Uncover Hidden Gems in Health and Fitness: Unmissable Resources
Relax and unwind this Friday with the Greatist's weekly roundup of our most popular articles!
Meet Our Expert: Sherry PagotoGet to know this week's Greatist Expert of the Week, Sherry Pagoto. She's an obesity researcher, avid runner, and loving mother, with a passion for helping others lead healthier lives.
Superfood Spotlight: PistachiosLast week's superfood was none other than the humble pistachio. Known for their vibrant green hue, these little snacks are naturally devoid of cholesterol and sodium and packed with fiber and protein.
What's Really in Your Tap Water?Did you know that the water coming from your faucet might contain more than just clean, refreshing hydration? Studies show that pollutants like lead, bacteria, and nitrates regularly find their way into tap water supplies across the nation. Here are some common contaminants often present in our tap water and possible health effects:
- PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances)
- Health risk: Linked to an increased risk of certain cancers, thyroid disease, immune system issues, reproductive health problems, developmental delays in children, and obesity.
- Presence: Found in nearly half of U.S. water supplies due to their use in manufacturing and consumer goods.
- Lead
- Health risk: Can cause kidney problems, high blood pressure, and developmental issues in infants and children.
- Presence: Commonly found in tap water due to old infrastructure and improper disposal of pollutants.
- Nitrates
- Health risk: Can pose a threat to infants, as nitrates are converted to nitrites in the intestines, preventing blood from transporting oxygen. The conversion limits oxygen to the baby's brain and other vital organs.
- Presence: Can enter the water supply through runoff from fertilizers used in agriculture.
- Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
- Health risk: High levels of TDS can lead to hypertension, kidney strain, mineral imbalance, digestive distress, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalance.
- Presence: Comes from both natural sources (rivers, springs, lakes) and human activities (sewage, urban and agricultural runoff, industrial wastewater).
- Cryptosporidium and Other Pathogens
- Health risk: Can cause gastrointestinal diseases, which can be fatal in severe cases.
- Presence: Enters the water supply through human or animal fecal matter.
- Heavy Metals (Arsenic, Mercury, Chromium, Cadmium)
- Health risk: Can cause a variety of health problems, including cancer and neurological issues.
- Presence: Often found in well water due to natural deposits or improper disposal of pollutants.
- Pesticides (Glyphosate)
- Health risk: Linked to potential health problems, including increased cancer risk.
- Presence: Can contaminate well water through agricultural runoff.
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
- Health risk: Can cause a variety of health problems, including increased cancer risk for certain compounds.
- Presence: Often associated with petroleum products like BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene) and MTBE (methyl tert-butyl ether).
Regular water quality testing and monitoring are crucial methods to ensure our tap water remains safe for consumption.
How to Smile More SincerelyGone are the days of faking a smile. Studies prove that putting genuine effort into smiling can improve your mood, convey trust and kindness more effectively, and leave a better impression on others.
Get Moving: Sit-Stand WorkspacesCountless studies herald the benefits of hopping out of that chair and standing up for better health, productivity, and even your back. Embracing a sit-stand workstation might be the change you've been craving.
After learning about the potential contaminants in tap water, prioritizing fitness becomes even more important for maintaining overall health. Regular exercise can help strengthen the immune system and improve overall health. (fitness)
Sherry Pagoto, our Expert of the Week, is not only an obesity researcher but also an avid runner, emphasizing the importance of physical activity in living a healthier life. (fitness)
