OUR TOXIC DIETS

Is Canola Oil Good For You?

Canola oil, short for "Canada Oil Low Acid" and also known as "rapeseed oil," has become one of the most widely used cooking oils worldwide.

Originally developed as an engine lubricant during World War II. Hmmm.....

it later gained popularity in kitchens and food manufacturing for its high smoke point, versatility, and affordability. Today, canola oil is a staple in cooking and processed foods globally.

Many nutritionists and health authorities consider canola oil a "healthy oil" due to its omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acid content.

However, there is ongoing debate about its true health effects. In this article, we’ll explore canola oil’s impact on the body, whether it may cause inflammation, its genetic modification, and the process by which it’s made.

Be sure to follow the link below to read this full post over on the Epic Water blog page.

Read the full and surprising post here.

Water: How much should you drink every day?

Water is essential to good health. Are you getting enough? These guidelines can help you find out.

By the Mayo Clinic Staff

How much water should you drink each day? It's a simple question with no easy answer.

Studies have produced varying recommendations over the years. But your individual water needs depend on many factors, including your health, how active you are and where you live.

No single formula fits everyone. But knowing more about your body's need for fluids will help you estimate how much water to drink each day.

What are the health benefits of water?

Water is your body's principal chemical component and makes up about 50% to 70% of your body weight. Your body depends on water to survive.

Every cell, tissue and organ in your body needs water to work properly. For example, water:

Gets rid of wastes through urination, perspiration and bowel movements
Keeps your temperature normal
Lubricates and cushions joints
Protects sensitive tissues

Lack of water can lead to dehydration — a condition that occurs when you don't have enough water in your body to carry out normal functions. Even mild dehydration can drain your energy and make you tired.

How much water do you need?

Every day you lose water through your breath, perspiration, urine and bowel movements. For your body to function properly, you must replenish its water supply by consuming beverages and foods that contain water.

So how much fluid does the average, healthy adult living in a temperate climate need? The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine determined that an adequate daily fluid intake is:

About 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids a day for men
About 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids a day for women

These recommendations cover fluids from water, other beverages and food. About 20% of daily fluid intake usually comes from food and the rest from drinks.

What about the advice to drink 8 glasses a day?

You've probably heard the advice to drink eight glasses of water a day. That's easy to remember, and it's a reasonable goal.

Most healthy people can stay hydrated by drinking water and other fluids whenever they feel thirsty. For some people, fewer than eight glasses a day might be enough. But other people might need more.

You might need to modify your total fluid intake based on several factors:

Exercise. If you do any activity that makes you sweat, you need to drink extra water to cover the fluid loss. It's important to drink water before, during and after a workout.
Environment. Hot or humid weather can make you sweat and requires additional fluid. Dehydration also can occur at high altitudes.
Overall health. Your body loses fluids when you have a fever, vomiting or diarrhea. Drink more water or follow a doctor's recommendation to drink oral rehydration solutions. Other conditions that might require increased fluid intake include bladder infections and urinary tract stones.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding. If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, you may need additional fluids to stay hydrated.

Is water the only option for staying hydrated?

No. You don't need to rely only on water to meet your fluid needs. What you eat also provides a significant portion. For example, many fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon and spinach, are almost 100% water by weight.

In addition, beverages such as milk, juice and herbal teas are composed mostly of water. Even caffeinated drinks — such as coffee and soda — can contribute to your daily water intake. But go easy on sugar-sweetened drinks. Regular soda, energy or sports drinks, and other sweet drinks usually contain a lot of added sugar, which may provide more calories than needed.

How do I know if I'm drinking enough?

Your fluid intake is probably adequate if:

You rarely feel thirsty
Your urine is colorless or light yellow

Your doctor or dietitian can help you determine the amount of water that's right for you every day.

To prevent dehydration and make sure your body has the fluids it needs, make water your beverage of choice. It's a good idea to drink a glass of water:

With each meal and between meals
Before, during and after exercise
If you feel thirsty

Should I worry about drinking too much water

Drinking too much water is rarely a problem for healthy, well-nourished adults. Athletes occasionally may drink too much water in an attempt to prevent dehydration during long or intense exercise. When you drink too much water, your kidneys can't get rid of the excess water. The sodium content of your blood becomes diluted. This is called hyponatremia and it can be life-threatening.

Health Effects of Lead in Drinking Water

Study: Breathing in Microplastics Likely Linked to Digestive, Respiratory, and Fertility Issues

By Brian Mastroiann

Microplastics can be found everywhere, from cosmetics to food to textiles.

Environmental Protection Agency. Microplastics research.

And now, a new study found that airborne consumption of these tiny particles of plastic could be causing significant harm to human health.2

The new review of nearly 3,000 studies—published last month in Environmental Science & Technology—offers a comprehensive and troubling snapshot of how these microplastics are impacting digestive, reproductive, and respiratory health.

Specifically, the study’s authors found that there was a suspected link between breathing in microplastics and colon cancer, fertility issues for both men and women, and worsening lung function, raising the risk of lung cancer.

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that range in size from a pencil eraser (5 millimeters) to just one nanometer (a human hair is 80,000 nanometers wide, for scale), according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

These harmful materials are generated by the almost 460 million metric tons of plastic the world produces annually—that number is expected to almost triple by 2060.

This research is a sobering wakeup call, said lead study author Nicholas Chartres, PhD, senior research fellow at the University of Sydney and collaborator at the University of California, San Francisco’s Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment.

There has been a surge of new research on the impacts of microplastics on human health in recent years, and this review essentially “makes sense of it all,” he said.

“We understand there are digestive, respiratory, and reproductive effects [from microplastics],” Chartres told Health. “When we inhale, or consume seafood, or drink water, these microplastics enter our body, our respiratory system, our digestive tract.”

Evidence of Microplastics Harming Health

This new review expands upon a report Chartres and his colleagues contributed to last year that documented the known health effects of microplastics and urged California lawmakers to explore further legislation to protect people from microplastic exposure.

Chartres and his colleagues looked at nearly 3,000 recently published studies that made claims about microplastics’ impact on health.

They took into account each study’s quality of evidence and the overall strength of their findings. A majority of the studies included in the review were done in animals.

Based on the quality of each study, the authors classified connections between airborne microplastic exposure and certain health issues as either “known,” “presumed,” “suspected,” or “not classifiable.”

In the end, they concluded that microplastics are “suspected” of causing harm to people's reproductive, digestive, and respiratory health. They also noted a likely connection to colon cancer.

Though most of the studies were done in animals—particularly rodents—Chartres explained that the findings are still applicable to people, given that humans and animals are both subject to similar exposures, he said.

A large-scale review of this kind is relatively novel, and the findings highlight “the fact that there is some type of almost ubiquitous impact on our health from these [microplastics],” said Mary Johnson, MD, PhD, a research scientist in the department of environmental health at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

“We are just at the tip of the iceberg” in our understanding of how wide-ranging these negative health effects might be, Johnson told Health.

How Do You Become Exposed to Microplastics?

Given how small and common these materials are, it’s not always easy to measure a person’s exposure to microplastics and the varying chemicals that can accompany them, Johnson said.

“Microplastics contain not only plastic polymer itself, but also chemicals that have been added to the plastics,” she explained. “Those probably change the toxicity and the exposure level, but we just are not far enough along in the research to be able to draw conclusions.”

Though measuring exact quantities can be challenging, experts agree microplastics are all around us. They’re used intentionally in cosmetics, packaging, tires, paint, synthetic fabric, and more, but have also been found in human tissue, food, beverages, and the air.

For the purpose of the new review, the authors focused on these airborne particles. Because the particles are airborne, these microplastics are found “in the most remote locations in the world,” Chartres said.

There are a number of ways that these tiny pieces of plastic can become airborne, including from sea spray, textiles sitting in landfills interacting with the wind, degrading tires as people drive, and more.

Wildfire smoke is another common way people breathe in microplastics, Johnson said. As fires tear through towns with modern, pre-fabricated homes, they incinerate and proliferate microplastics into the air.

There are other avenues of exposure, too.

Microplastics are plentiful in our oceans and waterways, contaminating the fish and seafood we consume, said Johnson. We can even come into contact with these particles via skin absorption, she added, though this the least common exposure method.

Are Some People More At Risk Than Others?

Due to the ubiquity of microplastics, all people are at risk, Chartres stressed. Microplastics travel by air, by water, through our food—they’re impossible to avoid.

These materials also “bioaccumulate” once they enter a person’s body, clumping up in tissue and remaining there as time goes on, he said. The amount of microplastics in a person’s body increases the longer they’re exposed.

That being said, certain factors could impact who’s most impacted by microplastic exposure. Some people who are living with various other conditions could be more prone to pulmonary issues or various cancers, for example.

Similarly, social determinants of health can come into play. People with a lower socioeconomic status, those in low- and middle-income countries, and people with certain professions may be more likely to be exposed to airborne pollution or may be more likely to consume foods packaged in plastic, said Chartres. They could see higher exposure levels.

“Socioeconomic factors such as poverty can contribute to greater stresses on the body. They can exacerbate the harms of chemical exposure,” he said. “People who experience multiple extrinsic and intrinsic stresses may have greater harm from exposures to the body [from microplastics].”

Protecting Yourself from Microplastic Exposure

Unfortunately, avoiding microplastics isn’t an easy task. And it’s a difficult conversation to have, said Chartres.

Long-standing damage is done—these materials can’t be removed from our atmosphere, oceans, or soil, and so much of the American food system relies on plastic packaging.

That being said, people can monitor their food sources and try to eat “as much fresh produce as possible,” he recommended.

This review and others like it should be a warning for both regulatory bodies and everyday people, said Chartres.

“We are seeing triple the predicted plastic production in the next 30 years—all that degraded plastics in the environment will be exposed in our air, food, and water,” he explained.

For the average consumer, it’s important to “be more aware of what they are purchasing,” said Johnson.

“One good example is synthetic clothing—I wouldn’t have thought twice about buying synthetic versus cotton earlier,” she said.

“The most important part is getting people engaged to really ask questions, regardless of where you are in the world,” Chartres added.

Governmental action and larger structural changes are also key.

“Ban the use of plastics for nonessential use is one way [to reduce microplastic exposure’],” said Chartres. “Demand that governments examine the data from these studies to [inform] sufficient regulations is another.”

Another avenue, Johnson said, could be legislation that makes non-synthetic textiles and products more affordable and accessible to consumers.

We can’t “turn the tap off” when it comes to plastic production, but the “overwhelming message, globally, is that there is the ability to take timely action now,” said Chartres.

“Successful regulation of industries like tobacco shows that governments will respond when it comes to the relationship between products and chemicals,” he said. “If we don’t respond to this, the consequences in the next 20 to 30 years [are] going to be devastating.”

Learn More About Solutions- Epic Water Filters

From- Aquasana By: Alyssa Scavetta

Lead is a growing water infrastructure concern. Learn more about the health effects of lead.

In Ancient Rome and Western Europe in particular, lead was used in everything from fishing nets, to cosmetics, to plumbing and irrigation.

And throughout history, stories of long-term regional health impacts have followed closely behind its use.

So much so, that some historians even think that lead poisoning played a role in the Fall Of Rome

And while you might be thinking that’s quite the leap to make, those historians might be onto something. Here’s how lead made its way to our own backyards, how it affects your system, and what Aquasana is doing to mitigate this issue.

Lead in the United States

In March of 2016, spurred by the high amounts of lead found in drinking water in Flint, Michigan, a USA Today Network Investigation found that there were, “almost 2,000 additional water systems spanning all 50 states where testing [had] shown excessive levels of lead contamination over the past four years.”

It’s nothing short of an American tragedy, one that is cropping up in more and more cities around the country. But thankfully (and frustratingly), it’s not without a solution.

But first, here’s how it happened in Flint.

In 2011, in an effort to save a penny, the city switched its water source from the Detroit Water Sewage Department the Karegnondi Water Authority.

But before the switch took place, the water would be turned off in the transition period for the entire municipality.

So, city officials switched from Lake Huron to the Flint River as a resource. The result was a flood of phone calls to city hall with reports that the water was smelly, bad tasting, and discolored. When tested, it showed high levels of lead and the known carcinogen, trihalomethanes (THMs).

Even though Flint is still in recovery mode, their experiences have rightfully led to many cities more rigorously testing their water, and likewise, discovering that they, too, are dealing with lead poisoning.

According to Reuters accounts of lead poisoning extend from Warren, Pennsylvania to Goat Island, Texas.

And across the United States, “nearly 3,000 areas with recently recorded lead poisoning rates at least double those in Flint during the peak of that city’s contamination crisis. And more than 1,100 of these communities had a rate of elevated blood tests at least four times higher.”

Additionally, the CDC reports that nearly 2.5 percent of all young children have been exposed to lead.

That’s nearly 4 million households.

The phrase ‘knowledge is power’ has never been truer.

So why is lead so bad when it enters your body?

"Nearly 2.5 percent of all young children have been exposed to lead. That’s nearly 4 million households."

Lead in your system

This isn’t just like eating one bad apple. This is like eating one bad apple, every day, for years, without realizing that it’s making you sick.

And our most vulnerable population? Young children.

In children, according to the Mayo Clinic, lead poisoning can cause developmental delay and learning difficulties, hearing loss, digestive issues, and abdominal pain. According to the CDC, “there are approximately half a million U.S. children ages 1-5 with blood lead levels above 5 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL), the reference level at which CDC recommends public health actions be initiated.”

In pregnant women, it can increase the risk of miscarriage and can also cross the placental barrier, affecting both you and your child at the same time.

In adults, low levels can cause high blood pressure, memory loss, fertility issues, and even mood disorders. In high levels, it can cause anemia, kidney problems, brain damage, and even lead to death.

But let’s take a step back and talk about what lead really is.

Lead (Pb) is a naturally occurring element.

Soft, malleable, and considered to be a heavy metal,

it’s abundant and has many uses.

Although it may be “naturally occurring”, that doesn’t mean it naturally ended up in your drinking water without help.

How it got there

In all honesty, you don’t have to go back as far as Ancient Rome to really understand how lead came to be popularized.

The Industrial Revolution was the first time lead was used at the rate that it was back during the Roman Empire.

It was during that era that it made its way into our world — and our pipes — once again.

The Water Quality Association report that, most often, sources of lead contamination are “lead service lines, lead-containing solder, and brass fittings.”

In layman’s terms?

This means that contamination occurs somewhere between leaving the municipal treatment plant and entering your home.

So what is the government trying to do about it? Legislation in 1986 and in 2011 has banned the use of lead pipes in homes and in plumbing systems, respectively. However, the use of lead before those dates continues to be a problem nationwide, not to mention, homes built after 1986 could still have pipes with lead solder.

While the EPA is working to address the issue of our aging infrastructure, their efforts will take time and require substantial resources.

The Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs Survey identified “a total of $384.2 billion in capital improvement needs over the next 20 years (2011 through 2031),

in addition to the $271 billion in clean water infrastructure investments that will be necessary over the same period of time.”

Most recently, President Elect Trump signed a bipartisan billl that passed the Senate 99-1, called the Water Infrastructure Act of 2018.

According to CNN, this bill works to solve two problems at once: lowering the deficit and working to solve the problem of America’s aging infrastructure as it authorizes funds for future projects, expands water storage capacity, and allows for upgrades to wastewater, drinking and irrigation systems. It will do this with the goal of turning, “$200 billion in federal money into $1.5 trillion for fixing America’s infrastructure by leveraging local and state tax dollars and private investment.”

But as the Government works to make money moves, many Americans are still at risk of lead poisoning. Whether your home was built before 1986, or water runs through lead-contaminated pipes on its way from the treatment plant to your home, you’re still at risk.

Get the lead out

Municipalities often send out notices regarding drinking water when the public needs to take precaution.

Take it seriously.

Save the notice and don’t be afraid to call with follow-up questions.

Sometimes water suppliers have reason to play down the seriousness of contamination issues.

Don’t let complicated wording stop you from knowing the truth. If questions about the notice still linger, take the time to follow up.

Don’t wait to find out.

Look for your water supplier’s Consumer Confidence Reports online, or call and request a copy.

Check water quality by accessing the "Environmental Working Group's' database.

Water quality tests also exist – it’s as simple as sending out a sample to find out.

One of the best ways to remove lead from water is to filter it.

Though this is something we say often at Aquasana – not all filters are created equal. When it comes to buying a filter, according to CNN, “caution is in order, as not all filtering systems on the market block lead.

The NSF lists ratings on three types: reverse osmosis, filter systems, and distillation.

It warns that many popular pitcher-type filters don’t meet today’s standards for lead reduction, although they may filter other contaminants.”

Several Aquasana drinking systems have always reduced lead from drinking water – more than 99%; that’s not breaking news.

That just a part of our mission: to give you healthy, clean delicious water.

Our SmartFlow® Reverse Osmosis, for example, WQA tested and certified to NSF/ANSI Standards 42, 53, 58, and 401 to reduce lead, as well as 89 other harmful contaminants.

And now, our first-of-its-kind OptimH2O® Whole House filter, is IAPMO tested to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 to shield your whole house from lead, for clean, healthy water from every single tap in your home.

The system is also tested and certified to reduce 99% of lead and cysts, 98% of PFOA/PFOS, and also tackle 90% of chlorine and chloramines.

For a substance that is tasteless, colorless, and odorless, and with an aging water infrastructure that’s compounding on the problem, it’s more important now than ever to invest in a water filter.

Find Out More

Common Bacteria, Viruses, and Parasites Found in Drinking Water

From-Aquasana and Alyssa Scavetta

When you think of possible contaminants in your drinking water it’s likely that bacteria and parasites like E. coli or giardia aren’t the first things to come to mind.

However, both of these microorganisms are commonly found in drinking water and, among others, are monitored by the EPA through

our National Primary Drink Water Regulations.

According to the book Waterborne Pathogens,

Detection Methods and Applications, “waterborne pathogens can be divided into three

main categories; viruses, bacteria, and parasites.”

If untreated in our drinking water, these pathogens present health risks to the people and animals who consume them.

So, here are the symptoms you need to look out for when it comes to the most common bacteria, viruses, and parasites found in drinking water, and what to do in the case of an outbreak in your area.

Be sure to follow the link to read the full post over on the

Aquasana blog page, if you dare....

You are what you eat, but you are also what you drink.

From- Dr. Derek Murphy and RKIN Water Systems

Thank you for taking your time to read my article.

My name is Dr. Derek Murphy, and I am a physician.

I am a firm believer in a more holistic and natural approach to having a quality of life. If you are on this page, you have either done your research or on the fence if reverse osmosis is right for you.

I want to give you the same information I provide my patients to help you make a better-informed choice.

Your body is around 60% water. Water is essential for keeping the natural physiological processes in the body functioning correctly. This includes proper cellular function along with removing toxins and metabolic waste from the body. The quote is “you are what you eat,” but you are also what you drink, and the quality of the water you drink will have a significant impact on your health. Substances like fluoride, heavy metals, pesticides, trace pharmaceutical drugs, and many others in the water will impact your health. And going back if you are 60% water, then it would be safe to say you could potentially accumulate the most toxins in this area of your body.

Some of the health issues that have been linked to poor drinking water are thyroid dysfunctions, headaches, sterility, increased risks for cancers, and many other health problems. I am going to recommend to you as I do with all my patients to research some of the things in your water that impact your health.

A lot of my patients who have changed their drinking water have said they have noticed improvements in their life. They have experienced greater mental clarity and less frequent headaches. Their energy levels have increased.

If there is one thing, I tell my patients if nothing else the best benefit of reverse osmosis is the removal of fluoride from their drinking water. Charcoal filters, bottled filters, and most other types of filters except reverse osmosis cannot remove fluoride. Fluoride is not healthy for consumption in pretty much any quantity and is one of the most toxic substances you drink daily. If you do not believe me next time, pick up your toothpaste look at the back. The toothpaste label will instruct you to contact poison control if you consume too much of the toothpaste. But fluoride is in your drinking water daily, and you have no clue how much you drink. A concept I instruct my patients is that just because you do not feel the effects immediately after consuming a toxin does not mean that there is a lack of health detriments. Your body will have health issues being exposed to a toxin daily over months and years of.

Some of the questions I get from my patients are as follows:

Question: I already have a charcoal filter doesn’t that already filter out everything?

Answer: No. Ideal drinking water is between 0-50 parts per millions of solutes (PPM) in the water. Most drinking water from your faucet can range from 200 parts per million to even as high as 500 parts per million of solutes. I recommend my patients to buy a water quality tester to measure the parts per million in the water and a pH meter to test the acidity of the water. I have not had a patient report to me yet that their charcoal filter has ever gone below 150 parts per million and a lot of them barely see much of a drop in the part per million using other types of filters. The difference with reverse osmosis systems is that they can get to the 0-50 parts per million. The other issue can also rise with reverse osmosis is reaching the parts per million too low as well. If the parts per million of drinking water is too little, it can also mineral scavenge in the body. I recommend to my patients if they are to buy a system try to buy one that replaces minerals like calcium, magnesium and other minerals. This will help replenish the minerals which are beneficial for the body and does not allow for leaching of minerals from the body.

Question: Does the pH of the water really mean much?

Answer: Yes. The ideal pH of the body is around 7.4 pH.

This pH is the proper cellular environment for the body to complete its physiological processes. I have had patients reports to me their drinking water can range into the 5.6's for pH. Even some bottled waters can be in the 6s for pH. The pH scale ranges between 1-14 pH. The closer you get to one the more acidic the water and the closer to 14 you get the more alkaline. This scale works on a logarithmic scale which means a 1 point change is multiplied by 10. For example, going from a pH from 6 to 5 means the water is 10 times more acidic. So if your water is a 5 and your body pH is over a 7, then the water you are drinking is 100 times more acidic than your pH. Keeping fluids close to your body’s pH is more natural and helps with keeping the physiological functions workings more efficient.

Question: How long will it take to feel differently?

Answer: This varies person to person. Toxins from the water can accumulate in the body and can take some time before these are removed. Some of my patients have told me it takes a few weeks, but again results vary.

Question: Which reverse osmosis system would I recommend to patients or do I personally use?

Answer: I personally use ZIP countertop reverse osmosis water filter every day and recommend it for the majority of patients who look for a reverse osmosis system. These are the reasons why I recommend this system:

1. It is, in my opinion, the most cost-effective way for clean drinking water. Most people spend 1-3 dollars a day on bottled water. Doing the math that is between $365-$1095 a year if they are drinking bottled water. This also does not provide enough water if you wish to cook food or make teas. Having reverse osmosis for your cooking water and beverages prevents those impurities from going into what you eat and drink.

Also if you are looking at more traditional models which go under the sink, a decent system usually starts at $500 without installation or models making a whole house or condo RO will easily cost thousands of dollars. The ZIP reverse osmosis system is not only the cheapest of these options but also it does not require a plumber to install, and the maintenance costs are low. Also for some of you buying water bottles now, it could potentially save you money over long-term use. Saving my patients money is a priority to me, and I would not give them advice I would not do myself.

2. The system is portable. A lot of my patients live in apartments or in some type of housing that does not allow for modifications to their plumbing for the under sink system. Also if you need to move, you can just pick the system up and take it with you with ease.

3. As previously stated, you want a system that replenishes minerals and has the proper pH in the water. ZIP provides that out of the box.

With this system, I also recommend having a separate BPA free container that you can store a few gallons of water. This way you can either keep it cold in the refrigerator for drinking or have enough for your cooking water or beverages.

Learn More About Zip Countertop Water Filters

Healthy Water Resources and Filtration

Aquasana- Home Water Filter Systems

Here are key benefits of an Aquasana whole home water filter system:

Reduce contaminants in your water
Get healthier skin and hair
Improve the flavor and quality of your food and drinks
Provide healthier water for your pets and plants
Enjoy brighter, longer-lasting clothes by removing chlorine
Breathe easier by removing chemicals that evaporate in steam

Up to 45% off sitewide.

AquaBliss SF500 Rejuvia Universal Multi-Stage Shower Head Filter- $39.95

From -Filters Fast

#1 Online filtration retailer in the US!

Delivers impeccable purity at every water temperature, filtering your water through multiple stages to reduce chlorine, dirt, bad odors, sediment, pharmaceuticals, pesticides and other harmful toxins in your water, while inhibiting scale buildup from touching your body.

More details

Waterdrop- Home Water Filtration

Waterdrop RO G3P800! With 9 layers of filtration, our water purifier effectively filters harmful substances such as vinyl chloride, fluorine, and other heavy metals, so you can enjoy clean and safe drinking water.

Our water purifier has obtained the NSF/ANSI Standard 58 for TDS reduction and NSF 372 certification, ensuring that you get t

Our water purifier has obtained the NSF/ANSI Standard 58 for TDS reduction and NSF 372 certification, ensuring that you get the best quality water possible. And with its advanced technology, it only takes 6s to fill a glass of water, making it the perfect choice for busy households.

Invest in the health of your family with the Waterdrop RO G3P800. Get yours today and experience the difference in taste and quality!

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Check out their Reverse Osmosis Systems here.

Clatterans Water Filters

Clatterans is dedicated to helping families live easy and healthy. At Clatterans, you’ll find everything you need to purify the water and air of your home or workplace, including refrigerator water filters, air filters, faucet filters, shower filters and varieties of practical home appliances for a hassle-free and happy life.

Our team kn

Our team knows that everything we do is important and can make a difference in our own lives and those of our customers. It’s upon the steadfast mindset that drives us to higher levels of innovation and performance.

Healthy living and overall well-being can’t be separated from a clean environment. Our sole focus is providing best-in-class water filtration products so each family can enjoy great-tasting, fresh, healthy water indoors and outdoors.

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Find the best refrigerator water filters here

The Complete Guide to Using Healthy Cookware

From:Xtrema Cookware

Cooking balanced, nutritious meals for yourself and your family shows how much you care.

Bonding with your family and creating lasting memories around the table starts with choosing quality cookware. Unfortunately, using pots and pans that release heavy metals and toxic chemicals into your food could counter all your efforts to eat a healthy diet.

Aluminum, PFAS , and Teflon are harmful toxins commonly found in cookware.

It's best to steer clear of nonstick, coated pans and other products that are more likely to contain these dangerous materials. But how can you know what is safe to use?

Learn everything you need to know about nontoxic cookware in this guide.

Types of Nontoxic Cookware Materials

Switching to nontoxic cookware can create a safer and healthier environment for you and your family.

Only use cookware made from the following materials to limit your exposure to harmful toxins.

Ceramic: Ceramic pots and pans are naturally nonstick and easy to clean. The best nontoxic cookware brands, like Xtrema Cookware, don't use a metal base — they are 100% ceramic. That means there's no risk of toxicants or metals leaching into your food.
Stainless steel: On the more affordable end of the kitchenware spectrum, stainless steel is another safe material that's durable enough for pots and pans. This corrosion-resistant alloy is practical for various nontoxic cooking utensils, though you must always preheat this kind of cookware, and it's not stick-proof.
Tempered glass: Glass is also a nontoxic and nonstick material that's easy to clean and oven-safe. You can watch your food cook through transparent cookware to ensure nothing burns or sticks.
Cast iron: While trace amounts of iron may leach into foods during cooking, cast iron is generally one of the safest metals for cookware. Moreover, some studies found using cast-iron cookware may even benefit iron-deficient people, though research on this topic is scant.

While all these materials are safe options, always read the manufacturer's description to understand everything they use to make their pots and pans. Sometimes, marketing may claim a product is "green" despite containing harmful toxins in its coatings or base.

How to Choose Nontoxic Cookware

When choosing a safe cookware material, you must consider the pros and cons associated with each type.

While stainless steel is affordable and easy to use, it's not stick-proof and can be tricky to clean.
Cast iron is an exceptionally safe material, though it can be challenging to keep clean.
Tempered glass is naturally nonstick and makes cleanup a breeze, but it is not the most durable material and can shatter on the stove.
Pure ceramic cookware may be the perfect fit for you and your kitchen. It checks all the boxes for safety and longevity. It is also scratch-proof and versatile enough to use almost anywhere.

Xtrema Cookware's Ceramic Collection

Xtrema Cookware's ceramic collection has no metal core and zero toxins. Our pots and pans are entirely leach-free and safe to put on the grill, in the oven, in your microwave, dishwasher and even on a campfire.

Ceramic Cookware Sets

Our versatile, nontoxic cookware sets include the top-selling Versa Pan that allows you to fry, sauté, braise, boil and sear ingredients into delightful meals. These sets are perfect for everyday use because they include all the essentials. Invest in a 12-piece Versa set or our smaller five-piece starter set that comes with a 1.5-quart stock pot and lid, the seven-inch Signature Skillet and a two-piece potholder set.

Signature Skillets

Every kitchen needs at least one skillet. These pans have shallow side walls that make it easy to sear, sauté and fry your favorite healthy ingredients. Our Signature Skillets are available in five different sizes, and we also offer skillet sets and mini-skillets to add to your kitchenware collection.

Ceramic Sauté Pans and Saucepans

Its reliable, nonstick nature makes ceramic the most practical material for skillets, sauté pans and saucepans. You don't need to grease your ceramic pans with oil or butter, though you can if you want to add extra flavor. Our ceramic sauté pans and slick saucepans are available in a few different sizes, so you can prepare rice, pasta, grains, mouthwatering sauces and so much more.

Dutch Ovens

Slow-cooked stews, chili and rich soups taste best when prepared in the right pot. Our large ceramic Dutch ovens are perfect for these hearty meals. Dutch ovens are also excellent for baking and roasting large, meaty cuts, making them a versatile investment for your kitchen.

How to Clean Ceramic Cookware

Keeping ceramic cookware cean is effortless. While Xtrema Cookware is dishwasher-safe, hand-washing is the best way to remove grease and grime that dishwashers sometimes can't. Use your favorite cleaning product, from eco-friendly mixtures like vinegar and baking soda to standard dishwashing liquid or a soft scrub. You can confidently use scrub pads for extra stubborn spots because our ceramic pots and pans are scratch-proof.

For tough stains and burned-on food, add soap and hot water to the pot or pan and let it soak. If this method doesn't remove the stuck-on food, put the pot or pan on low heat and use a spatula to scrape the residue off once the water begins to boil.

If you want to replace your cookware set or add to your kitchenware collection, visit Xtrema Cookware to browse our range of 100% pure ceramic pots and pans.

Find an heirloom Dutch oven to prepare hearty meals, buy the perfect stick-proof skillet or maximize your value with one of our sets.

We make all our ceramic cookware, bakeware and teakettles to last. But because we know accidents happen, our Forever Replacement program ensures your first replacement is free.

After that, we offer a 30% discount.

Our selection of ceramic cookware is a durable investment in your family's health and a symbol of your commitment to cooking healthy, nutritious meals.

Shop Xtrema Cookware's Range of Healthy Cookware

How Water Filters Help the Environment

Provided by Aquasana- Home Water Filter Systems

Over the last few decades, plastic water bottles have become one of the most common ways for people to get access to clean water. While the surge of water bottle usage has helped to increase water consumption, the discarded bottles wreak havoc on the environment. According to an article by the Peace Corps, it takes a plastic water bottle 450 years to decompose. What’s worse, many of these plastic bottles don’t end up in a recycling facility, or even a landfill, but instead, end up as litter in our greenspaces and waterways. Plastic water bottles then break down into microplastic particles that pollute the water and our bodies, with the average person ingesting thousands of bits of plastic every year.

So, how do we reconcile wanting to drink more water, but also wanting to protect the environment, and by extension of that, our personal health?

Aquasana’s water filter products cater to both of these needs by providing access to clean, healthy water without the need to generate unsustainable plastic waste. When looking for a water filter brand, make sure that they’re using eco-friendly water filters. By reducing the amount of disposable plastic water bottles used and utilizing Earth-friendly water filters and replacements like Aquasana’s, you can have a positive impact on our health and the planet’s well-being.

In 2019, Aquasana water filtration technology displaced more than 1.2 billion single-use plastic bottles of water in North America! Read more in AO Smith’s 2020 Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability Report.

Now that we better understand the relationship between our health, drinking water, and protecting the environment, let’s further explore the benefits of using a water filter to accomplish these goals.

Reduce Waste with Water Filters

Most of us know the adage “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle”; the “reduce” comes first for a reason. While both reusing and recycling are good ways to be environmentally-conscious, reducing is the best way to help our environment because it stops waste before it occurs. Water filters can help us to reduce using single-use items like plastic bottles, mitigate wear and tear on appliances, and curtail fossil fuel consumption.

Reduce Single-Use Water Bottle Consumption

One of the most direct and obvious benefits of using a water filter is the reduction or elimination of single-use plastic water bottles. Plastic waste has been shown to be harmful to the environment and our health. Plastic waste does not decompose quickly. Instead, it breaks down into dangerous microplastic particles. Microplastics are difficult to track and can easily make their way into our water and food.

In total, humans throw away roughly four million tons of trash every day with about 12.8 percent of that waste being plastic.

One of the biggest advantages of plastic water bottles is that they’re convenient and provide clean water. Water filters are the perfect solution for people interested in cutting down on plastic waste because they provide easily accessible clean water. By combining a water filtration setup like a whole house system, under sink filter, or countertop filter with a reusable water bottle, you can have clean, fresh water in every part of your home and when you’re on the go. For the ultimate travel option, filtered water bottles give you the ability to filter water from any potable source, like a public drinking fountain or break room sink. Ideally, look for a filtered water bottle that's made of metal or glass, further reducing plastic waste.

Water filtration products allow customers to “bottle their own” drinking water, which drastically reduces their plastic waste compared to single-use plastic water bottles. For example, one Aquasana Claryum® 2-Stage under sink water filter lasts six months and can avoid the use of 3,700 16.9-ounce plastic water bottles.

The Future of Filtered Water

In our latest consumer survey, we also found that using a reusable water bottle is more important to younger generations (Gen Z and Millennials), with Gen Z leading the charge. In fact, more than two-thirds of Gen Zers (69%) have purchased a reusable water bottle in the last year because they’re environmentally sustainable, and they’re 27% more likely than other generations to purchase a reusable water bottle because of the environment (69% vs. 54%). This tells us reducing the use of single-use water bottles will become even more important and mainstream in the future.

Water Filters Protect Appliances

Water filters don’t just help the environment by reducing the need for single-use plastics, they can also have long-term benefits like protecting your appliances. Water filters can remove sediment that would otherwise damage or slow down appliances that use water like dishwashers, refrigerators, hot water tanks, and washing machines.

By reducing particle buildup you can maintain an appliance’s energy efficiency. Buildup from unfiltered water can slow down an appliance and cause it to use more energy. Saving on energy is not only good for your electricity and gas bills, it also helps the environment by reducing the pollution from energy generation.

Maintaining appliance efficiency with a water filter can also help to prolong an appliance’s lifespan. Modern appliances utilize a fair amount of plastic and metal. When an appliance needs to be replaced, that plastic and metal is often discarded. While some of the parts may end up being reused or recycled, much of the discarded plastic and metal often ends up in a landfill.

By protecting your appliances, especially with a water filter, you can save money, time, and help the environment.

Water Filters Reduce Fossil Fuel Consumption

So, now that we better understand that water filters can mitigate the need to purchase new appliances and eliminate the need for single-use plastic bottles, we can connect the dots to how this impacts fossil fuel consumption.

Plastic is made from fossil fuels oil and natural gas. The less plastic that we need to produce, the less reliant we are on fossil fuels. This helps alleviate our carbon footprint and reduce harmful byproducts that come from the plastic manufacturing process.

In fact, 14% of the national total of toxic releases came from plastic manufacturing. Significant releases of toxic chemicals include:

trichloroethane
acetone
methylene chloride
methyl ethyl ketone
styrene
toluene
benzene
1,1,1 trichloroethane

By utilizing eco-friendly products like modern water filters, we can help to reduce plastic manufacturing, greenhouse gas emissions, and dangerous chemical byproducts.

How to Choose an Eco-Friendly Water Filter

One of the first questions that people ask about using water filters to help the environment is, “What about the filters? Don’t those get thrown away too?” This is an important question and something that we should all consider when looking for clean water options.

Be sure to look for a water filter product that utilizes eco-friendly water filter replacements. For instance, Aquasana products are created with the environment in mind. Our water filter components are engineered for minimal waste including their reusable outer filter casings and filter cartridges made of recyclable parts and compostable materials.

Now that we know more about eco-friendly filters, the next step is to find a water filter system that can meet all of our needs. Let’s break down the different water filter setups to get a better understanding of which product to choose:

Whole House Water Filters

A whole house water filter is the ultimate solution for clean drinking water in your home. These water filters are installed where water enters your home, so that every drop of water that flows through your pipes, out of your faucets, and into your appliances is filtered. A downside to this set is a higher upfront cost and you can’t easily take your system with you, though it’s easy enough to fill up a reusable water bottle for when you’re out and about.

Under Sink Water Filters

Under sink water filters are a great middle-ground option for your home or business. They don’t provide filtered water to your entire home, like a whole house system, but they do offer the same clean, fresh water to a single faucet. Like whole house systems, they’re conveniently tucked away, not taking up countertop space or diminishing your room’s aesthetics. They’re also significantly less expensive than a whole house system and are easy to install.

These systems allow people to effectively “bottle their own” drinking water, which drastically reduces their plastic waste compared to single-use plastic water bottles. For instance, the Claryum® 3-Stage Max Flow’s filter lasts for six months and can eliminate the need of 6,050 16.9-ounce plastic water bottles.

Countertop Water Filters

Countertop water filters come in a few varieties: water filters with pitchers, countertop dispensers, and faucet attach countertop filters. These filters fall within most household budgets and require little to no installation, but can have a big impact on reducing your single-use plastic consumption. For example, one of Aquasana’s Claryum® Countertop water filter cartridges can filter 450 gallons of water and keep more than 3,400 plastic water bottles out of the landfill.

Shower Water Filters

Shower water filters are perfect for people that deal with issues like chlorine-heavy municipal water or that don’t want to invest in a whole house system. They’re easy to install and can even come with an integrated shower wand. Try combining a shower filter with an under sink or counter filter to get many of the benefits of a whole house system, at a fraction of the price.

Filtered Water Bottles

Our recent survey found that more than half of Americans (55%) have purchased a reusable water bottle in the last year because they are environmentally sustainable. But not all reusable water bottles are created equally.

Regardless of whether you have a whole house system or a countertop water filter, filtered water bottles are a great addition to any filtered water strategy or as a standalone option. If you’ve ever been reluctant to drink from a water fountain or a tap, these water bottles are the perfect solution for safe water drinking on the go.

Improve your Health, Improve the Planet

We only have one planet and it’s our responsibility to protect our environment, if not for future generations, at the very least for our own health. Water preservation, eco-friendly practices, and waste mitigation are essential to maintaining the balance. Luckily, we can all play a part by utilizing products like water filters to not only enrich our lives, but work towards a better future. If you’re ready to invest in your well-being and help protect the environment with an eco-friendly water filter, we invite you to shop our products and find the perfect water filter solution today!

Aquasana Home Water Filter Systems

Minerals In Your Water

Know Your Water

Minerals play a vital role in various bodily functions, including nerve transmission, muscle contraction, and enzyme activity. When consumed through water, minerals such as zinc, iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium contribute to the overall mineral balance in our bodies. Calcium promotes strong bones and teeth, while magnesium supports muscle and nerve function. Iron aids in the production of red blood cells, carrying oxygen throughout the body. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance. Zinc is crucial for immune system function and wound healing. By ensuring an adequate intake of mineral-rich water, we can support essential bodily processes and promote overall well-being.

Solid carbon block water filters are highly effective in removing harmful contaminants from drinking water while preserving essential minerals. Our filters use a dense, porous carbon structure to trap impurities while leaving healthy minerals in your water.

The carbon block acts as a physical barrier, adsorbing these contaminants and preventing them from passing through. Simultaneously, the porous nature of the block allows for the passage of healthy minerals like calcium, zinc, magnesium, and potassium, ensuring they remain present in the filtered water. This process of selective filtration enables us to enjoy clean and safe drinking water that is free from harmful substances while retaining the beneficial minerals necessary for our overall health.

Furnished by Epic Water Filters

Air Filtration Tips

How Often Should You Change Your Filter?

From- Filters Fast

As homeowners, HVAC maintenance is often the most overlooked. Ordering filter replacements and replacing filters regularly is not at the top of our to-do list. Out of sight, out of mind, right?

What if we told you there was an easier way? Read on to find out.

What is an air filter?

Furnace filter, HVAC air filter, AC filter, AC air filter, air purifier filter—they’re all the same thing. These nifty little devices help protect your HVAC system and keep the air quality in your home healthy for you and your family. Neglecting to change them can lead to costly repairs and health effects.

Order Replacement Furnace Filters

What do air filters do?

For lack of a better word, air filters filter the air in your home. They help keep your heating and cooling system running smoothly and improve indoor air quality throughout your home. They may also impact the energy efficiency of your systems. Depending on the air filter you use, it can capture pollen, dust mites, plant spores, mold spores, auto emissions, pet dander, tobacco smoke, bacteria, virus carriers, and more.

How many air filters do I have?

Typically, there is an air filter for every level of your home, but there might only be one for smaller homes.

Where are air filters located?

Air filters are commonly located in the furnace or a return in the ceiling or wall. If you have a wall-mounted unit, they could be located on the front panel. If you’re unsure where your filter is located, it’s a good idea to inspect every possible area or consult your owner’s manual.

When should I change my air filter?

There are many different types of filters, and recommendations vary. First, consider the depth of your filter.

For fiberglass filters, change them every 30 days.
Change 1-inch pleated air filters every 1-3 months or 30 to 90 days.
Pleated filters with a 2-inch depth, replacing them every 4-6 months is recommended.
Pleated 4-inch depth filters should be replaced every 6-12 months.
For pleated 5-inch filters, replacing them every 9-12 months will suffice.

Other factors to consider are:

The number of people living in your home
The number of pets in your home
Other air quality factors in your home
- Do you cook a lot?
- Does someone smoke?
- Do you or other people living in your home have asthma or allergies?
- Is someone sick?
- Is your home older?
- Seasonal change

According to the National Air Filtration Association (NAFA), filters should be visually inspected monthly and changed based on manufacturer recommendations or, at minimum, twice a year at the beginning of heating and cooling cycles. As a rule of thumb, filters should be changed more frequently due to outdoor air conditions or particulate loads in the air.

What happens if I don’t change my air filter?

Several things can happen if you do not change your filter. Here are a few possibilities:

The air in your home can become stagnate.
It can cause bad odors.
It can make you sick.
Damage to your HVAC, furnace, and/or air conditioner.
High energy bill.

Possible Solutions

Regardless of what filter you use, changing your filter regularly is most important.

It is ultimately up to you how often you replace your filters, but it is essential to consider the impact of not changing them. Here are a few solutions to help you stay on top of this chore.

Sign up for an Air Filter Subscription Service

Signing up for a filter subscription is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to stay on top of making sure you’re changing your filter when you should be. As a bonus, having to remember what size filter you need is done for you. The only thing you’ll have to do is find your filter one time, figure out how often you’ll want them sent to you, and select Subscribe & Save. But wait, there’s more! Filters Fast offers up to 10% off and FREE shipping on every subscription order. It’s a no-brainer – you’ll never have to remember to order your filters and save money! What are you waiting for?

Filter Reminders

Are you not a fan of signing up for a subscription? Product Reminders will do the trick! There are two ways to sign up for reminders with Filters Fast!

When you check out at FiltersFast.com, you will automatically be enrolled to receive product reminders for the filters you order.
Log in to Your Account
- Find Product Reminders on the menu
- Find the product(s) you want reminders for
- Select the “Reminder Frequency” from the drop-down, and it will automatically save.
- Check your email for your reminders

Buy in Bulk

Bulk buying is best if you want to save money without the commitment. Although buying in bulk has a higher upfront cost, the per filter cost is much lower than purchasing a one-off filter. Think about it—when you buy filters in a six-pack, you’ll have filters on hand, so you can change your filter when you need to. Our Filters Fast® Brand filters are made in the United States and are available in a convenient pack of six. Learn more about our brand.

Pro tip: Store your filters near where you need to change them, and set a reminder on your phone to go off every 30-60 days. When you get the reminder, all you’ll have to do is grab a filter from the box and change it.

Getting low on replacement filters? Reordering is easy at Filters Fast.

The Future of Filter Changes is in Your Hands

It’s simple—change your filter, change your life. No matter how you choose to keep up with filter maintenance, Filters Fast is here to help you get your filters and make filter changes as easy as possible.

Learn More

Air Filtration and Purification

Air Filters Delivered

Our approach is simple, make quality products at accessible prices. We believe clean, healthy indoor air is a must in every home or place of business... but it shouldn’t come at a premium cost.

Since our start in 2010, we’ve worked to deliver quality filtration products directly to your home or business - at a fair price. We avoid added expenses like wholesaling, retail store-fronts and licensing deals to pass those savings directly on to you.

Our emphasis is on service and quality materials. We manufacture our own products from our very own state-of-the-art facilities across the United States and proudly serve consumers and businesses of all sizes. We stock all standard sizes and can custom-make and ship any other size in 5 days or less. Give us a try – we are here to help!

Air Filters Delivered

Dyson Purifier Hot+CoolGen1 machine purifying fan heater

Automatically senses, captures and traps pollutants. For cleaner air.

Heats or cools you³
Whole-room purification⁸
Removes 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns

Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool™ Gen1 machine purifying fan heater

Microplastics: An Emerging Concern and How to Reduce Them

From-Filters Fast

What are Microplastics?

The ocean is vast, with chasms as deep as the earth’s mountains are high. Over the course of the years, modern civilization has unfortunately decided to use this as a place to dump plastic waste. Things we don’t think about as we throw away, like plastic bottles, straws, cutlery, bags, and even cigarette butts, are decomposing in the ocean.

As a result, tiny plastic particles, known as microplastics, have compromised our aquatic resources. Not only are they a hazard to humans, but they also pose a threat to animal life.

How can Microplastics Harm Humans?

Microplastics are a relatively new concern, so it’s not fully known how much of an effect they can have on humans. However, given our knowledge of the human body, there are some theoretical ways they can harm.

Because they consist of plastic material, these contaminants contain chemicals that could potentially cause cancer, like neurotoxicants and carcinogens. Additionally, they can affect the intestines, liver, kidneys, and lungs. Cardiovascular issues have also been linked to microplastics.

How can Microplastics Harm Pets?

As previously mentioned, this contaminant can also affect all animals, from tiny organisms to large ones, birds, insects, and even whales. The number one issue is ingestion.

If consumed, this pollutant can trigger internal damage, endangering your four-legged friend’s digestive system by causing irritation and bleeding. Your pet may also have a false feeling of being full, which could result in starvation.

Plus, the waste product can also affect reproductive tissues, making reproduction problematic. These are all things to remember if you own any type of pet.

How to Detect Microplastics in My Drinking Water?

Now that we know what microplastics are and how they can adversely affect us, you should determine whether they are in your drinking water. Staying true to the definition of “micro,” these particles can be incredibly tiny and invisible to the naked eye.

Currently, there aren’t any home tests, like strips, that can detect this contaminant. You’ll need a sample of your water examined by a certified laboratory.

Can You Use Water Filtration to Get Rid of Microplastics?

If the lab results indicate that microplastics are in your water, you’d want to reduce them next. For those familiar with water filtration, it may seem like an answer to your problem, and you’re correct! Water filtration systems are an excellent solution since they effectively remove pollutants from water, including microplastics.

If you do not currently have a filtration system in your home, you need to determine whether you require it to be a point-of-use or point-of-entry system. The difference between these two is simply convenience.

A point of entry would be your choice if you’d like your system to cover your whole household—any bathrooms, kitchens, and appliances that use water. However, a point-of-use water filter system should suffice if your concern is simply the kitchen faucet.

A reverse osmosis system is the best water filtration system for removing the contaminant. These systems can remove particles as small as 0.001 microns, totally eliminating the issue.

What are the Best Filters to Remove Microplastics?

The important thing is to ensure your that the filter can remove contaminants as small as 2.5 microns since that is the smallest the contaminant is known to be.

RO systems are a great investment but may be outside your budget. Fortunately, other more economical options are available. When searching for the correct filters in these categories, it is important to ensure the filter has a micron rating below 2.5 microns.

Because of their unique design, active carbon filters are an excellent choice for removing microplastics. The filters utilize their porous structure and adsorption to tie down the contaminants as the water flows through. Think of the carbon as a magnet that pulls microplastics towards it.

Ceramic water filters contain millions of micropores within the casing specifically structured to capture pollutants. Larger microplastics will be captured without issue, but dissolved contaminants can be problematic.

Don’t Forget to Replace Your Water Filters!

Having a water filtration system to remove microplastics is fantastic, but to ensure continued safety, you’ll need to replace the filter in your system. You might ask, “Why?” The answer is simple. As time goes by, your filter will eventually become worn down. If you neglect the task, it will eventually become clogged with contaminants—including the main pollutant of concern.

The frequency at which you need to replace your filters depends on the type of filter, your water quality, and how much you use your system.

For most RO systems, you’ll need to replace the RO filter annually. However, most reverse osmosis systems come with other types of filters, including a pre-filter, a carbon filter, and an RO membrane. Those have their own intervals, with a pre-filter/carbon filter requiring a replacement every six months and the membrane around every two years.

Activated carbon and ceramic water filters need to be replaced every six months. Doing so guarantees amazing water quality and that it is free of any concerning contamination.

Life moves quickly, and believe us, we understand! Utilizing an auto-delivery program like our Home Filter Club can provide the assistance you never knew you needed. We enjoy taking the worry out of your day and delivering just in time. Simply choose Subscribe and Save on checkout, select your delivery interval, and we’ve got the rest!

Neutralizing The Concern of Microplastics

Although the emergence of the microplastic issue is concerning, fortunately, there are ways to prepare. Knowing is half the battle, so arm yourself by keeping updated on the topic. As your number-one resource for all things filtration, we at FiltersFast.com will do our best to keep you informed. Performing a test will let you know if your water quality has been compromised and if it has, you have plenty of water filtration options to ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones.

Healthy Water

Water Quality In My Area

Provided by Epic Water Filters

Trying to find out the tap water quality in your area? Here is how to do it.In the United States, tap water is generally of high quality (compared to other parts of the world) and is subject to strict regulations to ensure its safety.

The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) is the primary federal law that regulates the quality of public drinking water in the United States. The SDWA requires public water systems to meet certain standards for the levels of various contaminants that are allowed in the water, and requires utilities to regularly test and report on the quality of their water.

Despite these regulations, it is not uncommon for tap water in the United States to contain impurities or contaminants that can affect its taste, odor, or appearance. This why we are often asked, how is the water quality in my area?

Some common sources of contaminants in tap water include naturally occurring minerals, agricultural and industrial runoff, and treatment chemicals. The quality of tap water can vary depending on a number of factors, including the source of the water, the treatment methods used, and the presence of contaminants or impurities in the water. In general, tap water in the United States and other developed countries is subject to strict regulations and is required to meet certain standards for safety and quality.

However, it is not uncommon for tap water to contain impurities or contaminants that can affect its taste, odor, or appearance. If you are concerned about the quality of your tap water, there are a few steps you can take to find out more information:

1. Visit the non-profit Environmental Working Group's tap water database and enter your zip code. This will give you a good idea if you should be concerned at contaminant levels in your water. (ewg.org)

2. Check your local Consumer Confidence Reports or Water Quality Reports: Many water utilities publish annual water quality reports that provide information about the sources of your drinking water and the levels of various contaminants that have been detected in the water. These reports are often available on the utility's website or by request. Most water utilities call these reports water quality reports but we have seen some refer to them as consumer confidence reports.

3. Test your water: You can have your water tested by a certified laboratory to determine the levels of various contaminants in your water. Some local health departments or environmental agencies may offer free or low-cost water testing services. Contact your local water utility: If you have questions about the water quality in your area, you can contact your local water utility for more information. They should be able to provide you with information about the sources of your drinking water and any potential contaminants that may be present in the water.

Learn More

If you find that your tap water contains contaminants or impurities that are of concern to you, you may want to consider using a water filter or other treatment device to improve the quality of your drinking water.

There are many different types of water filters and treatment systems available, and the best option for you will depend on the specific impurities or contaminants that you are concerned about and the desired level of water purification.

Feel free to check out my Healthy Water Resource Section below for more information about Home Water Filtration Systems.

Click here to go to my download section for a free PDF on How To Improve Home Water Quality

Fluoride news- Fluoride and Public Health: Key Developments

Fluoride In Drinking Water

For decades, the debate over fluoridating drinking water with synthetic chemicals like sodium fluoride (NaF), sodium fluorosilicate (Na₂SiF₆), and fluorosilicic acid (H₂SiF₆) has been highly contentious and polarized. Advocates have long promoted it as a critical public health measure that strengthens teeth and reduces cavities, citing endorsements from major health organizations and decades of research supporting its dental benefits. They often dismiss concerns about synthetic fluoride's potential neurotoxicity as conspiracy theories or misinformation, asserting that such claims lack credible scientific evidence.

On the other hand, opponents have consistently argued that fluoride presents serious health risks, especially for developing brains in infants and children. They point to a growing body of scientific research suggesting links between synthetic fluoride exposure and neurodevelopmental issues, including lowered IQ scores and cognitive impairments.

These concerns have been amplified by recent studies and legal actions that challenge the safety of current fluoridation practices. Now, as we enter 2024, a landmark legal ruling and a surge of new scientific evidence are set to fundamentally reshape the conversation on fluoride and public health. The ruling requires regulatory agencies to reassess fluoride regulations, acknowledging potential risks that were previously overlooked or underestimated. This pivotal moment is prompting policymakers, health professionals, and communities to reexamine long-held beliefs about the safety and efficacy of water fluoridation, potentially leading to significant changes in public health policies.

In September 2024, a pivotal moment in the fluoridation debate occurred with a ruling from U.S. federal court. For decades, opponents of fluoridation were often dismissed as fringe conspiracy theorists, however, recent legal developments have shown that the concerns of these opponents may not be as far-fetched as once thought.

In a groundbreaking decision, Judge Edward Chen, an Obama-appointed federal judge, ruled that synthetic fluoridation at levels commonly found in U.S. water could cause developmental damage and lower IQ in children. While the ruling did not specify an exact level at which fluoride exposure becomes dangerous, it concluded that current levels present an unreasonable risk to public health. This legal victory marks a turning point for public health advocates who have long argued against water fluoridation.

Scientific Evidence of Fluoride’s Neurotoxicity

The ruling is grounded in an expanding body of scientific research that demonstrates the neurotoxic effects of synthetic fluoride. One of the most compelling studies came from Harvard University, which found that children exposed to higher levels of fluoride tested an average of seven IQ points lower in 26 out of 27 studies reviewed. These studies focused on fluoride concentrations in water, many of which were comparable to levels in the U.S. water supply.

More recently, a study funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 2017 found that every milligram per liter increase in fluoride levels in pregnant women’s urine was linked to a reduction of their children’s IQ by an average of 5-6 points. A similar 2019 NIH-funded study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Pediatrics found that male children exposed to increased levels of fluoride in utero had lower IQ scores by an average of 4.5 points.

These studies are part of a larger trend of research demonstrating fluoride’s harmful effects. The National Toxicology Program’s 2023 draft scientific review documented 52 out of 55 studies linking higher fluoride levels to lower IQs in children. Several high-quality studies found this link even in optimally fluoridated areas, where the fluoride concentration meets current U.S. recommendations of 0.7 milligrams per liter.

The 2024 ruling by Judge Chen has breathed new life into the anti-fluoridation movement. According to Stuart Cooper, director of the Fluoridation Action Network, this legal win shows that opponents of fluoridation are overcoming what he calls "institutional inertia."

For years, public health agencies like the EPA and CDC have defended fluoridation, often ignoring emerging evidence that points to its risks. Cooper notes that the legal ruling finally gave the anti-fluoridation movement a fair and balanced hearing in the courts, something they had been denied for decades. "After many years of them ignoring us and defending fluoridation, we had an opportunity to get a fair and balanced adjudication in courts," Cooper said.

The EPA has now been ordered to perform a risk assessment, one of the first steps in setting new limits under the Toxic Substances Control Act. This could lead to significant changes in how water is fluoridated in the U.S. and potentially mark the beginning of the end for fluoridation in American drinking water.

Institutional Resistance and Medical Support

Despite the growing scientific consensus, many public health organizations and medical professionals continue to support water fluoridation. The American Dental Association (ADA), for example, released a statement following the 2024 ruling, emphasizing that the decision did not conclusively prove that fluoridated water is harmful to public health. Many within the medical community maintain that fluoridation is an effective tool for preventing tooth decay, particularly in children. However, even within these institutions, dissenting voices are starting to emerge.

Dr. Linda Birnbaum, former head of the EPA’s toxic chemicals program, has come out in favor of ending fluoridation, drawing parallels between the current fluoride debate and past public health controversies, such as the fight to ban lead from gasoline and paint.

"When do we know enough to revise long-held benefits?" Dr. Birnbaum asked in a 2020 op-ed.

"When do we know enough to revise long-held beliefs? We are reminded of the discovery of neurotoxic effects of lead that led to the successful banning of lead in gasoline and paint. Despite early warnings of lead toxicity, regulatory actions to reduce childhood lead exposures were not taken until decades of research had elapsed and millions more children were poisoned. We know that the developing brain is exquisitely sensitive to minute concentrations of lead and other toxic chemicals. Moreover, toxic chemicals' irreversible effects on children's rapidly growing brains emphasize the need for prevention. Failing to act on accumulated evidence raises deep and unsettling questions. Why are beliefs about the safety of fluoride so intransigent in the face of consistent evidence to the contrary?"

The Global Perspective:
Fluoridation Beyond the U.S.

While the U.S. continues to fluoridate much of its water supply, the practice is far less common worldwide. In Western Europe almost all of the countries have stopped the practice of fluoridated water and countries like Israel, which once had extensive fluoridation programs, have since discontinued the practice as recently as 2014, citing health concerns.

Globally, only 25 countries still have water fluoridation programs, and in many of these, fewer than 20% of the population consumes fluoridated water.

The U.S. is home to more people drinking fluoridated water than the rest of the world combined. Yet, despite its widespread use in America, studies have shown little difference in tooth decay rates between countries that fluoridate their water and those that do not. This raises questions about whether the benefits of water fluoridation are as significant as once believed, especially in light of mounting evidence of synthetic fluoride’s neurotoxicity.

The legal ruling requiring the EPA to reassess fluoride regulations is a monumental shift in the fluoridation debate. While it may take time for public health policies to catch up to the latest scientific findings, the ruling sets the stage for significant changes in how fluoride is managed in drinking water.

Communities across the U.S. are already taking action. In the wake of the ruling, several water systems, including those serving Salt Lake City, have suspended or discontinued fluoridation. Public pressure is mounting, and as more research becomes available, we may see further rollbacks of fluoridation programs in the coming years.

Still, as Michael Connett, a lead attorney in the case against the EPA, pointed out, the fight against fluoridation is far from over. "There’s a scientific paradigm and deep beliefs that exist that say fluoridation is safe and effective, and that doesn’t just go away overnight," he said. But with new research and legal victories, the future of water fluoridation in the U.S. and around the world is more uncertain than ever before. In conclusion, 2024 is shaping up to be a critical year for the future of water fluoridation. As more scientific studies reveal the potential risks, and as legal rulings pave the way for regulatory changes, the debate surrounding fluoride’s place in public health continues to intensify. Whether fluoridation will remain a cornerstone of dental health policy or become a relic of the past is a question that only time, and science, will answer.

What can you do?

If you're concerned about the potential risks of fluoride in drinking water, there are several ways to take action. One of the most effective steps you can take is to join the non-profit Fluoride Action Network (FAN), a leading organization dedicated to raising awareness about fluoride’s health impacts and advocating for safer public health policies. You can volunteer your time to help spread the word, participate in campaigns, and assist in organizing local efforts to reduce or eliminate water fluoridation in your community. Stay informed by reading the latest scientific research and legal updates on fluoride, and engage with the conversation online by connecting with like-minded individuals through social media platforms and discussion forums. Together, these efforts can amplify the movement to ensure safer, fluoride-free drinking water for everyone.

Air Conditioner Filters And Furnace Filters

A Review Of Air Conditioner Filters And Furnace Filters

There are some very important things that you should do to extend the life of your air conditioner and keep it working at peak efficiency at all times. One of the most important things that you can do is change your air filter every three to six months.

Many factors determine how often air filters should be changed. Equipment efficiency declines if you wait too long and operating costs increase. Replacing your air conditioner filter too often can be a waste of your hard earned money, especially if you are using an expensive type of filter. A possible solution to this is to use electrostatic filters which you clean and reuse.

It is important to keep in mind that the more efficient your air conditioner filter is the more often it will have to be cleaned or replaced. For most people, pleated filters will do an adequate job. These filters are ten to sixty percent efficient and some manufacturers claim even higher efficiencies.

Pleated air conditioner filters should be changed every three to six months depending on how dusty it is where you live. If you live in an area with lots of dust then your filter may need to be changed every couple of months.

If you require more efficient air filtration you may want an electrostatic, electronic or even a HEPA filter. The more efficient the filter is the more often it will have to be cleaned or replaced.

Electrostatic filters offer the greatest value. They cost 2 to 6 times more than an efficient disposable filter but are reusable. You simply rinse them with water and they are ready to use again.

Electronic filters will never become dirty enough to effect airflow. They just become inefficient and there ability to remove dust from the air deminishes. To clean these filters you have to remove the electronic cells and soak them in something like HVAC cleaner and then rinse them and let them dry.

HEPA filters are the most efficient filters available but become plugged very quickly. They need to be checked monthly and often cause too much restriction to airflow to be used at all. An air conditioner contractor will be able to tell you if it is worth trying one of these in your system.

Economy panel filters that you can get from your local hardware store are probably the worst type of filters that you could possibly use in your air conditioner. These are the ones that you could almost read a book through. These filters are at the bottom of the list, when it comes to efficiency.

These filters do such a poor job you could leave one in your air conditioner for a year and it might not collect enough dust to require changing. The unfortunate thing is the evaporator coil of your air conditioner would need to be cleaned every year to remove the dirt that should have been stopped by the filter.

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The Global Perspective:
Fluoridation Beyond the U.S.