Reverse Osmosis Superstore Blog

How To Avoid Dehydration

2011-01-17T17:30:00.001-08:00

How to avoid dehydration is something that should be considered by most people considering the different active lifestyles that each one has. Dehydration is somehow referred to as an awfully serious condition. It can even become complicated and can cause one to suffer from certain illness when he is unable to find solutions for it. Because of this, you are required to be aware of the different solutions on avoiding dehydration in order to continuously have a normalcy in your life. Your daily living can also be made easier and more convenient if you know some preventive measures for dehydration.

Knowing the possible signs of dehydration is important. Among the major signs of dehydration is the feeling of physical fatigue, dizziness, paleness, extreme feeling of thirst, urine that has a dark yellow color and which occur for less than five times each day. If you know the signs and symptoms of dehydration, then it could be a bit easier for you to stay away from this condition. If you are positive that you experience some of its signs, then it is best that you take action for it to ensure that you get back the normalcy in your life.

Staying in cool places is also an effective solution on how to avoid dehydration. Since weather is considered to be a major factor that triggers the existence of dehydration, then it is best that you stay in places that have cooler atmosphere most of the time. If you encounter too much heat, then there is a tendency for you to be dehydrated and since you cannot control the weather, it is you who should take a step towards staying in cool places to ensure that you are still refreshed. You can visit the mall or you can stay in a room that has an air conditioner. It will help you cool down and relax.

Bring water with you. It is the best answer for the question how to avoid dehydration. Since the lack of water is the main reason why you get dehydrated, then it is important that you always have it with you. You need to constantly bring water with you to ensure that you really consume its required amount. If you fail to bring water, then the best alternative is to drink Gatorade. It is considered to be the best alternative for water as it has high electrolyte and carbohydrate content that help in the prevention of dehydration.

Conserve Water & Reduce Excessive Water Usage At Home

2011-01-17T17:24:00.000-08:00

Water is considered to be one of the most essential requirements to sustain human life. However, one should not only be concerned about keeping the water clean, safe and sanitized but he must also be concerned about the wise use of water. An average family could spend up to 474 dollars every year for water consumption and other sewage charges. Additional cost is added up to it for water heating. To ensure that you save hundreds of dollars for the consumption of water, wise use of it is required. You should protect your health and also protect your savings by making sure that your water consumption does not excessively exceed the normal and common water usage for a household in USA. If you want to make sure that you consume the right amount of water, try following these ideas:

1. Check your water irrigation system and find out if there are leaks. If you want to make sure that you do not go beyond the normal water usage, you have to find out if there are silent leaks in your water system. Leaks, especially in your irrigation system can waste a substantial amount of water. To make sure that you use your water wisely, check your water system regularly for you to immediately find out if there are leakage problems.

2. Consider replacing your old toilet with a model that consumes a maximum of 1.6 gallons per flush. If you are looking for ways to conserve water and save hundreds of dollars for your water consumption, then this step is considered to be viable and effective.

3. Water your plants with the only the right amount of water. Try to conserve water by watering plants basing on the amount of water that they specifically need. You are not advised to squander water by overwatering your plants. An irrigation controller with a shutoff device that is scheduled appropriately is a major help when it comes to this. It reduces the possibility of wasting water for several months when you water plants during rainy season. It will definitely help you conserve and save water.

How Water Filters Work To Eliminate Impurities

2010-12-28T18:01:00.000-08:00

It is very important for our drinking water to be safe and clean. However, before water reaches our home, especially if you are getting water from public supply. Through the process, there is a big possibility that some unhealthy and dangerous components will be combined with the water. You don’t have to worry about that, because there’s a method used to remove this impurities in the water. This is called water purification or water filtration process. The process uses water filters to remove the impure particles and set the water ph level. How filters eliminate impurities in water is a complicated process.

How filters eliminate impurities in water?

Water filtration is divided into different stages and classifications. Most water filtration differs in the kind of process and classification of water contaminants it removes during the process. How filters eliminate impurities in water greatly depends on the water filtration process and the filter equipment it self. For example, reverse osmosis removes impurities in water by using water pressure and selecting what kind of minerals should pass the semi-permeable membrane. It is also known as ultra filtration where in the water impurities are removed according to pore size. In distillation process, unwanted water impurities are removed by boiling killing the germs and bacteria. Talking about water filters means it is all about the units and equipments used in water filtration or water purification. Water filters make use of different kinds of equipments or media to remove or reduce the contaminants from the water, either by physically blocking the contaminants from joining the water or chemically removing them. One of the most commonly used is charcoal. Charcoal is always considered as ash however it does not make the water dirtier. The charcoal used in water purification or filtration process is granulated or in solid form. These granules blocked the large water contaminants and stop them from passing through with the clean water. Modern water filters uses chemical processes to remove other contaminants like chlorine which is difficult to remove using charcoal. The filters used to remove chlorine are carbon-based units that attracts chlorine’s atom to break their connection or bond with the water molecules. How filters eliminate impurities in water in general cannot be the same process.

How filters eliminate impurities in water is really dependent on the kind of water. Not all water filters can remove the same or all kinds of water contaminants at the same. Each water filter, may it be the process or the units are specifically made to remove certain water contaminants. Before deciding on what kind of water filter will you use, you have to know what kind of water supply you have to determine the kinds and classification of water contaminants that are present in it.

Difference Between Distilled & Reverse Osmosis Water

2010-12-28T17:57:00.001-08:00

Reverse osmosis and distillation are the most common and most effective water purification methods. Reverse osmosis is a water purification method wherein all water contaminants that are smaller than water molecules are removed. Distillation on the other hand wherein water contaminants are removed by boiling and the evaporated water is condensed back into a pure water to drink. Distillation is the oldest water purification method. Difference between reverse osmosis water and distilled water is not really obvious for some since they are both purified water. However if you look and study it closely, there is a huge difference between reverse osmosis water and distilled water.

Reverse osmosis and distillation, both are effective ways of water purification or filtration, but what is the real difference between reverse osmosis water and distilled water?

Distilled water is safe to drink but it is usually used for research purposes where the purity level of water is very essential. Some baby milk formulas uses distilled water as the mixing liquid. Pediatric water or the water used for babies during a diarrhea outbreak is also made up of distilled water. Distilled water does not have sodium fluoride like any other kinds of water produced in different water filtration systems. Distilled water has flat taste like those of bottled water. Reverse osmosis water is considered mineral-free water. Reverse osmosis water are free from unwanted odors or odorless and it’s also colorless. Reverse osmosis water does not contain minerals that are dissolved unlike other water produced by different filtration systems. The system of reverse osmosis absorbs toxic chemicals making the water output fit for human consumption. Reverse osmosis water has no sulfates, arsenic, and aluminum. The taste of reverse osmosis water is one of the best attributes of this kind of water. Throughout the process of reverse osmosis, contaminant that makes the water taste unpleasant is removed.

Whether it is reverse osmosis water or distilled water, they will always be safe drinking water. Difference between reverse osmosis water and distilled water does not actually matter since they both offer safe water to drink that gives benefits to the human body. Difference between reverse osmosis water and distilled water are cases which are not always noticed. Generally the only difference between reverse osmosis water and distilled water are the processes wherein the contaminants are removed but in the end, the output is the safe water that everyone wanted.

The Menopause Water Link

2010-12-28T17:54:00.001-08:00

Menopause is a condition that brings a major change of life for women. This is a gradual stop of menses accompanied by a wide array of symptoms. Usually, this occurs around late 40s to early 50s. Menopause does not only signal the onset of the aging process, but it also indicates the halt of a woman’s reproductive capacity. Often, this brings a mix of feelings of worry, insecurity and sadness as thoughts of fading glory pervade the woman. There may be natural remedies to ease the symptoms. Research reveals a connection between water and menopause- a link that will provide relief to the irritated woman.

Menopause women experience changes in their sexual life. The reproductive organs begin to lose lubrication such that the sexual intercourse becomes painful and orgasm becomes harder to achieve. Moreover, sexual drive is reduced as estrogen levels fall down. Episodes of hot flashes or sweating even if the weather is not so hot as well as hot flushes or reddening of the skin indicate start of menopause. There is also a marked change in mood or escalating irritability even on petty situations.

Another significant change notable in menopause women is weight gain. This is due to water retention- a problem that can signal a natural wear and tear of the kidneys, adrenal gland, circulatory system and the heart. This is not really an alarming situation unless pronounced edema is persistent. This may be a sign of an impending problem of the body. For some women, the hormonal changes may cause a significant dehydration. Water and menopause seem to be linked as decreasing estrogen cause elimination of fluids faster than it can be filled of. This can be attributed to symptoms like hot flashes or night sweats.

There are several results of this dehydration. First, there is drying and sagging of the skin. The low water level plus the declining estrogen induce the formation of wrinkles. Furthermore, the thirst center in the brain loses full grip so it cannot detect when the body needs water. Thus, it is advisable to drink plenty of water and not just when one feels thirsty. Menopause women are also very anxious. They often cry or they become very unpredictable. Water is very helpful since it can give a calming effect. Furthermore, cool water will help balance the high temperature inside the body. It can also prevent a night sweat attack by drinking a glass of water at bed time.

Indeed, water and menopause are linked together. The former can help ease the symptoms or the effects of the symptoms of the latter. As such, drinking water must be made a habit by women reaching the age of menopause.

Battling Flu With Water

2010-12-28T17:52:00.000-08:00

Every year, many people from around the globe experience flu. It is composed of several symptoms like cough, colds, fever, soar throat and joint pain. It is primarily viral in origin and it can be passed from one person to another because of air. It is highly contagious since a simple sneeze or face-to-face conversation with an affected person can transmit the millions of virus to anyone. Most of the time, management of the symptoms is easy. One can resort to the many over the counter medications to the older herbal preparations or simply through intensive water therapy and rest. Water and flu are closely related since the former is an effective and very cheap way to halt the symptoms of the latter.

Water intake can clear out impurities in the body through toxin elimination. If there is a sufficient amount of water in the body, more toxins can get out at once. Water can also help thin out secretions like phlegm. As such, it becomes so much easier to cough out the once so thick mucus lodged along the respiratory tract. It can get dissolved if drowned with a lot of water. Moreover, water can aid in mucus production. This can trap pollutants entering the body through the nasal passages.

When one has flu, the body’s processes slow down. As such, it may not be able to sense the body’s depleting water reserve. The result will be dehydration. This resulting condition can further result to fever since the body’s metabolism has to speed up to compensate for the dehydration. Again, water and flu connection exists.

To counter fever, vigorous fluid replacement is necessary to treat the root cause. Those with extremely high body temperature even need to receive intravenous fluids for fast resuscitation. Since influenza may involve sore throat, hot beverage or water preparations can be given to soothe the throat. Gargling with salt water can also ease down the irritation. For nasal congestion due to colds, inhalation is recommended to loosen secretions and make breathing easier

Water is not the only natural remedy for flu. One can also use juice, tea or broth as acceptable remedies. They are also liquid in form and water-based so they can be safely administered. An important consideration would be the utilization of purified water. This can save the patient from incurring more severe diseases like cholera, typhus and dysentery which can bring forth diarrhea and further dehydration. In all these, water and flu are two things that when analyzed correctly, can bring relief to the latter’s symptoms.

Flushing Out Arthritis With Water

2010-12-28T17:50:00.001-08:00

For the aging population, arthritis is a very common disease condition that warrants serious medical attention. There are actually more than a hundred types of arthritis. However, there are three most common types. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint inflammation affecting people in their late 40s to 50s. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that strikes patients aged 25 to 35 years old. This is the early onset type wherein the body’s own antibodies are attacking the joint, bone and cartilage cells leading to loss of cushion and painful grating of bones. The third type is gout. This is a problem in purine metabolism. Purine, a by-product of protein breakdown dislodges or piles in joints or in other body parts leading to joint stiffness, tophi and kidney stones formation. Countering the symptoms is varied. However, triggering the link between water and arthritis can do the trick.

In arthritis, the cushion that prevents the two adjoined bones from gritting gets broken. This can be a product of wear and tear from old age, an antibody attack or deposits of uric acid. Whatever the cause may be, water can definitely act as a lubricant. Somehow, the pain and stiffness can be relieved. Aside from this, toxin deposits such as in gout can be flushed away through the kidneys. Of course, without sufficient fluid, the harmful deposits not just in joints, but also in fingers, toes or ears (tophi) can be eliminated at once. Forming kidney stones can also be dissolved and released out of the body through the urine. As such, by the simple act of drinking potable water, joints can glide freely and smoothly without sacrificing other parts of the body. If water is constantly made available, pain control will not be a problem. Aside from intake, a cold compress can relax tensed joints. Moreover, cold water can also give an analgesic and anesthetic effect.

In terms of prevention, water and arthritis are highly connected. If one has a high protein diet, then flushing out of nitrogen or uric acid is fast. This can prevent accumulation of harmful deposits that can lead to gout. Alcohol intake is another predisposing factor to arthritis development. If water intake is high, alcohol accumulation is unlikely. With sufficient water consumption, dehydration is also prevented giving the body a better control of its metabolic functions.

By simply knowing the water and arthritis connection, one can effectively prevent, manage or control the pain, stiffness and inflammation of arthritis. As such, knowledge can increase awareness and awareness can bring positive change.

A Chef's Surprise - Cooking & Drinking Water

2010-12-28T17:48:00.001-08:00

Water has many uses. It can be utilized as a cleaning agent, as a component in producing different commodities like perfume and soap, as a hygienic instrument, for plant and animal survival, for drinking and as an ingredient in cooking. With the different methods of cooking like boiling, broiling, sautéing, baking and the like, water is an indispensable resource. Water gives body, texture and it allows better incorporation of taste from different ingredients. Just like choosing the best meat, spice or vegetable, it is also necessary to choose the best kind of water. Pure water and cooking go hand in hand in producing the highest quality of food.

Pure or distilled water can actually bring out the full-bodied flavor of every dish. There is also a noticeable improvement in taste and color compared to the use of plain, tap water. The natural flavor comes out without competing with chlorine and other impurities. Moreover, the savory essence of herbs and spices can be totally released in water based sauces and soups. There is also saving in terms of time, energy and cost because impurities prolong the boiling point unlike in the faster process in distilled water.

There are distinct benefits of using pure water in various ingredients. For vegetables, there is less discoloration and taste improvement. Introducing harmful contaminants is also reduced. Cooking pasta is made more perfect because of maintenance of better texture and flavor. The noodles will not cling together compared in tap water. Water is also a better germination for wheat grass, beans and alfafa sprouts. The germination is faster and the crispness can be retained for a longer time. Canning and processing foods is made easier since sealing is easier and spoilage rate is low. The flavor is better and the color is sharper. The ice cubes from pure water is also crystal clear and more appealing. In reconstituting dehydrated foods, distilled water exert more pressure, thus it results in faster rehydration. This is because of the density difference between dehydrated food and distilled versus impure water. In baking, pure water is a better liquefier. Thus, the flavor develops better texture. When using pure water in concentrated drinks, one can add 25 percent more water and still produce a similar delicious blend. With all these, pure water and cooking will have a beneficial connection.

The secret to delicious cooking lies in the cooks’ passion for the craft and the careful selection of ingredients. It is better to be picky than to just mix whatever is available. Pure water and cooking are a perfect match just like an empty stomach and a tasty viand.

Nitrates In Our Drinking Water

2010-12-28T17:46:00.000-08:00

For many years, people have benefitted from nitrates. These substances have been used as lawn and garden fertilizers which provide grasses and shrubs with nutrients necessary for life. Despite this benefit, nitrates have accumulated in the soil and leached through the wells. As a result, possible toxicities ensue. Authorities have expected the penetration of nitrates in our water to shallow wells. However, even the deep wells have already been heavily affected. This finding just shows that nitrate in soil have gone so massive to the point of reaching deeper grounds.

The greater danger comes when the depleted or old wells are not filled or dumped with concrete. The result is an excessive reservoir for run-off ground water. When these old wells fill with surface water, toxic substances from pesticides or agricultural chemicals can get concentrated. Since the well is an underground source of water, the already contaminated water may seep through the soil and reach clean and potable sources of water. This leads to potential water poisoning since the nitrate levels reach toxic levels.

The detrimental effect of nitrates in our water is fatal. Since nitrates can get to the body through water, absorption by the circulatory system is fast. Thus, penetration to the different cells is very easy and seldom irreversible. In a research project, it was found that nitrates can seriously impair the blood’s ability to transport oxygen. When not controlled, the cells in the body will not be able to do their different life functions. The most dangerous part is when oxygen supply to the brain gets cut off by as little as six minutes. Irreversible brain damage can occur which can lead to paralysis or the inability of the breathing muscles to perform its vital function. The internal mechanism is in the combination of nitrate with hemoglobin, the blood’s oxygen carrier. The nitrate will bind strongly to the hemoglobin and prevent oxygen from going to cells.

To prevent this from happening, water can be tested by the County Health Department or an Environmental Protection Agency certified laboratory. If water has been detected, point of use water treatment equipment must be used to lower the nitrate levels into an acceptable range. In some local municipalities, a split stream arrangement is conducted. In this set-up, water is drawn-off and an anionic nitrate removal process is done. This water is mixed with the untreated water in order to induce dilution.

Nitrates in our water may be normal, but it must never reach toxic levels to prevent the detrimental effect from happening.

Iron In Your Water - Natural Phenomenon

2010-12-28T17:43:00.001-08:00

Iron is one of the most plentiful resources of Earth. It has both positive and negative effects to humans. As a clear evidence of its benefit, iron is essential in blood for it carries oxygen in red blood cells. A deficiency of which can lead to anemia. This is a condition that will cause generalized weakness and cell hunger. The negative effect is when iron in water exists in troublesome quantities.

Iron is a natural component of the earth’s crust for at least five percent. It can enter pipelines during rainy days. Iron infiltrates the soil and other geologic formations because of the pressure of rain water. It will then seep through the aquaifers which are the sources of ground water. This is the reason why iron is a common component of drinking water. However, it is very seldom that it reaches greater than 10 milligrams per liter or 10 parts per million concentrations. In cases when it reaches a miniscule amount of 0.3 milligrams per liter, it can already turn water into reddish brown color.

The iron content of water has many effects in the taste of water and in the formation of stains in bathroom or kitchen fixtures. For instance, dissolved ferrous iron will give water a disagreeable taste. Its combination with beverages like tea and coffee will produce a black and inky taste that also has a bad taste. Moreover, vegetables blanched or cooked in water with too much iron content can turn them into dark and unappealing appearance. In terms of the bathroom and kitchen materials, concentrations of at least 0.3 milligrams per liter will turn them into reddish brown in color. This stain is hard to remove. If in case these stains break loose from pipes carrying water to households and establishments, rusty water will flow to faucets. Moreover, if bacteria are also present in water, the bacteria will utilize the iron for them to survive. A result of the reaction is a reddish brown or yellow slime which can clog plumbing fixtures. An offensive odor is also produced. This is noticeable on lid covers of toilet tanks. Iron may also combine with organic materials forming a yellow, brown or colorless stain.

Iron in water is indeed a natural phenomenon. So, to ensure safety, regular checking must be conducted. Local health departments have this service that is also in line with Environmental Protection Agency’s standards.

Testing Your Water For Contaminants

2010-12-28T17:41:00.001-08:00

Water can harbor many different contaminants such as heavy metals, toxic sludge, bacteria, human excreta and the like. These substances can cause different water borne diseases varying from the diarrhea related ones or intoxication with fatal chemicals. In these modern times, the awareness in water safety has prompted the creation of agencies that would ensure water potability. A leader in water safety is the Environmental Protection Agency. This agency sets rules and standards to protect consumers against dirty and poisonous water supply. Every consumer’s question on how to test your water can be seriously addressed.

There are many reasons for testing water. If people have brass fixtures, lead pipes or lead soldered joints, checking for lead content is integral. If water has a strange taste or odor, contaminated must be suspected. If water is hard and leaves soap scum, there may be harmful contaminants in water. The presence of gastrointestinal distress in the family or community warrants testing for colliform. Furthermore, the existence of underground storage tanks, septic tanks or a gas tank needs more checking since incorporation of unwanted impurities is likely. If the house is near a chemical plant, a gas station, dumpsite, junk yard, dry cleaner and mining operation, testing water is important. For consumers about to make a house, checking for the water treatment set-up is vital to know the efficiency or the existing problems in the water system. If the house is next to a livestock facility or a pesticide prone area, there is a good reason to doubt the potability of the water.

The testing can be done by private testing laboratories or state health laboratories. As such, it is necessary to find out if these agencies are certified by the state department of health. The EPA has hotlines to guide consumers in ensuring water safety.

The question for many is how to test your water. At home, one needs home water quality kits, boiled water and a clear drinking glass. First, one must look closely at a glass filled with water in good lighting. One must check for sediments or turbidity and a different smell. The bathroom or kitchen fixture should be checked for a red, green, blue or brown staining. Another way is to buy a home water test instrument which is rather less expensive than laboratory ones.

Indeed, water is life. However, just like anything that goes inside our body, people must ensure the safety of water. There can be a lot of diseases that can cling with it. As such, the question on how to test our water must never be taken for granted.

Clean Water for Fido = Less Visits to the Veterinarian

2010-12-19T16:27:00.000-08:00

With more and more diseases and illnesses coming to light, people are getting more and more meticulous with their health, including going to great lengths to make sure the food they eat and the water they drink is clean and safe. Nowadays, it is considered a great health risk to drink it straight from the tap or any other unfiltered sources.

Sure, people would spend a lot of money to ensure they are drinking clean and pure water, but what about their pets? A lot of households house pets including dogs, cats, hamsters, fish, rabbits, guinea pigs and the like, but while people find it disgusting to drink water straight from the kitchen faucet, some would find it amusing or even cute to find their pets drinking out of ponds, puddles and even toilets. But if humans can get sick this way, it is alarming how some pet owners do not immediately have the same standards for their pets.

Dogs and cats should always have a clean supply readily available to them (preferably matching the quality of what their owners drink), especially the active pets who are more prone to dehydration. This supply should also be replaced and replenished regularly (even if the pet did not empty the bowl), as stagnant water is a good breeding ground for bacteria and other parasites that your cat or dog could ingest. Another thing that some pet owners should regularly and meticulously do is clean the bowl or container to ensure no bad organisms are left. If financially possible, pet owners should invest in special dispensers and pet filters to ensure the health of their cats and dogs.

In the case of caged and aquatic pets like fish and gerbils, it is different because they live where they eat and drink, which also means that they excrete waste where they live, which makes their living environment even more of a health risk. Caged pets should have their food and water changed regularly, regardless of the amount left in the containers. It would also be beneficial to the health of pets if their cages are given a full cleaning at least once a week. As for fish, pet owners should take into consideration the number of fish and the size of the aquarium. A bigger tank and a bigger number of fish would require a better than usual filtration system and more frequent cleaning. It is important to ask your local pet shop or veterinarian what is best for your pets.

Just remember, pets, just like humans, are partially made of water. Ensuring a clean and pure supply to pets will not only save the time, effort and cost of going to the veterinarian, it will also give pet owners more chances to play and enjoy their pets.

Have Clean Water, Will Travel

2010-12-19T16:20:00.000-08:00

Because of the recent consumerism boom all around the world, it has become easier and more affordable for people to travel across the globe to various and exotic destinations. It has now become effortless for people to observe and absorb other people’s cultures because they can actually immerse themselves in their other worlds. One of the most favorite things globetrotters and backpackers do on their travels is to sample the local cuisine. And of course it goes without saying that stuffing oneself means one also has to gulp down a lot of water (especially if the specialty is pepper-based).

But if a person is not careful or meticulous enough, he or she could get sick or have discomfort due to the water he or she drinks. So before you go to any destination, be it local or foreign, it is best to do some research about the place first, to find out how its water situation is. In some countries, clean water is considered a luxury that people might find it necessary to brush their teeth using bottled water.

In most cases bottled is the easiest way to go, as it is your guarantee of safety and cleanliness. However, it should also be noted that in some countries, people use empty bottles, refill them with tap water and pass it off as purified and/or filtered to make more profit. To avoid being duped this way, always check the seal for tampering.

If you really want to be sure, there are even more precautions you can take. If you are planning to travel somewhere close and will only stay for a few days, it could be more convenient to buy a small supply at your local grocery store to last you for your stay. Make sure the containers are clean and leak-free. If this is not possible you can opt to buy bottled fizzy water (in place of normal bottled water) in your destination, and because it is fizzed, you can be assured that what you are drinking is not straight from the tap. You can also purchase a portable filter straw, which is good for filtering up to 500 ml of liquid. But if you really want to be sure, find a way to boil it, as it is the surest way to make sure it is clean.

Wherever you go and whatever you do, remember to stay hydrated, as drinking plenty of clean water will ensure that you can travel for miles on end.

Soda Versus Drinking Water

2010-12-19T16:14:00.000-08:00

Soda Vs Water: The Battle of the beverages

Everyone knows that the best way to keep yourself hydrated is to drink ample amounts of water throughout regular periods of time. But with all the other choices of bottled drinks available for people on the go, it’s easy to just grab anything else off the convenience store shelves or vending machines. One of the most consumed alternatives to water is soda, especially for children and young adults. And with varying flavors and types, it is getting harder for people to choose the healthier drinks over these carbonated refreshments.

That is too bad, as soda can have a lot of negative effects in a human body. Sure it tastes better than water, can seem more refreshing and also has some more mineral content (like sodium and potassium) than water, it still is not a healthy alternative. You can always get sodium and potassium in food with salt, fruits and vegetables. And as countless elementary school science fair experiments have shown, soda has small acid content that can erode tooth, which can eventually lead to tooth decay. This is especially more dangerous in soda-loving children, who are just growing out their teeth.

Other ingredients in most sodas include artificial sweeteners which research has said can cause side effects and health problems. Most sodas also contain varying amounts of caffeine, which if ingested regularly can cause someone to be addicted to it. Another negative effect of ingesting all that caffeine is insomnia, which is pretty hard to get rid of once your body is used to it. Also because of caffeine, sodas are diuretics and can actually make you more dehydrated because they cause you to urinate more than necessary, making you lose more fluids faster than usual. Water on the other hand, is natural and one of the best drinks to hydrate a human body. If you are still not convinced, sodas have been shown to contain loads of calories and can also give people diabetes, osteoporosis and obesity, among other health risks.

Of course, as with anything, moderation is key. You can still enjoy you occasional pop soda, just as long as you also drink a healthy amount of water each day. It is also important in children to break the habit early to prevent addiction.

If you still find yourself having that craving, just remember, 60 to 80 percent of your body is made of water and not soda. Think about that.

Drinking Water & Children

2010-12-19T16:07:00.000-08:00

Water is essential to a child’s proper growth

Like all human beings, drinking safe and clean water is essential to any growing child. Without enough fluids in our bodies, adults will feel tired and under the weather, and the effects are almost immediate. The same goes for children. But while most parents worry about and the drinking quality and ensure that it is covered, some of them totally forget that quantity is also as important, especially in young and very active children. As with everyone else, children get dehydrated if they do not drink enough water throughout the day.

Dehydration is actually even more dangerous and has more impact in children, especially those in school, as it can manifest in tiredness and irritability, which can distract the child, severely diminishing his or her ability to learn and absorb what he or she is being taught. This could also lead to loss of concentration, which could discourage children from participating in learning activities. Parents must teach their children that even if they are not at home, they should still drink and stay hydrated, even if they are not thirsty. Parents should also make it a point to check if their children’s schools have ample supply of clean drinking water and as an extra effort they should also make their children bring their own drinking bottles.

Another reason why parents should foster their children’s habit of drinking water regularly is the active lifestyle that children lead. Children play and exercise a lot, and when they do, they lose fluids that if not replenished could become dangerous to their health. Because children cannot tell by themselves if they are dehydrated it falls on the hands of the parents to make sure their children take a break from playing to replenish themselves. Otherwise, some children will not stop and could literally play and run around until they can’t anymore. Parents must also realize that because children are still growing, their hydration needs are much greater than adults and that they are also more prone to heat strokes.

However, parents must be reminded that fizzy drinks, soda pops and powdered juice drinks are not suitable replacements for water. If a child insists on drinking these types of drinks, water should still be included in his or her diet. But if possible, these types of drinks should be avoided entirely. Here is a tip: You know that saying that children should drink at least eight glasses a day? Well, that saying still holds true.

Water & Your Skin - Healthy, Radiant Skin

2010-12-19T15:48:00.000-08:00

Water works (for your skin!)

In today’s age of physical perfection, a lot of people are concerned with the way they look. Apart from their weight, face and hair, people are concerned with their complexion and how their skin looks and feels. People invest a lot of time, money and effort going to spas and dermatologists to get their skin checked and if possible, improved. At home, women also have medicine cabinets full of various lotions and moisturizes, all to keep their skin glowing and young-looking. Well if you can’t afford all those expensive spa trips and lotions, there are is a cheap and healthy way to nice and radiant skin. Look no further as the answer is readily available in most kitchens: a glass of clean drinking water!

Overall, drinking enough amounts of water a day is good for your body because more than 50 percent of it is made up of H2O. When you don’t get enough fluids in your body, you get dehydrated and it will show with your skin and the rest of your body. On the other hand, when your body is hydrated enough, it shows on your overall health and well being, including your skin. Simply put, there are a lot of direct and indirect benefits water can give to your skin. The good thing about it is, even if you’re drinking all that liquid for your skin, other parts of our body can also reap the rewards.

The main reason is simple. Water in our bodies acts as a purifier, delivering nutrients to different parts and organs, while at the same time also helping remove toxins and wastes. By doing this, it keeps our bodies healthy and moisturized inside and out. Taking enough amounts regularly will also keep the skin hydrated, preventing dry skin from occurring.

While the effects will not happen overnight, other reported benefits include helping keep the skin smooth and preventing acne. Water also stimulates circulation of blood flow to the skin, making it more radiant and effectively speeding up its healing process. Getting enough fluids can also help in building skin elasticity, and some studies have shown that fine lines and wrinkles are more visible in dehydrated skin than in hydrated skin.

So what are you waiting for? Head to your kitchen and get that glass of water! Not only will your skin look better, but the rest of your body will also thank you for it!

Drinking Water & The Elderly

2010-12-19T15:43:00.001-08:00

Why grandma and grandpa should drink more water

As we all know, water is essential to any human being, and it is even more important in frail people like babies, children, pregnant women, and the elderly. As we age, our bodies go through a lot of changes. And because we are not used to all these changes, most of us do not realize when it is time to adapt and change our lifestyle because of these changes.

When people get old, a lot of things happen in their bodies. Elderly people sometimes become less thirsty, and sometimes, the less they drink, the less they become thirsty. Because thirst is an early indicator of dehydration, elderly people sometimes cannot tell if they are indeed in need of water. Sometimes, elderly people can also confuse thirst with hunger. This makes them more prone to dehydration. In fact, some studies have shown that dehydration is one of the most frequent causes of hospitalization among older people.

Most elderly people also experience physiological and hormonal changes in their bodies that can make them dehydrated. Most old people are also on medication or supplements and sometimes these include diuretics that can actually contribute to dehydration because it makes them urinate more, leading to loss of fluids. Increased fiber intake also makes it more important for the elderly to drink more water and stay hydrated. Other inconveniences that can contribute to dehydration are difficulty swallowing and having problems telling their caretakers what they really need.

If kept unchecked, dehydration in the elderly can lead to numerous side effects. Elderly people can get anything mild like confusion, drowsiness, dry skin and migraines and something serious such as labored speech, sunken eyeballs, chronic pain, excess weight gain, slow metabolism, arthritis, hypertension, and worst of all, organ failure. All of these could be prevented or at least be helped by drinking ample amounts of water.

Because elderly people, especially those in care centers, have problems communicating their needs, caregivers should look for dehydration signs like constipation, dry mouth and dark yellow urine. If these signs are apparent, it should be quickly acted upon by giving a glass of water.

Water definitely has a lot of benefits for the elderly, and in even one center they saw that giving their patients more supply and more access to it improved not only their health but their demeanor as well. And don’t we all want our grandmas and grandpas to be happy?

Importance Of Water During Pregnancy

2010-12-19T15:40:00.000-08:00

Pregnant? Start rethinking your water intake

While every person needs a clean and sufficient supply of water in their everyday lives to survive, to some groups of people it is more crucial and essential. One of those groups is pregnant women.

Everyone has heard of the saying that pregnant women “eat for two,” and essentially, they also drink for two. While pregnant women may often find that they crave certain fruit juices, fizzy drinks and even coffee, water should still be part of a their daily diet. Experts say that pregnant women should drink at least six to eight glasses or 46 to 64 ounces every single day.

Why is water so important to expecting mothers? Well, it essentially is a transport system of the nutrients from the mother to the baby. Even if a pregnant woman eats all the healthy food she can, it still is not enough to reach her baby if her body is not hydrated enough.

Pregnancy comes with a lot of health quirks that can be soothed just by staying hydrated and drinking water. For example, it can lessen nausea or morning sickness by a huge deal and more importantly, it can also reduce the chances of getting a urinary tract infection (UTI), which is common in pregnant women. Another inconvenience it can help prevent is constipation. Plus, as an added bonus, it can also lead to healthier skin, giving expecting mothers more of that pregnancy glow.

Believe it or not, keeping her hydration in check can also prevent a pregnant woman from having a miscarriage or even a premature birth. A pregnant women’s hydration needs changes from her usual and in her third trimester, dehydration can lead to early contractions, which in turn can lead to a premature birth! In reality, a lot of premature births could have been prevented if only the mother monitored her regular daily water intake.

Some pregnant women also choose to take exercise classes, which can also diminish their body fluids. This is another great reason why pregnant women should stay hydrated.

However, the quality should also be considered, and not just the quantity. Pregnant women should also make sure that what they are drinking is clean and safe, both for their and their baby’s sake.

Guess what? There’s one more benefit that expectant mothers should also know: The more water you drink when your pregnant, the less will be retained after you give birth, so there’s no need to worry about putting on all those weight!

Weight Loss, Diets, & Water

2010-12-19T15:28:00.000-08:00

Many health condition’s risk and dangers can be minimize by drinking proper amount of water. In fact, water therapy is one of the most suggested ways to improve any health conditions. Water serves as a neutralizing agent that detoxifies and cleanses the human body. Important tips in weight loss and dieting also include drinking at least eight-ten glasses of water everyday. Weight Loss, dieting and water can be very well related with each other.

How are Weight Loss, dieting and water related?

Weight Loss, dieting and water relation with each other is all about the process where you need to burn extra fats. Weight loss dieting can be a very crucial decision for an individual to make. Crucial because he or she has to change his or her eating lifestyle together with adding some sweaty exercise to burn the extra body fats. Weight loss can be defined as to when an individual needs to reduce his or her total body fats through dieting. Dieting is when you decide to forget your daily routines in eating and start a new eating habit that includes eating healthy foods, lowering your calories and sugar intake. One best way to have successful weight loss dieting is to drink plenty of water to speed up the body’s metabolism of fats. Metabolism is when the body starts to convert the food we eat to the energy that our bodies need. Without enough amount of water, the food that is supposed to be converted into energy is converted into fats lurking around the body. Water helps the digestive system function efficiently and quickly. You can start your diet by adding your water intake. Drinking water before meal time can make you feel full, reducing your hunger and making you eat less than your normal food intake.

Weight Loss, dieting and water, all of them can be related to the process inside the human body. It might be difficult for an individual to change his or her eating habits immediately. If you’re one of those people finding it hard to maintain weight loss diet, then maybe you’re forgetting one of the most important element in dieting, the water. Water plays a very important role in the body’s metabolism of fats. Together with proper eating diet and self disciple, you should be able to maintain and keep up with the successful weight loss diet. Keeping your body healthy and sexy at the same time is always better than being sick.

Water Filters - Advantages For Your Family

2010-12-16T18:43:00.000-08:00

According to latest research, drinking water is composed of more than 2000 unsafe chemical components. This only means that the water that people drink everyday can pose potential risks to the human body. Because of this, water filtration in every household is very important. There are numerous benefits of water filters in every home. But their primary function is to get rid of the impurities to make it potable. Through this process, you will be able to enjoy cleaner and better drinking water.

The fact remains that, there are so many benefits of water filters. By having a filtration unit in your home, you will not only be able to eliminate the toxins from your drinking water, but you will also be able to determine, which organism or pollutant is filtered by the device. Secondly, a water purifier is said to be much cheaper as compared to buying bottled water everyday. It also helps minimize the use of plastic bottles, which tends to create more litter if not disposed properly.

Also included in the list of benefits of water filters is the fact that water filtration helps lessen the occurrence of lime scaling. There is no longer any need to worry about lime scale whenever you use drinking water for cleaning or cooking since you can easily avoid this by using the filtration system.

In addition, these filters also play a vital role in keeping you and your family healthy. You can be assured that you are drinking clean water when you have a water filtration device in your home. As a result, you can also be confident that you are protected from the attack of harmful illness-causing pollutants found in drinking water.

There are other benefits of water filters aside from the ones mentioned in this article. The bottom-line is that, if you want to make sure that your drinking water is pure and safe, you must equip your household with a filtration system. This device is proven effective in eradicating chlorine as well as harmful toxins from your tap.

Also, other important factors must be taken in to consideration if you want to get the most out of the your filters. See to it that you buy a filter that is guaranteed to be effective for this purpose. Always check the device before buying or using it. It would be advantageous if you check the label or manual first so that you have an idea on how it works.

Most Polluted Lakes - United States

2010-12-16T18:34:00.000-08:00

Water pollution is considered as one of the worst problems in the world. It simply refers to the contagion of water sources by destructive environmental wastes such as dirt, sewage, and harmful industrial chemical disposals. Most of these pollutants are brought about by industrialization. Sad to say, many water supplies were contaminated by these harmful pollutants. These are also the main causes why marine animals are slowly becoming extinct. It is also the main reason why drinking water these days is not totally safe.

The majority of water pollution causes is attributable to the rise of many industries in the country. Many factories make use of fresh water to dispose industrial wastes and sewage, which is then carried into water sources such as rivers, lakes and oceans. In fact, a recent study revealed that approximately 40% of the most polluted lakes in the United States are not viable for fishing as well as swimming. This only shows that more and more lakes are becoming polluted or dying because of the improper waste disposal of many industries and manufacturing firms all over the country.

Among the most polluted lakes in the USA is the Onondaga Lake, which is found in New York. It claims the top spot for the most polluted lake in the country. The number 2, 3, and 4 spots respectively belong to Kingsport Lake, Cookeville Lake, and Dickson Lake in Tennessee. Other states that have the most polluted lakes are Ohio, Texas, California, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

As the country continues the journey toward progress, the welfare of the environment is being put at high risk. More and more water resources are destroyed. The numbers of the most polluted lakes in the United States also increase in the process.

All in all, water pollution is caused by toxic wastes from people and industrial firms. This is a serious matter that must be given fast resolution. Let us not wait for the number of polluted lakes to increase any further. If this uncontrollable situation continues, there is a big possibility that the future generation will no longer enjoy safe drinking water -- or worst, there will be no more marine animals in the world. Polluted water is not safe for human consumption. It is also hazardous to fish and other forms of marine animals.

Advantages of Soft Water

2010-12-16T18:20:00.000-08:00

Before you can learn the benefits of soft water versus hard water, there are some important things that you have to know. It would be easier to understand if you try to first learn the difference between soft and hard water.

What is soft water? Soft water simply refers to natural water. It is the kind of water, which does not have ample number of dissolved minerals. It has the ability to create numerous soap suds with just a small amount of soap. It also does not produce scales in kettles as well as heaters.

On the other hand, hard water refers to the water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals. But you have to be cautious about this kind of water; this is because it has the tendency to become problematic. While hard water is not considered as harmful, it tends to be displeasing since it has the ability to destroy household appliances.

When you have learned the difference between the two, then you are ready to be in familiar terms with the benefits of soft water versus hard water. The first benefit is on the financial aspect. It is because of the fact that you no longer need to utilize too much water and various cleaning tools to keep your body clean. Save money on detergents, soaps, and cleaning supplies.

The second benefit is concerned with the plumbing system in your house. Soft water makes it easier for you to manage your pipelines. There won’t be a need to repair or replace your home plumbing system from time to time since no clogging occurs.

These are not the only benefits of soft water. Essentially, soft water has the ability to protect your home appliances against any form of damage. In terms of clothing, soft water can also keep your clothes look as good as new. Usually, clothes fade because of certain minerals, which stay on the fabric, thereby causing the color to wane.

Also, one of the advantages of soft water is that it can soften the hair and the skin. Fabrics also become softer since the detergent is totally rinsed out when you use soft water in washing clothes. As a result, you get to have cleaner and longer-lasting fabrics.

In addition, men also enjoy the soft water. This is because men can enjoy smoother skin when shaving even without using a shaving cream.

Bacteria & Your Drinking Water

2010-12-16T17:53:00.000-08:00

There are certain places that have high levels of bacteria in drinking water. And this is a serious matter that people should be aware of. So if you are one of those who are worried about this issue, then this article is for you.

Nowadays, people have learned that their source of drinking water contains many harmful organisms – particularly, bacteria. This is possibly because of too much pollution in the environment. Air and ground pollution are considered to be among the main causes of bacterial contamination in drinking water. In fact, there are several studies, which revealed that the impurities found in drinking water are caused by chemical dumping and inefficient sewage systems. As a result, the drinking water is filled with harmful matter like bacteria, parasites, chemicals and other harmful waterborne organisms.

In order to kill the bacteria in drinking water, some people can use household bleach or chlorine. Although chlorine is considered as a form of poison, it is safe to use for sanitizing the water intended for drinking, cooking and bathing – in the proper proportions. Keep in mind that only a small amount of chlorine is recommended for use in disinfecting drinking water. This is because too much intake of chlorine may put your health at risk. In fact, there are some studies which show that too much chlorine in the body can cause cancer.

For that reason, it is important to ensure that the water you use for drinking and cooking is safe and clean. If you want to protect your family from potential health risks caused by bacteria in drinking water, then you must consider having a water filtration system installed in your home. However, it is also important that you choose the appropriate water filter for your household. The right filter has the ability to remove most pollutant in your drinking water. So to keep your family safe from bacterial contamination, you should start sanitizing your drinking water now.

There are many kinds of water filtration systems for disinfecting the bacteria in drinking water. Choosing the right one will depend on your needs and preferences. So if you want safe water to drink, a filtration system is the best health investment. A water filter is said to be most effective if it can kill about 99% of bacteria in drinking water. The best water filter is one that makes use of the so-called dual filtration process. It does not only take out the bacteria physically, but it also restores the right pH balance of your drinking water.

Alkalinity Of Water

2010-12-16T17:45:00.000-08:00

Remember that pH or acidity is considered as a critical component of water. But the question is how can you determine the alkalinity of water? It can be identified through its level of acidity. If you want to know the pH level of the water, it is important that you are familiar with the amount of free hydrogen ions present in it.

Basically, the pH of water may range from 0 to 14. You can only tell if the water is acidic or not through its pH level. To be able to understand this concept, you must first know the balance between alkaline and acidic. Water’s alkalinity has something to do with its capacity to defuse acid. Usually, the average rate of alkalinity helps neutralize the unpleasant effects of acid. High pH levels of water means that it is acidic. In the case of fresh water, it has moderate pH levels when compared to others. This means that its alkalinity is more balanced than tap water.

On the other hand, water with high levels of alkaline may have a soda-like taste. This is also not a good indication since it has the tendency to make the skin dry. Water with too much alkaline is popularly known as hard water. If you want the water to become alkaline, then you should use carbonated rocks that serve as a key component for the alkalinity of water.

Too much alkalinity is also not ideal. There are lots of ions in the water that is responsible for the buffering solution to become acidic. The buffering solution may also be caused by many ions from carbonated compounds.

There are other factors that influence the pH of water. It is important to understand all of these in order to see the bigger picture; and how this can affect people’s lives and the society in general.

To sum it all up, it is important that you are knowledgeable of the quality of your water. This is of utter significance if you want to ensure that your drinking water is fit for human consumption. One way to make sure that your drinking water is safe all the time, you must install a water filter in your home. This is a great way to examine if your drinking water is good for everyday consumption. What’s more, the right water filter can help you prevent the possibility of illnesses caused by harmful contaminants.

Ground Water Temperature - Affect On Society

2010-12-16T13:54:00.000-08:00

You might be wondering where ground water comes from. Generally speaking, ground water is situated underground in between the cracks and holes in the soil and rocks. It is usually stored in some layers or deposits of soil, sand and rocks. This ground water is also known ad aquifers. It is usually made up of gravel, sand and limestone. These materials are considered as porous for the reason that they contain huge linked holes or gaps that enable the water to pass through.

Before you can tell the temperature of ground water, you need to first learn the significance of ground water and its effect to drinking water. You can find ground water almost everywhere. As a matter of fact, there are many factors that contribute to its existence. When there is heavy rain, there is a tendency for the water levels to go up. On the other hand, the water level goes down when there is intense pumping of ground water resources.

The temperature of ground water is said to be fairly stable whole year round. The ground temperature for a certain place is roughly equivalent to the yearly standard air temperature of that locality. Also, the temperature of groundwater is more constant than the extremely unpredictable air temperature.

Basically, the temperature of ground water is also attributed to other water supplies. Ground water supplies are rejuvenated or refilled by means of rain or melting of snow. There are certain places in the world wherein people encounter severe water shortage problems. This is relevant to the fact that ground water is utilized more than what is required. There are also areas wherein the ground water supplies are contaminated by various harmful pollutants. All these are just some of the things that have a great impact on the overall composition and temperature of ground water.

You must understand that the temperature of ground water may vary depending on its condition. If the ground water is permeable, the contaminants can easily seep through the ground water supplies. Usually, ground water can be contaminated by pesticides, landfills, and septic tanks among many others. Once the ground water becomes polluted, it is no longer safe to use and drink.

Most people in the United States get some of its water supply from ground water -- especially those who are living in remote areas. However, ground water is primarily used to water the crops. In this regard, it is of great importance that you know how pollution affects the temperature of ground water. It does not only destroy the properties of ground water but it also brings great disadvantages to all who need it.