Danger from drinking 'raw water'

The water that comes from natural sources is called “raw water”. Popular– Raw water supporters reject public water sources, including tap water because they do not enjoy the taste or believe that it is not safe and out of important minerals.

On the raw water surface may look charming – the natural environment may look beautiful and water may look clean and taste fresh. But different from tap or bottled water in commercial, raw water is not evaluated for safety This causes people who drink it at risk of other poisonous microbes or contaminants.

I am Microbiology researchers Study infectious diseases From public health perspectives, explanations of misunderstandings about tap water and harm to raw water can protect consumers and reduce the spread of infectious diseases.

A short history of public drinking water

Archaeological evidence points out that humans have long relationships. Dirty water with negative health results– If as soon as 1,500 BC Ancient Egyptians Add an active agent to their water to be contaminated together to easily eliminate.

Two important development in the middle of the year 1800 shows why the water is not pure, so it is dangerous. First of all, Doctor John Snow Follow the outbreak of disease. To the contaminated water from the second London Broad Street pump, Louis Pasteur Advanced Theory of germsWhich hypothesized that microbes may cause illness Pasteur is recognized that the liquid that can be consumed, such as raw water and milk can be a germs that cause disease.

These findings paved the way. Large infrastructure project In the 20th century to ensure that public water supply is safe

today Water cleaning process Beginning with the same step used by ancient Egyptians, followed by extensive filters to get rid of scraps, as well as germs and chemicals. chlorine Added to the germs that still kill germs, including that may live in the water pipe that carried water to the tap Beginning in 1940A small amount or Fluoride Was added as an affordable method, safe and effective in improving dental health

Cleanliness and Fluoride of water supply Has decreased dramatically Infectious disease and cavityAnd was announced to be one of the 20th century The greatest public health success–

Is raw water healthier than tap water?

People who are raw water champions Claiming to have health benefitsSuch as necessary minerals and useful bacteria called probiotics that are removed from water supply Try each of these claims.

Water dissolves bit or soil and stone at the origin Therefore, the amount of minerals Depends on local geology– The area with many limestone, such as Mid West has a higher water in calcium The water from deep into the ground may increase the amount of minerals due to more stones to the surface.

The idea that the tap water is gone from the necessary minerals. Not trueBecause these nutrients are too small to be separated from the filtering process The test immediately can determine the amount of minerals in your water, and if you find it lack of supplements, minerals can be added. However, experts suggest that most minerals you want Comes from your food, not water–

Some people claim that raw water Have probiotics That is removed from the water supply The amount of probiotics in the water will vary according to the location and the idea that bacteria that promote health live in raw water. Did not prove the bone–

There is no study that connects raw water that is healthy. Claiming a small matter about smooth skin or increased energy tends to be Drug effects– Even the idea that the taste of black water The desired water supply Above the bottled water in the blind test

Risks or drinking raw water

Raw water is at risk of severe gastrointestinal infections from various pathogens.

Viruses caused by water, including Rota Virus and AnovierWhich is the cause of diarrhea, virus and vomiting quickly and HepatitisLiver infection Bacteria such as E color and SalmonellaOr parasites such as Cryptosporidium and GiardiaIt also causes diarrhea, seven times that can lead to dangerous dehydration. Toxoplasma Gondii It can also be hidden in raw and cans. Causing abortion or defects If consumed during pregnancy

The service provider of diarrhea can send them to others if they swim in the public swimming pool correctly before touched others or preparing the food. Norovirus is especially durable and Can be done Survived on the surface for many daysIncrease the chances of infection.

Raw water can still have Algae that releases toxins Causing abdominal problems and damage to the brain and nervous system

Interpretation, disease, twisting and Typhoid fever is There is no longer a health burden in the United States. Thank you for the strong water treatment system. But the area of ​​the world without this privilege must suffer The death rate of high children and diarrhea is widely.–

How safe is the water supply in the United States?

Water supply in the United States is Among the safest beverages in the world– BIDEN management has proceeded in accordance with the steps to improve, including Capital to replace lead pipes And new Inspection rules Forever chemicals Same as substance Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfruoroalkyll or PFAS, which are linked to cancer and development disorders.

Importantly, raw water does not need to be without Leading, arsenic, insecticides or industrial contaminants– Raw water source Not credible by expertsTherefore, it is difficult to say that anyone has less risks. In addition, the water may be safe one day. But not in again For example,, The soil flows from the storm. Can introduce new germs or pollution in the area

Office of Environmental Protection The screen on a regular basis, nearly 100 contaminants. To make sure that the water supply is safe On the contrary, raw water is still not tested, not controlled and not left for safety in drinking. In terms of risks and benefits, no health benefits from drinking raw water. But there is clear evidence that you may reveal yourself that there are dangerous and poisonous contaminants.

Bill SulvanProfessor or microbiology and immunity Indian University

This article was repeatedly published from dialogue Under the Creative Commons License Original article–