Lead

Lead, a heavy metal often found in tap water due to aging pipes, poses a serious threat to infants.

Source:

Primarily comes from corroded pipes and plumbing fixtures.

Harms:

Can hinder cognitive development, impair learning abilities, and lead to behavioral issues in children.

“Lead poisoning is an insidious disease. Few people realize it can be the source of lifelong health problems, particularly in children.”

— Herbert Needleman, Pediatrician and Pioneer in Lead Research

Chlorine

Chlorine, a disinfectant in water, can irritate delicate skin and impact respiratory systems, especially in infants.

Source:

Commonly used in water treatment for disinfection.

Harms:

May cause skin and respiratory irritation, particularly concerning for infants.

“Chlorine is a necessary element for living organisms, but it needs to be respected and handled carefully. Its impact on delicate skin and respiratory systems, especially in infants, underscores the importance of water quality awareness.”

— Dr. Joseph Mercola, Alternative Medicine Proponen

Mercury

Mercury, a heavy metal, is often present in water due to natural processes and industrial pollution.

Source:

Mainly originates from industrial discharges and natural weathering of rocks.

Harms:

Social withdrawal, speech delay, Can have toxic effects on the nervous system, impacting motor skills, cognition, and coordination in infants.

“Mercury, once released into the environment, can become a persistent toxin with far-reaching effects. Its threat to infants’ developing nervous systems highlights the need for stringent environmental safeguards.”

— Dr. Philippe Grandjean, Environmental Health Researcher

Arsenic

Arsenic, a naturally occurring element, can contaminate water sources and poses chronic health risks.

Source:

Mainly originates from natural deposits, mining activities, and industrial processes.

Harms:

Depression, fatigue, Linked to skin, bladder, and lung cancers; poses a risk to infants with developing immune systems.

“Arsenic is a potent poison, yet its subtle presence in water poses a chronic health risk. Understanding and mitigating this risk is essential for safeguarding vulnerable populations, including infants.”

— Dr. Joshua Hamilton, Arsenic Researcher

Nitrate

Nitrate, commonly from agricultural runoff, poses a significant risk, particularly for infants.

Source:

Mainly comes from fertilizer use, septic systems, and manure.

Harms:

Can lead to methemoglobinemia, affecting the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity, posing risks to infants (Blue Baby Syndrome).

“The impact of nitrate contamination on infants is a stark reminder that seemingly benign substances can have profound consequences. Vigilance in monitoring and addressing water quality is paramount.”

— Dr. Bruce Lanphear, Environmental Health Researcher

Pesticides

Pesticides from agricultural and industrial runoff can find their way into water sources, potentially affecting infant development.

Source:

Mainly comes from agricultural practices and industrial discharges.

Harms:

Prolonged exposure, even at low levels, may have developmental and neurological impacts on infants.

“Pesticides are not just chemicals; they are biologically active substances designed to exert a toxic effect on the organisms they target. Recognizing their potential harm to developing infants is a call to reevaluate our approach to agricultural practices.”

— Dr. Tyrone Hayes, Biologist and Pesticide Researcher

Perchlorate

Perchlorate, a chemical used in rocket propellants and fireworks, can contaminate water sources and pose health risks.

Source:

Primarily comes from industrial activities and military operations.

Harms:

Interferes with the thyroid gland’s ability to produce hormones, affecting infant development.

“Perchlorate is a concerning contaminant due to its potential to disrupt thyroid function, particularly concerning for vulnerable populations like infants.”

— Dr. Linda Birnbaum, Former Director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences

PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances)

PFAS, a group of human-made chemicals, can contaminate water sources and persist in the environment.

Source:

Comes from industrial processes, firefighting foams, and consumer products.

Harms:

Linked to various health issues, including developmental effects and immune system disruption in infants.

“The persistence and potential health effects of PFAS underscore the importance of minimizing exposure, especially for vulnerable populations like infants.”

— Dr. Philippe Grandjean, Environmental Health Researcher

Copper

Copper, while essential in trace amounts, can be harmful in excess. Old copper pipes may leach copper into tap water, posing risks to infants.

Source:

Mainly comes from corroded copper pipes.

Excessive copper exposure can lead to gastrointestinal issues and may impact infant development, rash, eczema, body jerks

“Excessive copper in drinking water can lead to adverse health effects, particularly for vulnerable populations such as infants. It’s essential to monitor copper levels and take appropriate measures to ensure a safe water supply.”

— Water Quality Expert Statement

Aluminium

Aluminum can enter tap water through natural processes or from aluminum-containing water treatment products. It’s crucial to monitor levels, especially for infants.

Source:

Comes from natural deposits and water treatment processes.

Harms:

Excessive aluminum exposure may have neurotoxic effects, raising concerns for infant brain development.

“While aluminum is abundant in the environment, elevated levels in drinking water can be a concern. Research suggests potential neurotoxic effects, emphasizing the need for careful monitoring, especially for infants and developing children.”

— Water Safety Researcher Statement