News
Water: The Ultimate Brain Booster
We delve into the crucial role that hydration plays in enhancing cognitive functions and overall brain health. With the human brain comprising approximately 75% water, its significance in maintaining optimal brain function cannot be overstated. This article explores the intricate relationship between water intake and cognitive abilities, offering insights and practical advice to harness the benefits of hydration for mental clarity, memory, concentration, and mood regulation. The Essence of Hydration in Brain Health Water is fundamental to various physiological processes in the brain, including the support of chemical reactions, the delivery of nutrients, and the removal of toxins. Dehydration, even in mild forms, can impair these processes, leading to decreased cognitive performance, increased perception of task difficulty, mood alterations, and heightened anxiety. The Impact of Dehydration on Cognitive Performance Research has demonstrated that dehydration can significantly affect cognitive functions such as focus, alertness, and short-term memory. For instance, a study in the "Journal of Nutrition" (Armstrong et al., 2012) found that mild dehydration can lead to alterations in mood, increased perception of task difficulty, and significant reductions in concentration and memory performance. Enhancing Cognitive Functions Through Hydration Benefits of Adequate Hydration Improved Concentration and Alertness: Staying well-hydrated enhances the brain's ability to maintain focus and alertness, facilitating better performance in tasks requiring sustained attention. Enhanced Memory Function: Adequate water intake supports memory function, aiding in the consolidation and retrieval of information. Mood Regulation: Hydration has been linked to mood regulation, with proper water intake associated with reduced risk of depression and anxiety. Neuroprotection: Water supports overall brain health and may contribute to the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases by facilitating the removal of toxins and reducing oxidative stress. Practical Hydration Tips for Optimal Brain Function To leverage the cognitive benefits of hydration, it's essential to integrate effective hydration practices into daily routines. Here are some tips to ensure adequate hydration for enhanced brain performance: Monitor Your Intake: Aim for approximately 2-3 liter's of water daily, adjusting based on activity level, climate, and individual needs. Incorporate Water-Rich Foods: Include fruits and vegetables with high water content in your diet, such as cucumbers, celery, oranges, and watermelons. Limit Diuretics: Reduce consumption of caffeine and alcohol, particularly in the hours leading up to bedtime, to prevent dehydration. Use Technology Aids: Consider using apps or smart water bottles that track your water intake and remind you to drink regularly. The relationship between hydration and cognitive function is profound. By understanding the vital role water plays in brain health and adopting practical hydration strategies, individuals can significantly enhance their cognitive abilities, mood, and overall mental performance. Water, indeed, proves to be an indispensable natural resource for boosting brain function and maintaining mental well-being. For those looking to dive deeper into the subject, further reading on the physiological impacts of hydration on the brain and additional hydration tips can be explored in academic journals and health publications.
Learn more
Sleep Hydration: Preparing Your Body for a Restful...
Hydration plays a pivotal role in regulating body temperature and influencing the sleep-wake cycle, directly impacting the quality and duration of sleep. Adequate hydration facilitates efficient body temperature regulation by enabling heat dissipation through perspiration and respiration. This thermoregulatory process is essential for maintaining a stable internal environment conducive to the onset of sleep. Conversely, dehydration can impair the body's ability to regulate temperature, leading to discomfort and difficulties in falling asleep or achieving deep sleep stages. What’s the connection between sleep and hydration? The connection between hydration and sleep extends to the sleep-wake cycle, with dehydration potentially disrupting the body's natural rhythms. Dehydration has been associated with feelings of fatigue, tiredness, and lethargy, making it challenging to stay alert during the day and to transition into restful sleep at night. Symptoms of dehydration, such as dry mouth, headaches, and muscle cramps, can further contribute to sleep disturbances by causing discomfort and wakefulness. Research underscores the bidirectional relationship between sleep and hydration. A study involving over 20,000 American and Chinese adults found that individuals reporting less than six hours of sleep per night exhibited a higher likelihood of inadequate hydration, as indicated by urine samples, compared to those sleeping eight hours or longer. This suggests that not only can dehydration affect sleep quality, but insufficient sleep may also increase the risk of becoming dehydrated. What in the body is affected? The body's production of the hormone vasopressin illustrates the physiological link between sleep and hydration. Vasopressin, which promotes water retention in the kidneys, is released in greater amounts during the late sleep cycle. This mechanism helps prevent dehydration during sleep by reducing urine production and conserving water. However, disruptions in sleep, particularly during the late stages, can interfere with vasopressin release, potentially leading to dehydration. Studies suggest that the timing and quality of sleep are critical for the optimal regulation of hydration status. How can I stay hydrated but not spend all night going to the toilet? To mitigate the impact of hydration on sleep, experts recommend maintaining hydration throughout the day and adopting a balanced approach to fluid intake in the evening. This includes avoiding excessive consumption of diuretics like caffeine and alcohol before bedtime, which can exacerbate dehydration and disrupt sleep. Establishing a comfortable sleep environment and practising good sleep hygiene are also crucial for enhancing sleep quality and preventing dehydration-related sleep disturbances . The intricate relationship between hydration and sleep highlights the importance of adopting comprehensive hydration and sleep strategies to support overall health and well-being. For more detailed insights, further reading is available from trusted sources such as the Sleep Foundation and research published in academic journals, links follow after the overview. Here’s an overview of how to get a great night’s sleep: Strategy Description Implementation Tips Stay Hydrated Proper hydration is essential for good sleep, but timing and balance are key. Ensure you're hydrated throughout the day but reduce intake before bedtime to avoid nocturia. Consider a small glass of water if you wake up thirsty. Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day helps regulate your body's internal clock. Set an alarm for bedtime and waking up, even on weekends, to help reinforce your body's sleep-wake cycle. Create a Restful Environment Your bedroom should be conducive to sleeping, which means quiet, dark, and cool. Use blackout curtains, earplugs, or white noise machines. Keep the room at a comfortable, cool temperature. Limit Exposure to Light Exposure to light in the evening can interfere with your body’s ability to fall asleep. Reduce screen time at least an hour before bed. Use warm, dim lights in the evening. Consider using blue light filters. Exercise Regularly Regular physical activity can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep, but timing is important. Avoid vigorous activity close to bedtime. Opt for relaxing exercises like yoga in the evening if you need to wind down. Mind Your Eating and Drinking Habits Eating big meals, consuming caffeine and alcohol before bed can disrupt sleep. Avoid heavy or large meals within a couple of hours of bedtime. Minimize caffeine and alcohol intake in the evening. Manage Stress Stress and worry can make it difficult to sleep well. Develop a relaxing bedtime routine. Consider techniques such as reading, meditation, or deep breathing to unwind before bed. Evaluate Your Sleep Environment The quality of your mattress and pillows, as well as the arrangement of your bedroom, can impact sleep quality. Ensure your mattress and pillows are comfortable and supportive. The layout of your room should promote a restful atmosphere. Limit Daytime Naps Long naps can interfere with nighttime sleep, especially if you're struggling with insomnia or poor sleep quality. Limit naps to 20-30 minutes earlier in the day. If napping affects your nighttime sleep, consider eliminating them. Seek Professional Help When Needed If you've tried various strategies and still struggle with sleep, it may be time to see a healthcare provider. Keep a sleep diary and bring it to your appointment to help your healthcare provider understand your sleep challenges. Looking for a way to filter water: https://doulton.com/collections/all-products Sources: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/nutrition/hydration-and-sleephttps://sleepopolis.com/education/hydration-and-sleep/ Image:Photo by Andrea Piacquadio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/close-up-photography-of-woman-sleeping-914910/
Learn more
Unlocking the Power of Hydration: 11 Remarkable Health...
In a world filled with trendy beverages and elaborate concoctions, it's easy to overlook one of the simplest and most powerful elixirs for health – filtered water. The benefits of drinking water cannot be overstated, as it plays a pivotal role in maintaining overall well-being. Discover the transformative power of drinking water, we'll explore 11 compelling health benefits to demonstrate how filtered water is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. So, let's dive in, shall we? 1. Enhanced Hydration and Vitality: Water is the essence of life itself, and staying adequately hydrated is crucial for maintaining energy levels and overall vitality. When you drink enough water, your body functions optimally, allowing you to tackle daily challenges with vigour. Our filters are designed to deliver hydration that truly satisfies; water with no taste and odour and tackles many other concerns that you have around water bourne contaminants. 2. Better Digestive Health: Water is essential for digestion, as it helps break down food and absorb nutrients efficiently. Drinking water before or during meals aids in digestion and can alleviate common digestive issues like constipation. With Doulton filters, you’re not just drinking water; you’re nurturing your digestive system with better tasting water. 3. Weight Management: If you're looking to shed some pounds or maintain a healthy weight, water can be your secret weapon. Drinking water before meals can help you feel fuller, reducing the likelihood of overeating. It's not just about quenching thirst but about supporting a balanced lifestyle, something Doulton passionately advocates. 4. Detoxification: Your body relies on water to eliminate waste and toxins through sweat, urine, and bowel movements. Proper hydration ensures your body's natural detoxification processes run smoothly. Doultons innovative filtering process ensures your water is free from impurities, aiding natural detoxification. 5. Glowing Skin / Skin Health: For radiant and youthful skin, water is the ultimate beauty potion. It helps maintain skin's elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and keep blemishes at bay, giving you that enviable glow. 6. Improved Cognitive Function: Dehydration can lead to cognitive impairments like brain fog and difficulty concentrating. Staying hydrated ensures your brain functions at its best, enhancing memory and cognitive performance. Fuel your brain for optimum performance and enjoy better tasting water with Doulton Water Filters. 7. Joint Health: Maintaining joint health is essential for an active life. Water helps lubricate your joints, reducing the risk of joint pain and injuries. If you're physically active, proper hydration is essential to keep your joints in top condition. Let Doultons filtered water be part of your daily routine for better mobility and joint care. 8. Headache Relief: Many headaches are caused by dehydration. The next time you feel a headache coming on, reach for a glass of water before reaching for a pain reliever. 9. Heart Health: Your heart, the symbol of life, thrives on quality hydration. Drinking enough water maintains proper blood volume, making it easier for your heart to pump blood throughout your body. This can help reduce the risk of heart-related issues. 10. Body Temperature Regulation: Stay balanced every season. Water plays a vital role in regulating your body temperature, a fundamental aspect of overall health. 11. Optimise Your Health with Every Sip: Incorporating regular water consumption into your daily routine is a simple yet powerful way to enhance your health and well-being. The benefits of drinking filtered water are not limited to those listed here, but they provide a compelling reason to make hydration a top priority in your life. Remember, staying hydrated is not just a matter of thirst; it's a matter of vitality, longevity, and overall wellness. So, take a sip, raise a glass, and toast to the incredible health benefits of drinking water – the elixir of life itself. Cheers to your health! Join Doulton in celebrating the journey towards better living. Our filters are not just products; they’re your partners in unlocking a healthier more vibrant life. Visit our website to explore how Doulton can elevate your water experience. Click below to shop now and take the first step towards a healthier you! https://doulton.com/collections/all-products
Learn more
The Dangers of Drinking From Plastic Water Bottles
Drinking water is essential to sustain life, and an adequate, safe, and accessible supply must be available to all. Water is the most important component of nutrition, and it plays a vital role in all biochemical reactions, from the digestion, absorption, and transport of nutrients to energy production in the human body9. Given the availability of tap water and bottled water choices, along with numerous health organisations like the NHS advising people to consume a minimum 6 to 8 cups or glasses of fluids daily. If you're eager to learn more about the ideal water intake and the ongoing confusion surrounding it, check out our blog titled 'How much water should you drink a day?' We delve into the public's uncertainty about the appropriate amount of plain water to consume. Now, it's time for you to delve into the potential health hazards associated with plastic water bottles. So, why is drinking from plastic bottles bad? The bottled water industry is mostly proclaimed as having negative human and environmental influences, plastic water bottles bad for your health, and an excess of energy and resources are used in the process of bottles manufacturing1. For a long time, bottled water was only available in glass containers; but nowadays polyethylene terephthalate is widely used for packaging. Polyethylene terephthalate is a type of plastic which is smooth, transparent, and relatively thin. Sadly, polyethylene terephthalate is manufactured for single use only2, therefore reusing plastic bottles is bad for your health. As disposable bottles are used repeatedly, an increased amount of chemicals and toxins seep out from the plastic into the water. This process can lead to the accumulation of harmful substances such as di (2- ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) in your bloodstream, potentially resulting in severe health issues. Additionally, scratches and chips on the soft plastic can create favourable conditions for bacteria to thrive, and the shape of numerous bottle designs poses challenges for effective cleaning. Why are plastic bottles bad for your health? Health scares relating to plastic that have gained significant public attention in news media. These focus on the increasing toxic load on bodies because of chemicals leaching from plastic3. Improper storage of bottled water harms consumers, because elevated temperatures are responsible for the release of antimony from polyethylene terephthalate plastics used for water bottles6. Antimony is a regulated contaminant that can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and even chronic health effects in drinking water7. The researchers also found that the longer the water is stored in plastic bottles, the higher concentration of antimony is leached8. Research by Mason, Welch, and Neratko (2018) examined twenty-seven different lots of bottled water from 11 different brands purchased in 19 locations across nine different countries, they were analysed for microplastic contamination using a Nile Red stain, which adsorbs to polymeric material and fluoresces under specific wavelengths of incident light. Nile Red adsorbs to hydrophobic (“water-fearing”) materials, which are not reasonably expected to be naturally found within bottled water. Of the 259 total bottles analysed, 93% showed signs of microplastics4. Data suggests the contamination is at least partially coming from the packaging and/or the bottling process itself5. Choose Doulton Water Filters for Purer Hydration and Eco-Friendly Living? Discover the exceptional alternatives to plastic water bottles with Doulton Water Filters. Whether you opt for the filtered water gravity system or the convenient undercounter filter with pillar tap, both options are highly effective in purifying tap water by removing impurities. Utilising activated carbon and advanced filtering media, these filters excel at eliminating contaminants such as chlorine, lead, heavy metals, and particles as smaller than microplastic. For a more details on Microplastics, why don’t you have a read of ‘Microplastics in Water’ blog, in this blog we shed light on the detrimental effects of microplastics The National Library of Medicine indicates that Microplastics can vary in size from 1 to 1000 microns. With Doulton Water Filters boasting a filtration rating of 0.5 to 0.9 microns for their filter elements, they excel at capturing particles of even microscopic sizes. For example, in the case of Microplastics at 1 micron, all Doulton filters can efficiently trap particles as small as 0.9 microns. Opting for filtered tap water isn't just beneficial for your health—it's also a win for the environment. Say goodbye to the risks associated with plastic bottles and ensure that every sip you take is safe and clean. Purifying your own tap water is the ultimate way to achieve peace of mind and a reliable source of refreshing hydration. With Doulton Water Filters, you can enjoy pure, great-tasting water while minimising plastic waste. Embrace quality and sustainability by making the smart choice for both your health and the planet. Check out our water solutions now! References: 1. Garfí, M., Cadena, E., Sanchez-Ramos, D., & Ferrer, I. (2016). Life cycle assessment of drinking water: comparing conventional water treatment, reverse osmosis and mineral water in glass and plastic bottles. Journal of cleaner production, 137, 997-1003. 2. Alabi, O. A., Ologbonjaye, K. I., Awosolu, O., & Alalade, O. E. (2019). Public and environmental health effects of plastic wastes disposal: a review. J Toxicol Risk Assess, 5(021), 1-13. 3. Hawkins, Gay (2011). Packaging water: plastic bottles as market and public devices. Economy and Society, 40(4), 534–552. doi:10.1080/03085147.2011.602295 4. Mason, S. A., Welch, V. G., & Neratko, J. (2018). Synthetic polymer contamination in bottled water. Frontiers in chemistry, 407. 5. Mason, S. A., Welch, V. G., & Neratko, J. (2018). Synthetic polymer contamination in bottled water. Frontiers in chemistry, 407. 6. Akhbarizadeh, R., Dobaradaran, S., Schmidt, T. C., Nabipour, I., & Spitz, J. (2020). Worldwide bottled water occurrence of emerging contaminants: a review of the recent scientific literature. Journal of hazardous materials, 392, 122271. 7. Akhbarizadeh, R., Dobaradaran, S., Schmidt, T. C., Nabipour, I., & Spitz, J. (2020). Worldwide bottled water occurrence of emerging contaminants: a review of the recent scientific literature. Journal of hazardous materials, 392, 122271. 8. Akhbarizadeh, R., Dobaradaran, S., Schmidt, T. C., Nabipour, I., & Spitz, J. (2020). Worldwide bottled water occurrence of emerging contaminants: a review of the recent scientific literature. Journal of hazardous materials, 392, 122271. 9. Altın, B., & Aksoy, S. (2022). Is Inadequate Water Intake a Risk Factor for Vestibular Disorders?. J Int Adv Otol, 18(3), 264-268.
Learn more
The Impact of Lead in Drinking Water
The problem of lead content in drinking water stems mainly from human activities. Despite the long-standing knowledge about the detrimental health effects of lead for more than two thousand years, the extensive use of lead in water distribution and plumbing systems continued until relatively recent times, only a few decades ago. According to the Chartered Institute of Water and Environmental Management, Lead pipes are, without a doubt, the most prevalent origin of lead in drinking water. Current estimates suggest that there are around 6.1 to 10.2 million lead service pipes in the United States, which could potentially pose a significant health risk. Similarly, in the United Kingdom, approximately 40% of UK homes (~17 million people) are still supplied by lead pipes1. The presence of lead in tap water uk is primarily due to homeowners' responsibility for the pipes from their property boundary, which may contain lead pipes, solder, or fittings. Water utilities are responsible for the pipes from the treatment works to the property boundary. Without proper treatment, water's corrosive effects on household plumbing systems can result in lead contamination in tap water2. In this blog, we will delve into the detrimental effects of lead contamination in drinking water and provide guidance on the safe levels of lead in drinking water. Understanding these crucial aspects will empower you to make informed decisions about your drinking water. Let us explore the impact of lead in our water supply and take the necessary steps to safeguard our health. Dangers of lead in drinking water Lead, a potent neurotoxin, poses serious health risks even at low exposure levels3. Reports from Southern Water and other water companies indicate that lead in drinking water can jeopardise our well-being, particularly for pregnant women, unborn babies, and young children. As a result, the World Health Organisation acknowledges lead as one of the ten most perilous chemicals with significant implications for public health4. It has also been emphasised as one of the most hazardous environmental toxins5, despite several countries successfully reducing lead exposure through product regulations. Why is lead dangerous in drinking water? The impact of lead exposure on health relies on both the total accumulated dose of lead and the susceptibility of the individual, rather than the environmental sources like food, water, or air in which lead is present6. According to the World Health Organisation, young children are particularly at risk when it comes to the detrimental effect of lead in drinking water. This exposure can result in enduring and serious health problems, especially affecting the development of their brains and nervous systems. Additionally, the symptoms of lead in drinking water can also inflict lasting damage on adults, increasing the risk of high blood pressure and kidney problems. Pregnant women exposed to elevated lead levels face significant risks, such as miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, and low birth weight. Given the toxic effects of lead, it is crucial to prioritise the maintenance of the concentration of lead in drinking water to protect our health and ensure our safety. How to test for lead in drinking water As per the Drinking Water Inspectorate (dwi.gov.uk), in case you suspect the presence of lead pipes in your home, you have the option to request your water company to conduct a water test at your kitchen tap. Upon investigation, if the water company confirms the presence of lead pipes or identifies another source of lead in the plumbing system, they are obliged to furnish you with written guidance on the necessary actions to take. Moreover, the utilisation of point-of-use water treatment devices for filtering tap drinking water has become widely accepted and popular. This trend is primarily driven by concerns about lead contamination arising from service lines and interior plumbing materials within premises. An effective way to ensure you are drinking clean water is by filtering it. While you can purchase bottled water that a company has already filtered, you can also filter water yourself. Doulton Water Filters offers consumers the opportunity to have filtered water that is treated by going through a water filtration system. There are many types of systems and ways to filter water, but they all essentially work to remove contaminants from water in your home. Check out our water solutions now! References 1. Lamb, N. (2020). Taking the lead: an insight into orthophosphoric acid treatment for lead control in the UK drinking water industry. Perspectives in Public Health, 140(3), 133-134.WHO. (2019). Lead poisoning and health. 2. Lamb, N. (2020). Taking the lead: an insight into orthophosphoric acid treatment for lead control in the UK drinking water industry. Perspectives in Public Health, 140(3), 133-134.WHO. (2019). Lead poisoning and health. 3. Bosscher, V., Lytle, D. A., Schock, M. R., Porter, A., & Del Toral, M. (2019). POU water filters effectively reduce lead in drinking water: a demonstration field study in flint, Michigan. Journal of Environmental Science and Health, Part A, 54(5), 484-493. 4. Del Olmo, G., Ahmad, A., Jensen, H., Karunakaran, E., Rosales, E., Calero Preciado, C., ... & Douterelo, I. (2020). Influence of phosphate dosing on biofilms development on lead in chlorinated drinking water bioreactors. npj Biofilms and Microbiomes, 6(1), 43. 5. Bosscher, V., Lytle, D. A., Schock, M. R., Porter, A., & Del Toral, M. (2019). POU water filters effectively reduce lead in drinking water: a demonstration field study in flint, Michigan. Journal of Environmental Science and Health, Part A, 54(5), 484-493. 6. Levallois, P., Barn, P., Valcke, M., Gauvin, D., & Kosatsky, T. (2018). Public health consequences of lead in drinking water. Current environmental health reports, 5, 255-262.
Learn more
Microplastics In Water
Microplastics in water In this blog, we aim to shed light on the detrimental effects of microplastics. Join us as we delve into the profound impact these tiny particles have on the environment and human well-being. By the end of this post, we will equip you with practical tips to eliminate microplastics from your water, ensuring a purer and healthier drinking experience. Discover the hidden dangers of microplastics and take steps towards a cleaner future! Sadly, the escalating presence of plastic pollution within freshwater systems and terrestrial environments poses an imminent threat to both human well-being and ecological stability1. Given the ubiquity of plastics in virtually every facet of human existence, it is inevitable that individuals are consistently subjected to the presence of microplastics in their daily lives2. What are microplastics in water? Microplastics, which are artificial polymers that do not break down naturally and measure less than 5 mm in diameter, pose a significant concern3. Microbeads (<1 mm) are the primary source of particles found in cosmetics and cleaning agents, as well as fiber fragments released during the washing of clothes. Additionally, secondary sources include broken-down plastic litter and debris. The particles in question are predominantly composed of polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate, and various polyesters4. As per Earth.org's findings, the annual influx of plastic waste into the oceans surpasses 8 million tonnes. Microplastics, like all other forms of plastic, endure a decomposition process spanning hundreds or even thousands of years. These minuscule particles pervade every nook and cranny of our surroundings, encompassing the air, soil, and water. Microplastics in drinking water, oceans, polar regions, and freshwater, have been found to harbour substantial quantities of hazardous substances. This pollution has led to the recognition that the ingestion of microplastics through food and water is a major pathway of exposure. These tiny particles have been detected in various samples of commonly consumed seafood, bottled water, tap water, honey, and even salt5. The effect of microplastics in water and aquatic systems has far-reaching negative consequences. This is primarily because once plastics enter the marine environment, they can persist for hundreds and even thousands of years6. In the marine environment, plastic accounts for about 60–80% of marine garbage7. Are there microplastics in tap water? River water is a valuable resource to produce drinking water8. However, the escalating apprehension revolves around the presence of microplastics in drinking water, as their ingestion poses potential health risks to humans. It is crucial not to overlook the fact that microplastics can be found in drinking water. The extent of microplastics in drinking water primarily hinges upon the initial concentrations found in the raw water intake and the specific treatment methods employed in drinking water treatment facilities9. Drinking water treatment processes are essential to ensure adequate water quality, but they are not completely efficient in removing microplastics, as microplastic removal ranges between 70% and 82%10. Currently, there is neither any legislative limit for microplastic content in drinking water nor any treatment technology targeted directly at the removal of microplastics11. Despite common assumptions about the purity of bottled water, you may be asking yourself is bottled water lower in microplastics? Recent research conducted by Cherniak et al. in 2022 reveals an unexpected finding: bottled water could potentially contain higher levels of microplastics12. World Health Organization (2019) has reported there is a growing interest to quantify microplastics occurrence in bottled water worldwide13. Microplastic pollution has become such a global human health concern, since microplastics are emerging pollutants. To raise awareness of the issue, the revised European Drinking Water Directive has plans to include microplastics on “the watch list” of emerging compounds by 202414. How to get rid of microplastics in water. If you're keen to understand how to avoid microplastics in water, it’s time to start filtering your water with Doulton. Doulton Water Filters offer the convenience of drinking clean tap water that rivals the taste of bottled water. Extensive studies on microplastics in drinking water have primarily examined particles ranging from 6.5 to 100 microns in size. However, Doulton Water Filters goes a step further by providing an absolute filtration (defined as >99.99%) rating of 0.9 microns and a nominal filtration (defined as >99.9%) rating of 0.5 to 0.8 microns from your drinking water. This makes them an excellent choice for families seeking reassurance about the quality of their drinking water. While the research findings are undoubtedly concerning, individuals have the power to safeguard themselves and reduce their contribution to single-use plastic waste by opting not to purchase bottled water. Check out our water solutions now! References 1. Sharma, V. K., Ma, X., Lichtfouse, E., & Robert, D. (2022). Nanoplastics are potentially more dangerous than microplastics. Environmental Chemistry Letters, 1-4.2. Kirstein, I. V., Gomiero, A., & Vollertsen, J. (2021). Microplastic pollution in drinking water. Current Opinion in Toxicology, 28, 70-75.3. Dronjak, L., Exposito, N., Rovira, J., Florencio, K., Emiliano, P., Corzo, B., ... & Sierra, J. (2022). Screening of microplastics in water and sludge lines of a drinking water treatment plant in Catalonia, Spain. Water Research, 225, 119185.4. Wu, W. M., Yang, J., & Criddle, C. S. (2017). Microplastics pollution and reduction strategies. Frontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering, 11, 1-4.5. Dronjak, L., Exposito, N., Rovira, J., Florencio, K., Emiliano, P., Corzo, B., ... & Sierra, J. (2022). Screening of microplastics in water and sludge lines of a drinking water treatment plant in Catalonia, Spain. Water Research, 225, 119185.6. Issac, M. N., & Kandasubramanian, B. (2021). Effect of microplastics in water and aquatic systems. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 28, 19544-19562.7. Du, S., Zhu, R., Cai, Y., Xu, N., Yap, P. S., Zhang, Y., ... & Zhang, Y. (2021). Environmental fate and impacts of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems: a review. RSC advances, 11(26), 15762-15784.8. Eerkes-Medrano, D., Leslie, H. A., & Quinn, B. (2019). Microplastics in drinking water: A review and assessment. Current Opinion in Environmental Science & Health, 7, 69-75.9. Dalmau‐Soler, J., Ballesteros‐Cano, R., Ferrer, N., Boleda, M. R., & Lacorte, S. (2022). Microplastics throughout a tap water supply network. Water and Environment Journal, 36(2), 292-298.10. Kirstein, I. V., Hensel, F., Gomiero, A., Iordachescu, L., Vianello, A., Wittgren, H. B., & Vollertsen, J. (2021). Drinking plastics?–Quantification and qualification of microplastics in drinking water distribution systems by µFTIR and Py-GCMS. Water Research, 188, 116519.11. Novotna, K., Cermakova, L., Pivokonska, L., Cajthaml, T., & Pivokonsky, M. (2019). Microplastics in drinking water treatment–current knowledge and research needs. Science of the total environment, 667, 730-740.12. Cherniak, S. L., Almuhtaram, H., McKie, M. J., Hermabessiere, L., Yuan, C., Rochman, C. M., & Andrews, R. C. (2022). Conventional and biological treatment for the removal of microplastics from drinking water. Chemosphere, 288, 132587.13. World Health Organization. (2019). Microplastics in drinking water. Geneva: World Health Organization.14. EU, 2020. Directive (EU) 2020/2184 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2020 on the quality of water intended for human consumption (recast) (Text with EEA relevance). OJ L 435, 1–62 23.12.2020.15. Eerkes-Medrano, D., Leslie, H. A., & Quinn, B. (2019). Microplastics in drinking water: A review and assessment. Current Opinion in Environmental Science & Health, 7, 69-75.
Learn more
Unveiling the Hidden Truth: Discover the Surprising Cost...
The Importance of Water: A Life-Sustaining Resource Water is a crucial resource, indispensable in our everyday lives. The perception of the merits and pitfalls of bottled water vs filtered water constitute one of the more significant issues in domestic water use and management. Health and safety concerns play a significant role in deciding which type of water source will be used as drinking water, since the quality of tap water continues to raise concerns among the public1. Even though tap water is perfectly safe to drink, many are concerned about it is make up or simply prefer better tasting water only achieved with filtration or buying a mineral water. The Hidden Costs of Bottled Water: An Environmental Perspective The global consumption of bottled water has been consistently on the rise, particularly in developed nations where tap water is safe to drink. The steady growth in the bottled water industry owes much to marketing and branding strategies. These strategies leverage the deep-seated cultural connotations of water, such as its representation of natural power, alongside the symbolism of modern technology and the mastery over water through purification systems2. The real cost of bottled water extends beyond just supply costs, such as energy and packaging, which are 240 to 10,000 times pricier per litre than tap water. It also includes environmental costs like plastic waste, much of which ends up in landfills or contributes to oceanic microplastic concentrations. In fact, the environmental toll of bottled water, encompassing energy needs, CO2 emissions, and waste production, is reportedly 100 times greater than that of tap water. Health Risks of Bottled Water: Microplastics and More Moreover, concerns over the environmental and health impacts of bottled water are escalating. A recent study suggested that bottled water consumers could ingest up to 90,000 plastic particles annually, compared to 4,000 for tap water drinkers. The World Health Organisation has even called for further research into this issue. The cost of bottled water does not stop at environmental or health impacts; it also hits consumers' wallets. As per Harvey Water Softeners, the average cost of tap water in the UK is 0.1 pence per litre, whereas a litre of bottled water costs 65p. The profit margins on bottled water are also substantial, ranging from 50% to 200%. The Rise of In-Home Water Treatment Systems: An Alternative to Bottled Water The use of bottled water is not the only alternative for households dissatisfied with the quality and or taste of their tap water. There is a rapidly expanding market for in-home water treatment systems that, using sophisticated technologies, can substantially improve not only the organoleptic properties of household flows, but also their overall quality8. These systems appear as an alternative to bottled water, but may also be convenient for other household uses, such as washing fruit and vegetables, especially in areas with high water hardness9. The reality is that filtered tap water using in-home water treatment systems can be an effective substitute for bottled water consumption. The Financial Benefits of Using Water Filters: A Case Study Allow us to illustrate the extent of your potential savings when you opt for a water filter to fulfil your hydration requirements, rather than needlessly spending money on bottled water. The NHS (National Health Service) recommends that people should drink a minimum of 8 glasses of water per day, and that is just if you are inactive. For a family of four, that is approximately 9 litres a day. However, relying on 12 500ml plastic bottles can be costly. Assuming a case of water costs about £6 (even more for fancy imported brands), at 40 pence per bottle, a family of four would spend: £0.40 x 5.3 bottles/person = £2.13 x 4 people = £8.53 x 365 (days/year) = £3,114.67 Now let us compare that to using the Doulton HIP Biotect Ultra Inline water filter. The Doulton HIP Biotect Ultra Inline water filter is an excellent investment at £175, This price not only covers the pillar tap but also includes a Doulton Biotect Ultra filter which itself is worth £35. It’s a fantastic deal that offers excellent value for money. The only extra expense throughout the 12 months will be for the replacement Biotect Ultra filter. Additionally, buying a couple of £10 water bottles per person would amount to £80 annually. As tap water in the UK costs about 1p per litre according to Harvey Water Softeners, the yearly cost of using a water filter from Doulton for a family of four would be:175 (filter) + £35 (replacement filter) + £80 (water bottles) + £32.85 (3,285 litres tap water) = £322.85 The Doulton HIP Biotect Ultra Inline Water Filter: An Investment Worth Making By switching from bottled water to a tap water using a water filter from Doulton, a family of four can potentially save £2,791.82 per year (£3,114.67 - £322.85). Check out our water solutions now! References: March, H., Garcia, X., Domene, E., & Sauri, D. (2020). Tap water, bottled water, or in-home water treatment systems: Insights on household perceptions and choices. Water, 12(5), 1310. March, H., Garcia, X., Domene, E., & Sauri, D. (2020). Tap water, bottled water, or in-home water treatment systems: Insights on household perceptions and choices. Water, 12(5), 1310. Font-Ribera, L.; Colomer Cotta, J.; Gómez-Gutiérrez, A.; Villanueva, C.M. Trihalomethane concentrations in tap water as determinant of bottled water use in the city of Barcelona. J. Environ. Sci. 2017, 58, 77–82. Avio, C.G.; Gorbi, S.; Regoli, F. Plastics and microplastics in the oceans: From emerging pollutants to emerged threat. Mar. Environ. Res. 2017, 128, 2–11. Parag, Y.; Roberts, J. A battle against the bottles: Building, claiming, and regaining tap-water trustworthiness. Soc. Nat. Resour. 2009, 22, 625–636. Cox, K.D.; Covernton, G.A.; Davies, H.L.; Dower, J.F.; Juanes, F.; Dudas, S.E. Human consumption of Microplastics. Environ. Sci. Technol. 2019, 53, 7068–7074. World Health Organization (WHO). Microplastics in Drinking Water; WHO: Geneva, Switzerland, 2019. Mackey, E.D.; Davis, J.; Boulos, L.; Brown, J.C.; Crozes, G.L. Consumer Perceptions of Tap Water, Bottled Water and Filtration Devices; IWA Publishing: London, UK, 2003. Lanz, B.; Provins, A. The demand for tap water quality: Survey evidence on water hardness and aesthetic quality. Water Resour. Econ. 2016, 16, 52–63.
Learn more
Plastic Bottle Pollution: Why Are They Harmful to...
It is not only our feet which leave a footprint on sandy beaches, but our heavy reliance on plastic materials is also creating a visible yet pervasive “plastic footprint” in the environment. Reducing plastic water bottle pollution and eliminating the dangers of plastic water bottles to the environment is something we can all tackle in our daily lives. We are now going to share with you some interesting plastic bottle pollution facts, and the negative effects of plastic water bottles on the environment. Then we want you to bring to your attention the harmful bit; what happens if plastic pollution continues? So why are plastic bottles bad for the environment? According to CNN.com, the bottled water industry is a juggernaut. More than 1 million bottles of water are sold every minute around the world and the industry shows no sign of slowing down, according to a new report. Global sales of bottled water are expected to nearly double by 2030. Plastics make up to 12% of the global waste stream but poor waste governance and its persistence in the environment leads to significant environmental pollution (1). There is also a growing body of evidence in research suggesting that the presence of plastics in agricultural soils and in aquatic biota poses potential risks to human health via ingestion in food consumed by humans (5). It is also considered a major threat to both wildlife and human wellbeing. The impacts of plastic water bottle pollution is now ubiquitous in the World Ocean, causing an unprecedented environmental crisis, with an estimated 10 million tonnes of litter leaking into the marine environment every year (2). The main contributor is larger plastic litter, including everyday items such as drinks bottles and other types of plastic packaging (3). Plastic pollution threatens global social, environmental, and economic sustainability (4). Many single-use plastic items are difficult to recycle or can only be recycled a few times before they become unsustainable plastic waste which is predicted to reach up to 53 million metric tons annually by 2030 (5). What can you do to help reduce plastic bottle pollution? When your next using a plastic bottle, always remember that only two percent of plastic packaging waste is recycled back into packaging (6). IF JUST ONE IN TEN BRITS REFILLED ONCE A WEEK, WE’D HAVE 340 MILLION LESS PLASTIC BOTTLES A YEAR IN CIRCULATION (7). Check out our water solutions now! REFERENCES 1. Duncan, E. M., Davies, A., Brooks, A., Chowdhury, G. W., Godley, B. J., Jambeck, J., ... & Koldewey, H. (2020). Message in a bottle: Open source technology to track the movement of plastic pollution. PLoS One, 15(12), e0242459. 2. Boucher, J., & Billard, G. (2019). The challenges of measuring plastic pollution. Field Actions Science Reports. The Journal of Field Actions, (Special Issue 19), 68-75. 3. https://www.refill.org.uk/the-problem-with-plastic-3/ 4. Walker, T. R., & Fequet, L. (2023). Current trends of unsustainable plastic production and micro (nano) plastic pollution. TrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry, 116984. 5. Walker, T. R., & Fequet, L. (2023). Current trends of unsustainable plastic production and micro (nano) plastic pollution. TrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry, 116984. 6. Phelan, A. A., Meissner, K., Humphrey, J., & Ross, H. (2022). Plastic pollution and packaging: Corporate commitments and actions from the food and beverage sector. Journal of Cleaner Production, 331, 129827. 7. https://www.refill.org.uk/the-problem-with-plastic-3/
Learn more
What Is The pH of Drinking Water?
Groundwater is the vital resource, necessary for all aspects of mankind and ecosystem survival. Subsequently, drinking water quality is one of the greatest factors affecting human health and is an indispensable resource that humans need to live by. Are you aware of what pH tap water is in the UK? The term pH, potential of hydrogen, refers to a measure of the concentration of hydrogen ion (H+) and hydroxide ion (OH-) in a solution. Although pH usually has no direct impact on consumers, it is one of the most important operational water quality parameters. Careful attention to pH control is necessary at all stages of water treatment to ensure satisfactory water clarification and disinfection. World Health Organisation declares that the pH of water is a measure of the acid–base equilibrium and, in most natural waters, is controlled by the carbon dioxide–bicarbonate–carbonate equilibrium system. In other words, the pH value is used as a standard to measure the properties of water and indicates whether it is acidic or alkaline. What pH should drinking water be and what is a good pH for water? The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 indicating neutral. So, if you’re thirsty and need to quench your thirst, The UK drinking water quality regulations from the Drinking Water Inspectorate (dwi.gov.uk) specify a minimum pH of 6.5 and a maximum pH of 9.0. Any change from these numbers will cause a change in the taste and colour of your water. The best practice is to test the pH of your water every six months so you can enjoy clean and healthy well water every day. If you want to know how to test the pH of water, it’s not really that complicated. There are many types of ready-made pH strips are available on the market with different pH ranges and sensitivities. Check out our water solutions now! References: Fishel, F. M., & Ferrell, J. A. (2016). Water pH and the Effectiveness of Pesticides. US Department of Agriculture. University of Florida IFAS Extention Website: http://edis. ifas. ufl. edu/pi193. https://cdn.who.int/media/docs/default-source/wash-documents/wash-chemicals/ph.pdf?sfvrsn=16b10656_4#:~:text=The%20pH%20of%20most%20drinking,higher%20pH%20in%20limestone%20areas. Drinking Water Inspectorate (dwi.gov.uk)
Learn more