Is Filtered Water Good for You?

Water is important. You have to drink water to stay healthy and bathe in it to stay clean, but questions about tap water safety have caused many people to turn to filtered water. Although most tap water in the United States is considered healthful, filtered water can have some benefits.

Increased Water Consumption

• Many people complain about the smell and taste of their tap water. Using a water filter at the sink can filter out the chemicals and particulates that cause that taste and smell. If improved taste increases your water consumption, then a filter is a healthful choice.

Children & Pregnant Women

• Filtered water is good for children and pregnant women because the filtration takes out trace levels of chlorine, lead and arsenic sometimes found in tap water. These levels aren't typically dangerous for adults.

Compromised Immune Systems

• Filtered water is especially beneficial for people who have immune systems weakened by diseases such as AIDS or treatments like chemotherapy. In addition to low levels of lead and arsenic common in tap water, there can be small amounts of bacteria and viruses that can be harmful to someone whose immune system is not functioning properly.

Beauty Benefits

• Filtered water can be beneficial for bathing also. Filters designed for showerheads are made to remove the chlorine that is drying to the skin and hair. Also, filtered shower water is better for people with respiratory problems, because chlorine can be irritating and even harmful when inhaled.