Water is one of the most foundational elements of our well-being. It nourishes every cell, supports detoxification, and serves as the lifeblood of nearly every function in the body. As a naturopath who has spent decades supporting people in reclaiming their health, I can tell you this: when your water is clean and pure, your body has a much easier time thriving. When it is not, we encounter a whole host of preventable problems.
Now, people often ask me, "Dr. Nuzum, is there really anything wrong with drinking tap water?" It is a fair question. After all, if it is coming from the kitchen sink, should it not be safe?
The truth is, while water is meant to be the pure union of hydrogen and oxygen, much of what we find in our municipal supplies has become a cocktail of substances, some natural, others man-made, and many of them not meant to be consumed on a daily basis. These chemicals can quietly place stress on the body, taxing the immune system and contributing to chronic health issues over time.
The Hidden Chemicals in Tap Water
One of the most sobering realities about modern life is that most people are regularly drinking water that contains more than just H2O. While it is true that water naturally contains trace minerals like potassium or magnesium, which can be beneficial, many contaminants found in our municipal water sources are far less benign.
Heavy metals are among the most concerning. Lead, for example, remains a significant risk, especially in older homes and water systems where pipes may be decades old. Even small amounts of lead are dangerous. There is no known safe level. This metal is especially harmful to children, impacting brain development and behavior.
Lead was a large part of the well-publicized water crisis in Flint, Michigan. Unfortunately, that is not an isolated incident. Situations like what happened in Flint have quietly played out in numerous communities for a variety of reasons.
Another common chemical found in our water is arsenic, a poison that occurs naturally in certain areas but becomes far more problematic due to industrial waste and agricultural runoff. Even in small amounts, arsenic can increase the risk of several cancers and harm the nervous system.
Chromium, the chemical made famous by the Erin Brockovich case, also finds its way into drinking water across the country. This form of chromium, called hexavalent chromium, is a known carcinogen. Though it is regulated in a few states, like California, most of the country remains unprotected.
Aluminum, while less toxic in small doses, can also build up in the body, particularly affecting those who are already dealing with neurological issues. In larger concentrations, it may interfere with brain function and memory.
Barium, cadmium, selenium, and uranium all appear in public water. This is not science fiction. These are real substances, sometimes leaching into water through mining, drilling, and refining processes. Many of these metals are toxic to the kidneys, liver, and nervous system, and they can trigger a cascade of health issues when left unchecked.
You don't want any of these heavy metals in your system!
Not All Contaminants Are Industrial
It is not just factories and old pipes that introduce contaminants into water. Substances like nitrates and nitrites often come from fertilizers and animal waste. When these compounds enter the water table, they can affect oxygen delivery in the blood, particularly in infants. Then there is manganese, which the body needs in trace amounts. However, when levels become excessive, it can lead to learning difficulties in children and neurological problems in adults.
Nickel is another naturally occurring metal that becomes harmful when concentrations rise, often due to smelting and industrial runoff. It is notorious for causing skin irritation, allergic reactions, and, with long-term exposure, an increased risk of cancer.
Even copper, which many assume to be harmless, can be problematic in excess, especially for infants who cannot metabolize it efficiently. High levels can damage the liver and gastrointestinal system.
Needless to say, there is a lot lurking in the public drinking water piped to our homes and schools beyond hydrogen and oxygen.
The Fluoride Controversy
Fluoride often sparks debate in both medical and holistic circles. While some communities add it to the water supply to prevent tooth decay, the story does not end there. Fluoride is a highly reactive element that binds with other substances, sometimes creating corrosive or toxic by-products. It has also been shown to enhance the mobility of heavy metals like lead in plumbing, increasing overall exposure. For those with thyroid issues or kidney concerns, fluoride may present added risks.
What Can We Do About It?
The first step toward safer, healthier water is awareness. I always recommend that my patients begin with proper water testing. Whether you live in the city or rely on a private well, knowing exactly what is in your water gives you the information needed to take action.
Once you know your water's profile, choosing the right filtration method becomes much easier. I am a strong advocate of reverse osmosis filtration systems. These systems can remove a wide range of contaminants, including heavy metals, fluoride, nitrates, arsenic, and even newer threats like PFAS chemicals, which have become widespread and are known for their persistence in both the body and the environment.
Carbon filters are also helpful, especially for removing chlorine and certain volatile organic compounds. However, they may not catch everything, so it is important to understand what each filter is certified to remove.
Beyond filtration, addressing the root causes of contamination is essential. If you live in an older home, replacing aging lead or copper pipes may be necessary. I also encourage people to review their local water quality reports, which are available annually and offer insight into what is being monitored and what may be overlooked.
Natural Support for Water Detoxification
When we talk about water safety, we must also consider how to support the body as it processes these exposures. Thankfully, nature provides us with wonderful tools to help detoxify and repair.
Foods like cilantro, garlic, and cruciferous vegetables can aid in the natural chelation of heavy metals. Herbs like milk thistle and burdock root support liver function, while dandelion works wonders on the kidneys. It is also important to replenish essential minerals like magnesium and zinc, which are often lost during filtration or consumed in higher quantities during detox.
Clean Water Should Never Be a Luxury
Clean water should never be a luxury. It is a basic necessity and a cornerstone of true wellness. When your water is pure, your body can focus on healing, repair, and vibrant living rather than battling invisible enemies.
I urge you to take a close look at your water source. Get it tested, invest in quality filtration, and nourish your body with clean hydration and whole foods that support your internal healing systems. Remember, health is not just about what you take out; it is also about what you put in.
If you need guidance on testing kits, selecting a proper filter, or creating a detox plan for heavy metals and chemical exposure, I am here to help.