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Hydration for Athletic Performance: Beyond the Basics
Hydration for Athletic Performance: Beyond the Basics In the realm of athletic endeavour, hydration transcends mere water intake; it's a pivotal component of performance, recovery, and endurance. Yet, the depth of its influence remains underappreciated. This discourse aims to elucidate the nuances of hydration management, empowering athletes to optimise their physiological potential. The Essence of Hydration Water serves as the cornerstone of cellular function, facilitating metabolic processes, nutrient transport, and thermal regulation. For athletes, the stakes are elevated. Dehydration impairs muscular endurance, diminishes strength, and hinders coordination, casting a shadow over performance. Conversely, optimal hydration catalyses peak physical output, enhancing agility, stamina, and recovery. Electrolytic Equilibrium Electrolytes, the conductive ions facilitating nerve impulses and muscle contractions, demand careful management in the athlete's hydration strategy. Sodium, potassium, and magnesium, lost through perspiration, must be replenished to maintain electrolytic balance, ensuring neuromuscular precision and fluid homeostasis. Pre-Exercise Hydration Tactics Anticipatory hydration, the strategic fluid intake before exertion, primes the body for the forthcoming physical stress. It involves consuming sufficient fluids to ensure hydration at the onset of activity, avoiding the detrimental effects of starting in a deficit. Hydration status can be preliminarily assessed through urine colour, aiming for a pale straw hue as an indicator of proper hydration. Sustaining Hydration Mid-Activity During exercise, maintaining hydration involves more than sipping water; it's an art of balancing fluid intake with loss. Recognising thirst as a delayed signal, athletes should adopt a proactive hydration plan, tailored to the intensity of the activity and environmental conditions. Isotonic sports drinks can offer a dual benefit of fluid and electrolyte replenishment during prolonged or high-intensity sessions. Post-Exercise Rehydration and Recovery Recovery hydration focuses on restoring fluid balance and facilitating muscle repair. This phase not only involves replacing lost fluids but also entails a strategic intake of carbohydrates and proteins, often through recovery beverages, to aid in the repair and replenishment of glycogen and muscle tissue. Athlete-Specific Hydration Considerations Athletes contending with extreme environments or rigorous training schedules face unique hydration challenges. Acclimatisation strategies, individualised hydration plans, and periodic hydration assessments become indispensable tools in their arsenal. Adapting Strategies to Individual Needs It's crucial for athletes to personalise their hydration strategies based on their own sweat rates, exercise intensity, duration, and environmental conditions, consulting with a sports nutritionist or healthcare provider for tailored advice. How does this look for different sports? Here are the consequences of poor hydration in sport: Sport Effect of Dehydration Consequences of Dehydration Remedial Actions for Hydration Endurance Running Decreased stamina and performance Increased risk of heatstroke and muscle cramps Pre-hydrate with electrolyte-enhanced water, sip fluids regularly during runs, rehydrate post-run focusing on electrolyte replacement Cycling Reduced muscle power Higher fatigue levels, potential for dizziness Drink 500ml of water 2 hours before cycling, use hydration packs during cycling, and consume electrolyte-rich fluids post-cycling Swimming Impaired thermoregulation Risk of hypothermia (in cold water) Drink water or sports drinks before and after swimming sessions, even if not feeling thirsty during swim Football (Soccer) Decreased coordination and agility Increased risk of injuries and slower reaction times Hydrate well before the game, take advantage of breaks for sipping water or isotonic drinks, focus on post-game recovery with fluids and snacks high in electrolytes Tennis Compromised concentration Decreased accuracy and service power Ensure regular intake of fluids during breaks, consider wearing hydration packs during practice sessions, prioritise rehydration with electrolyte solutions post-match Golf Cognitive effects impacting focus Poor decision-making and accuracy Hydrate throughout the round, preferably with water or diluted sports drinks, avoid alcohol and caffeine on the course Gymnastics Reduced flexibility and strength Increased risk of falls and injuries Keep a water bottle handy during training, pre-hydrate before sessions, and focus on restoring fluid balance afterwards This conceptual framework provides a starting point for understanding the complex relationship between hydration and athletic performance across different sports. For sport-specific hydration advice, athletes should consult sports nutrition experts and rely on current research from reputable sports science resources. Hydration, with its profound impact on athletic performance, demands a nuanced approach, transcending simplistic water intake guidelines. By mastering the intricacies of hydration management, athletes can unlock their true potential, fostering excellence in performance and resilience in recovery.
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Doulton® Water Filters Steps Up to Help Brixham...
In the face of a recent Cryptosporidium outbreak in Brixham, Doulton® Water Filters has jumped into action to support the local community. Our team headed down to Brixham and handed out free Household Filter Kits (HFK) outside Torbay Fruit Supplies, ensuring residents and business owners continued to have access to safe and clean tap water without needing to boil it. This effort is part of our ongoing mission to make sure everyone has access to safe drinking water. The outbreak has caused a lot of concern, with the government issuing boil water notices to 16,000 properties in Brixham and two people ending up in the hospital. Cryptosporidium can cause nasty symptoms like diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, fever, and loss of appetite, and it can take between two and ten days for symptoms to show up after exposure. We at Doulton® Water Filters who also own the brand British Berkefeld®, based in Stoke-on-Trent, couldn't just stand by. After hearing that Southwest Water (SWW) detected Cryptosporidium in the Alston and Hillhead areas, we knew we had to help. Our Household Filter Kits offered an ideal solution, eliminating the need for residents to boil tap water to ensure its safety for drinking. The response from the community has been incredible. Local resident Morgan Ring shared his gratitude, saying, "I just wanted to say a big thank you, especially to Carl Mitchell, for all the help you’ve given us in Brixham. Your donation of free home filtration kits has been amazing. Many of us had lost faith in Southwest Water’s ability to provide safe drinking water. This home kit gives my family and me the peace of mind that we can drink tap water without worrying about getting sick again." Morgan added, "Being disabled and having two children with special needs, your system has been a lifesaver. I’m even looking into getting one of your stainless-steel filtration systems for long-term peace of mind." Our gesture of goodwill didn’t stop there. We also made sure numerous local care homes like Frensham House had what they needed to give their elderly residents safe water with their medication. Tim Evans, our Global Sales Manager, was there to hand over HFKs to Saluja, the Registered Manager of one care home (as seen in the picture). But that's not all. Our timely intervention has also helped local businesses save their tourist season. With our filter kits ensuring safer drinking water, restaurants, cafes, and other businesses that rely on tourism have been able to keep their doors open and maintain customer confidence and survive. This has been crucial in keeping their local economy afloat during this challenging time. We’re thrilled that our efforts to distribute Household Filter Kits were such a success, showing our commitment to community welfare and public health. At Doulton® and British Berkefeld®, we’re all about providing accessible and effective water filtration solutions, especially when they’re needed most. For more information about Doulton® Water Filters and our products, go to our shop.
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Combat cryptosporidium after the recent outbreak
The recent health advisory in Devon due to a waterborne outbreak highlights the importance of access to safe drinking water. With the detection of cryptosporidium, a parasite causing diarrheal symptoms, residents have been advised to boil water as a precautionary measure. This situation underscores the need for reliable water treatment solutions that can safeguard public health. Understanding Cryptosporidium and Its Impact Cryptosporidium is a microscopic parasite that poses significant risks to water safety and public health. When present in water systems, it can lead to cryptosporidiosis, a condition marked by diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and dehydration. This parasite is notably resilient and can survive outside the human body for long periods, making it a challenging contaminant to manage. The risk is more pronounced in individuals with weakened immune systems, where the symptoms can be severe and prolonged. Understanding the nature of cryptosporidium and its potential for causing widespread health issues underscores the importance of having effective water filtration systems, like those provided by Doulton®, which are designed to reduce the presence of such pathogens effectively, ensuring the safety and well-being of communities. The Role of Doulton® Ceramic Filters Doulton®'s advanced ceramic water filters offer a robust solution in times of water safety concerns. The effectiveness of our filters is evident as they are engineered to reduce harmful pathogens such as cryptosporidium. This capability ensures that even in the face of potential contamination, the integrity of drinking water can be maintained, supporting the well-being of all users. Response and Recommendations In response to the outbreak, it is crucial for residents to follow the guidelines issued by health authorities, including boiling water and using bottled water provided at designated distribution points. For long-term security, investing in a Doulton® water filter provides an additional layer of protection, reducing the dependency on emergency measures. A stark reminder The incident in Devon is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in public water systems and the importance of proactive measures. Doulton® water filters represent a practical and effective solution to ensure the safety and taste of drinking water in any situation By choosing Doulton®, users can trust in a product that combines historical expertise with modern technology to deliver superior water quality consistently.
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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.
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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/
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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