure that proper digestion and circulation are maintained.

There are many resources for understanding water quality, as well as how much a person needs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has exhaustive guides to taking steps on every level to protect yourself. The Mayo Clinic also has extensive material regarding hydration and personal health. It is always wise to stay informed regarding health and wellbeing.

After all, you can never be too careful with one of nature's most valuable resources.