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Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Hazards of Chlorine

Chlorine in the drinking water is still a relatively new concept, and the unintended consequences have only come to light in the last two decades. The problem is that the "light" hasn't been very bright. One EPA report back in 1994 got very little attention in the media, and I doubt if you ever heard a thing about it. The problem is not just in the water you drink. If you have chlorine in the water entering your house, it is also what you shower with. The skin absorption of chlorine as well as the inhalation of chlorine vapors when you shower may also have unfortunate consequences. This link will help you get a basic understanding of the risks. http://www.holistichealthtools.com/chlorine.html
At a minimum, it may be wise to put a small filter on your faucet and filter all the water you drink or cook with. You can also buy a shower head/filter that will remove most or all of the chlorine and other heavy metals from your shower. Another alternative is a "whole house" filter system placed on the incoming supply line. Whatever your solution, remember that filters must periodically be changed or you'll wind up right back where you started. Also, a bit of research reveals that there have been many reports published concerning the chlorine risks to swimmers, especially those who compete and are constantly training in the pool. Greatest risks for swimmers are those super-chlorinated indoor pools, because they not only have the skin absorption but the steamy vapors common to the venues. These are not "the sky is falling!" alarmist warnings. The risks are well documented. Abnormally high chlorine exposure is a very common link when bladder cancer (and other organ cancers) studies tabulate their results.

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