In the mid-nineteenth century, a biologist named Sir William Hardy proposed that water’s three phases – solid, liquid, and gas – didn’t do water justice. He insisted that a fourth, or even fifth phase must exist between the three already discovered. However, as scientists had already subjected the three phases to ample research (and as schools found three phases easier to teach to introductory Biology students) Hardy’s proposal remained largely ignored.

Almost two-hundred years later, science continues to turn a blind eye toward Hardy’s suggestions. However, in Washington state, a small team of researchers headed by Dr. Gerald Pollack has begun to reverse this trend. Drawing upon the well of information (pun intended) already gathered about H2O, they have discovered that Hardy was not thinking too far out of the box. Although the science isn’t simple, Pollack and his team have dubbed their creation “EZ water.”

What is EZ Water?

Exclusion Zone (EZ) water – also called fourth-phase water – consists of layers of bound H3O2 molecules. These layers carry a negative charge, which causes them to repel each other to the degree that they cannot form a solid. As a viscous mass, EZ water repels particles such as those found in dirt, soil, and old pipes.

Overall, EZ water is denser and purer than “traditional” water (H2O). Because of these properties, Dr. Pollack contends that EZ water is the “missing link” between water’s solid and liquid states.

How EZ Water Can Help You

We’ve already mentioned how EZ water carries a negative charge. This charge attracts light energy, which comes from sources as complex as infrared beams or as mundane as the sun shining in your window. This also means that, when consumed, EZ water creates a slightly alkaline environment in the body that allows drinkers derive more energy from UV rays. Called sun-based living, some scientists believe it is the key to optimal health.

EZ water’s density also makes it unique. With a jellylike texture, it pushes away molecules that slip through H2O’s grasp. In fact, part of what helped Pollack and his team discover EZ water was its power as a rust and dirt repellant. 

Thanks to this early identification of EZ water’s purifying potential, scientists are now at work to determine whether the substance also excludes salts and small-molecular chemicals. If their tests are successful, EZ water could render sea water drinkable and open a host of new water sources for humans.

Adya Clarity® Creates EZ Water

After learning about Dr. Pollack’s discoveries, the team at Adya became curious as to whether their product – already renowned for purifying even the most contaminated water – produced the same layering effect as EZ water. An independent test confirmed their hypotheses, revealing that water treated with Adya Clarity® absorbed UV rays at a much higher frequency than normal H2O. Simply put, Adya Clarity makes water not only drinkable but also better for the body.

Because it purifies water in the blink of an eye, it’s easy to think that Adya Clarity® is only for people who don’t have drinkable water readily available, or for communities in crisis situations. Luckily, its reach extends well beyond that. A confirmed conductor of UV rays, water treated with Adya Clarity® also doubles as Dr. Pollack’s famous EZ water, something that can balance your pH and launch your wellness into its fourth phase.

Sources:

Dr. Mercola. “The Fourth Phase of Water – What You Don’t Know About Water, And What You Really Should.” Mercola, 18 Aug 2013, http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2013/08/18/exclusion-zone-water.aspx

Dr. Mercola. “Water: The Single Most Important Element for Your Health.” Mercola, 29 Jan. 2011, http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2011/01/29/dr-pollack-on-structured-water.aspx

“Pollack Laboratory.” Washington, http://faculty.washington.edu/ghp/

Pollack, Dr. Gerald. “’The Fourth Phase of Water’ at TEDxGuelphU.” YouTube. Uploaded by Rain City Water, 13 June 2014, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJTfRUYUL8o.

Fluoride in water has been a hot-button issue over the past decade, especially after the publication of a Harvard study suggesting fluoride’s role in neurological problems, and another study discrediting fluoride’s benefits against tooth decay. Since the release of these two polemic findings, communities across America have fought for the right to drink non-fluoridated municipal water and to lower the reporting level for fluoride toxicity.

However, fluoridated municipal water makes up just one part of the issue. Bottled waters, many of them household names, contain fluoride levels that go far and beyond the recommended safe intake. Here are the top five.

1. Ice Mountain

Ice Mountain comes from Nestlé, a company that, after being outed for monopolizing Toronto groundwater, has gained a reputation for exploiting sources.

Nestlé has gone lengths to rebuild its image as a water supplier, however, leaving no exception for product quality. The company currently posts water quality reports on its website and includes fluoride in their measurements. Ice Mountain supposedly contains “undetectable” levels of fluoride, but this is only in relation to the EPA’s minimum reporting levels of 0.1 milligrams per liter (mg/l).

In fact, the posted numbers tell us little about actual fluoride levels. Nestlé draws its water from wells, springs, and municipal sources, which means that natural and artificial fluoride could be sparse or abundant, depending on location.

2. Poland Springs

As one of America’s leading bottled water suppliers, it is no surprise that Nestlé owns Poland Springs water, as well. According to its water safety report, Poland Springs, like Ice Mountain, contains sub-detectable levels of fluoride.

Nonetheless, Nestlé uses the same sourcing and purification methods for this brand as it does, Ice Mountain. Again, there is no telling how much lower or higher the average deviates from more extreme – and possibly more harmful – samples.

3. Crystal Springs

DS Services, a less well-known enterprise, is responsible for bottling Crystal Springs water. They, too, provide mineral information about their product, but it remains just as misleading as the numbers provided by their competitor.

More questionably, the company uses a reporting level far higher than that provided by the EPA, establishing minimums at .130 mg/l. Consumption averages above this level, especially over the long term, could bring serious illness to customers.

4. Ozarka

Once a small-name bottler, Ozarka water has recently come under Nesté ownership. Therefore, it too has a quality report available online. Unsurprisingly, it goes without saying that this report tells only half-truths about Ozarka’s fluoride content.

Keeping with its form, Nestlé sources and purifies Ozarka in the same manner as it does, its other brands. In so doing, Nestlé maintains the same risk of drawing from sources too high in natural or artificial fluoride, putting certain markets at risk for fluoride toxicity.

5. Puritan Springs

Offering no insight to its fluoride content, Puritan Springs raises some major red flags. These become even more prevalent when bringing the brand’s fluoridated variety into question, as it could bring American fluoride consumption – especially in cities with excessive natural fluoride – to dangerous levels.

Furthermore, Puritan Springs comes from the same branding resource Coffee-Mate, Bigelow Tea, and other popular brands. More likely than not, it, too, makes the water component of some – if not all – of these drinks’ pre-bottled beverages. As such, it puts more than just plain water into the fluoride safety spotlight.

Efforts against fluoridated water have made strides in recent years. Nonetheless, they often ignore the “safe” water that lines supermarket shelves. Luckily, as with most oversights, awareness, and education can change this trend.

Sources

“Printable List of Bottled Water Containing Fluoride.” RealFarmacy. REAL Farmacy, n.d. url: http://realfarmacy.com/printable-list-of-bottled-water-containing-fluoride/.

DS Services of America. “Water Quality Report.” crystal-springs. DS Services of America, n.d. url: https://www.crystal-springs.com/files/nonbrand/waterqualityreports/Fluoridated_Spring_Water_Quality_Report_022417.pdf

Nestle Waters. “Ice Mountain: Bottled Water Quality Report.” nestle-watersna. Nestle Waters North America, n.d. url: http://www.nestle-watersna.com/asset-library/Documents/IM_BWQR.pdf

Nestle Waters. “Ozarka: Bottled Water Quality Report.” nestle-watersna. Nestle Waters North America, n.d. url: http://www.nestle-watersna.com/asset-library/Documents/O_ENG.pdf

Nestle Waters. “Poland Spring: Bottled Water Quality Report.” nestle-watersna. Nestle Waters North America, n.d. url: https://www.nestle-watersna.com/asset-library/Documents/PS_ENG.pdf

Environmental science is a growing field. However, environmental research and city policy have often butted heads. This is no different in the case of fluoride, which has been added to metropolitan water since the late 1970’s. While officials claim to keep fluoride for the dental well-being of their citizens, they ignore studies that hold fluoride to be anything but beneficial.

What is Fluoride?

Fluoride is the 13th-most abundant element on Earth’s crust. It is a negative anion of fluorine and is present in most metals.

Because it occurs naturally, trace amounts of fluoride are present in groundwater and soil. However, it can also be synthesized in labs.

Why is Fluoride a Health Concern?

The release of a 1975 study that correlated fluoride consumption with lower levels of dental decay gave rise to excessive consumption of the mineral, especially after cities began adding it to municipal drinking water without the consent of constituents. Since this time, institutions like Harvard University, the WHO, and the EPA have documented the negative effects of excessive fluoride consumption.

Unsurprisingly, the most popular study comes from Harvard, which found a correlation between excessive fluoride consumption and lowered I.Q. Since the study’s, over 50 replication attempts have yielded similar results. According to the Fluoride Action Network, the question is no longer whether excessive fluoride consumption lowers I.Q. Rather, it is what dose of fluoride, and for how long.

Scientists have also researched the negative effects of fluoride on the body, specifically the bones and teeth. Skeletal fluorosis, characterized by the pitting, darkening, and weakening of the bones and teeth, has been associated with individuals with lifetime exposure to excessive fluoride. In the same vein, a 2006 study published in Cancer Causes & Control identified a possible link between excessive fluoride consumption and osteosarcoma in boys.

Finally, the WHO has determined that the regular consumption of fluoride at rates exceeding 1.5mg per liter of water can exacerbate neurological conditions, like epilepsy, as well as gastrointestinal conditions.

How does Fluoride Contaminate Water?

Although fluoride occurs naturally and has been consumed via groundwater for centuries, it has only been added to water over the past three decades. Especially in areas with high counts for natural fluoride, this means that individuals are consuming potentially deadly levels of the mineral.

The rarity of natural fluoride contamination is worth noting. In areas without fluoride-treated water, measurements rarely exceed half of the EPA’s safety limit of 4 parts per million (ppm). From this information, environmentalists have long concluded that fluoride contamination happens via human intervention, rather than from natural causes.

Is Fluoride Regulated?

Currently, fluoride levels are regulated at the municipal level. Since most U.S. cities still fluoridate their water, and since some U.S. cities base their fluoridation levels on frequently-updated measurements, it is impossible to determine a national average.

The EPA and the WHO, on the other hand, have established safety limits of 4ppm and 1.5mg per liter, respectively. Still, the EPA warns that damage can happen with long-term exposure to even a quarter of these amounts.

How to Remove Fluoride from Your Water

As Fluoride is a natural element, it is difficult to remove all fluoride from your water. Trace amounts, however, have long shown to be harmless. Thankfully, too, Adya Clarity provides an affordable solution for avoiding dangerous fluoride levels; it traps 100% of fluoride ions and brings levels to below EPA detectability.

At once naturally-occurring and potentially-harmful, fluoride is the frenemy of environmental scientists and city politicians, alike. However, until municipal officials recognize that excessive consumption of fluoride does more harm to well-being than good, to teeth, it is up to the people to act. Thankfully, with the help of Adya Clarity, you can prevent your family and friends from excessive fluoride exposure.

Sources:

Blank, Tara & Connett, Michael. “Fluoride & I.Q.: The 50 Studies.” FluorideAlert. Fluoride Action Network, 11 Sep. 2016. url: http://fluoridealert.org/studies/brain01/.

Choi, A.L., Sun, G., Zhang, Y., & Grandjean, P. “Developmental fluoride neurotoxicity: A systematic review and meta-analysis.” PubMed. National Center for Biotechnology Information, Oct. 2012. Abstract. url: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22820538.

Mercola, Dr. Joseph. “Harvard Study Finds Fluoride Lowers I.Q.” Mercola. Dr. Joseph Mercola, 7 Aug. 2012. url: http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2012/08/07/effects-of-fluoride-to-children.aspx#_edn1.

Mercola, Dr. Joseph. “No Evidence for Fluoridated Water to Result in Less Cavities.” Mercola. Dr. Joseph Mercola, 20 Sep. 2016. url: http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2016/09/20/fluoridated-water-less-cavities.aspx.

 

“New year, new me,” as the old cliché goes. Over the past decade, losing weight and eating healthier have topped New Years’ resolutions among most Americans. However, according to Forbes, only 8% of Americans stick with their resolutions for a full year.

With hectic schedules and even less pleasant lifestyle changes associated with losing weight and eating healthier, infused water – that is, unsweetened water flavored with natural fruits, vegetables, and herbs – can make it easier, and tastier, to meet your personal goals. Here are some of our favorite recipes:

1. Blueberry + lemon + cucumber

This trio infuses a powerful combination of antioxidants, vitamin C, and muscle-strengthening properties when placed into water. Blueberries fight free radicals while increasing insulin sensitivity, allowing the body to better determine instances of hunger and satiety. Lemons are packed with vitamin C, with just two tablespoons of lemon juice alone containing nearly a quarter of the daily recommended serving. Cucumbers, furthermore, contain an element called silica, which repairs muscle fibers. By preventing illness and strengthening your body, this mix adds layers upon layers of protection.

2. Orange + vanilla bean + cinnamon

A warming combination for a cold winter’s day, this infusion helps fight disease while also lowering cholesterol. Like lemons, oranges (and pure orange juice) contain almost an entire day’s serving of vitamin C. Vanilla Bean offers a smooth contrast to orange’s more acidic flavor, while also preventing liver and joint inflammation. Cinnamon adds spicy savor to the mix, while additionally lowering bad cholesterol and, by extension, blood pressure. Spicy and sweet, and infusion of orange, vanilla bean, and cinnamon is not to be missed.

3. Pear + raspberry + rosemary

Pears are interesting, for they contain fibers that cleanse the colon, even after long-term submersion in water. Likewise, more recent studies suggest these same fibers may help lower blood pressure. Raspberry and Rosemary also do wonders for the blood. Raspberries contain iron, which increases oxygen flow as well as brain performance. Rosemary augments this asset, acting as a natural stimulant for blood flow and metabolic activity. Basically, if you desire weight control and a sharper start to the new year, pear, raspberry, and rosemary are the way to go.

4. Lemon + sea salt

Known as the classic salt water flush, lemon and sea salt gently cleanse the colon by, in not-so-polite terms, forcing a bowel movement. This mixture reduces bloat and water retention and adds nutrients like magnesium, calcium, and potassium when created with real, non-processed sea salt. In all, while lemon and sea salt have long been the tried and true method for reducing weight. What modern research tells us is they provide essential vitamins and minerals, as well.

5. Lemon + aloe + orange + mint

As we have mentioned before, lemon and orange alone cap daily vitamin C requirements. Aloe and Mint harmonize well with their citrus flavor, creating an infusion that has just the right amount of sweetness, tanginess, and brightness. Aloe also contains a substance called latex which, like sea salt, provides a gentle laxative effect. However, unlike its more popular relative, Aloe does not have the same dehydrating effects. Mint, on the other hand, acts as a natural stimulant for both metabolic and digestive functions. In all, lemon, orange, aloe, and mint are a more exotic option for your latest detoxing endeavors.

As Americans gravitate toward natural solutions for their personal goals, infused water has become more common in everyday households. And of course, far more combinations are possible beyond the blends addressed in this list.

Finally, as a word of reminder, filtered water gets rid of toxic chemicals, and makes your infusions healthier. As you make changes this year, keep in mind that Adya's home water purification and filtration products, can help you reap your resolution’s ultimate benefits.

Sources

“Benefits of a Salt Water Flush, Including Detoxing + Pooping.” Dr. Axe, Dr. Axe, n.d. url: https://draxe.com/salt-water-flush/.

“Health Benefits of Mint.” OrganicFacts, Organic Information Services, n.d. url: https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/health-benefits-of-mint.html.

Billings-Smith, Lana. “What Are the Health Benefits of Vanilla Extract?” LiveStrong, LiveStrong, 16 Apr. 2015. url: http://www.livestrong.com/article/298410-what-are-the-health-benefits-of-vanilla-extract/.

Diamond, Dan. “Just 8% of People Achieve Their New Year’s Resolutions. Here’s How They Do It.” Forbes, Forbes Media, LLC, 1 Jan. 2013. url: http://www.forbes.com/sites/dandiamond/2013/01/01/just-8-of-people-achieve-their-new-years-resolutions-heres-how-they-did-it/#6863f0b6304c.

Dillon, Katie. “8 Reasons Why You Should Drink Cucumber Water.” LaJollaMom, La Jolla Living, 23 July 2012. url: http://lajollamom.com/drink-cucumber-water-health/.

Leech, Joe. “10 Proven Health Benefits of Blueberries.” AuthorityNutrition, Authority Nutrition, n.d. url: https://authoritynutrition.com/10-proven-benefits-of-blueberries/.

Leech, Joe. “8 Evidence-Based Health Benefits of Aloe Vera.” AuthorityNutrition, Authority Nutrition, n.d. url: https://authoritynutrition.com/8-proven-health-benefits-of-aloe-vera/.

Manistas, Andrea, and Monaco, Emily. “7 Health Benefits of Cinnamon You Need to Know.” OrganicAuthority, Organic Authority, n.d. url: http://www.organicauthority.com/health/11-health-benefits-of-cinnamon.html

Raidt, Dana. “6 Immune-Boosting Infused Water Ideas for Winter.” HelloGlow, Hello Natural, 15 Jan. 2015. url: http://helloglow.co/5-new-health-and-beauty-boosting-infused-water-ideas-for-winter/#_a5y_p=3190321.

Ware, Megan. “Pears: Health Benefits and Nutritional Information.” MedicalNewsToday, MedLexicon, 22 Nov. 2016. url: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/285430.php.

Your mouth feels dry and sticky like it’s filled with syrup or sugar. You also feel sluggish and drowsy, even though the season has allowed you to catch up on much-needed sleep. Some chalk it up to end-of-year fatigue, and others call it the holiday blues, but doctors know the real cause of these symptoms: dehydration.

Many people don’t know when they’re dehydrated, and even more, don’t know the symptoms of dehydration. However, you can prevent it this winter by knowing the symptoms, and what to do about them.

What Causes Dehydration?

Dehydration has several causes, the holiday diet among them. During this time of year, we consume more simple sugars and salty food. We also consume fewer fruits and vegetables than typical, at other times. Holiday sweets bring elevated blood sugar, which causes increased urination and water loss. Salty food does the opposite, causing us to retain water and, thus, feel less thirsty. Both instances, however, rarely bring us to increase our water intake.

Symptoms of Dehydration

As mentioned above, symptoms of early-stage dehydration are hard to detect: your mouth may feel dry, and you may feel tired, but it’s normal to associate these signs with other lifestyle choices, like a poor diet or lack of sleep. In fact, we frequently misinterpret the dry mouth symptom as hunger.

However, as dehydration progresses, more symptoms crop up. For instance, you may develop a headache, because the body has depleted the water stores that surround the brain. You may also experience muscle cramping and weakness because a lack of water limits the flow of electrolytes through the blood stream.

In addition to giving attention to the symptoms, however, there are simple tests that will help you tell whether you need something to drink. The first, called a skin test, is when you pinch yourself, raising skin about ½ centimeter high. If your skin doesn’t spring back within a few seconds, you may be dehydrated. The second test, called the urine test, is a little more self-explanatory. If your urine is darker than light yellow, you need to hydrate better.

Staying Hydrated

We said before that staying hydrated is more difficult during the holidays, due to the holiday diet and our own difficulty identifying signs of dehydration. Luckily, there are many simple tips that you can follow to make hydration easier.

Beginning with the least obvious, try to maintain a diet full of fruits and vegetables, even during the busy, sugar-filled holiday season. Foods like grapes, oranges, and watermelon have up to 92% water and are excellent sources of vitamins C, B1, B2, B6, and K. Combined, the water content and electrolytes help you not only stay hydrated but prevent electrolyte deficiencies, as well. Vegetables, like broccoli, cucumbers, and green beans do similar work while adding fiber that will keep your dessert cravings at bay.

Unfortunately, not all holiday parties will have a vast selection of fruits and vegetables. If this is the case for you, then look for foods higher in water content, like gelatin dessert (Jell-O), fruit pies (crust optional), or even potatoes. While these may not be the most nutritious options, they can still help you attain your hydration goals while avoiding excessive fat, salt, and sugar levels.

Of course, if the food lets you down, you can still hydrate with the old-fashioned stuff, water, during the holidays. Eight, eight-ounce glasses per day are still recommended, but feel free to drink more if you still feel thirsty. What’s more, avoiding diuretic beverages, like alcoholic and caffeinated drinks, or adding an extra glass of water for every diuretic beverage consumed, will further prevent dehydration this season.

Finally, while water is great, purified water is even better. Whether visiting your loved ones or inviting them to your home this holiday season, make sure to have the best in water treatment with an Adya water filter or the portable Adya Clarity® water purification solution.

Sources:

 Borland, Sophie.  “Is dehydration the reason you’re tired ALL the time? One in five ‘don’t realise they need eight drinks a day.’” TheDailyMail, Associated Newspapers Ltd., 25 May 2015. url: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-3096702/Could-one-five-GP-visits-dehydration-New-study-claims-fatigue-epidemic.html

George, Nancie.  “6 Unusual Signs of Dehydration.” EverydayHealth, Everyday Health Media, LLC, 1 Feb. 2016. url: http://www.everydayhealth.com/news/unusual-signs-of-dehydration/

“Grapes.” World’sHealthiestFoods, The George Mateljan Foundation, n.d. url: http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=40

Lerner, Abby. “Top 30 Hydrating Foods.” Shape, Meredith Corporation, 2016. url: http://www.shape.com/healthy-eating/healthy-drinks/top-30-hydrating-foods

“Oranges.” World’sHealthiestFoods, The George Mateljan Foundation, n.d. url: http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=37

Szalay, Jessie.  “Watermelon: Health Benefits, Risks & Nutrition Facts.” LiveScience Reference, Purch, 7 Oct. 2014. url: http://www.livescience.com/46019-watermelon-nutrition.html

Verity, Alicia.  “Top 5 Ways to Stay Hydrated During the Holidays.” iTriage Health Blog, iTriage, 30 Nov. 2009. url: https://blog.itriagehealth.com/top-5-ways-to-stay-hydrated-during-the-holidays/

Sources:

"Contact Dermatitis: Facts About Skin Rashes." WebMD, WebMD, http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/contact-dermatitis#1.  Accessed 10 Nov. 2016.

"Safety and Health Topics: Hexavalent Chromium." OSHA, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/hexavalentchromium/healtheffects.html.  Accessed 10 Nov. 2016.

“Chromium Toxicity: Where is Chromium Found?” ASTDR, Center for Disease Control, 10 Dec. 2013, https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/csem/csem.asp?csem=10&po=5.  Accessed 10 Nov. 2016.

“Frequently Asked Questions: Chromium (III) and (IV).” DHSS, Delaware Health and Social Services, http://dhss.delaware.gov/dph/files/chromiumfaq.pdf.  Accessed 10 Nov. 2016.

“Hexavalent Chromium Testing.” CASLab, ALS Environmental, 2014, http://www.caslab.com/Hexavalent-Chromium-Testing/.  Accessed 10 Nov. 2016.

Norris, Courtney.  "What is chromium-6 and how did it infiltrate America's drinking water?"  PBS NewsHour, NewsHour Publications, 26 Sep. 2016, http://www.pbs.org/newshour/rundown/chromium-6-wash-many-drinking-supplies. Accessed 10 Nov. 2016. 

To most Americans, the United States is one of the cleanest nations in the world: we have the most sanitary hospitals, the cleanest bathrooms, and, of course, the most drinkable water.

We cannot comment for the first two, but the latter leaves much room for interpretation. According to the EWG, over 75% of water sources in a 60,000-sample survey measured above-average levels of Chromium-6 between 2010 and 2015. Indeed, decades after its first appearance in court, this toxin continues to invade American homes.

What is Chromium-6?

Chromium-6, called hexavalent chromium, occurs naturally and is a common ingredient in paints, dyes, and pigments. A powerful anticorrosive, it is also used in manufacturing plants to harden and treat alloy metals and water towers, to lower water temperature.

Although a common industrial element, Chromium-6 has a dark side. Prolonged exposure can damage the kidneys, liver, skin, and eyes, and can induce or aggravate certain respiratory systems. The substance also has carcinogenic properties, a two-year study by the National Toxicology Program deeming it responsible for cancer in a significant sample of laboratory mice and a Chinese study linking the element to stomach cancer.

While 26 states have established strict limits against Chromium-6 in the workplace, what quantities of the substance appear in waste go largely ignored. A prime component in the ash that blows out of smoke stacks, the insidious chemical falls on unprotected land where it damages soil and, yes, groundwater.

What have we done?

As documented in the film Erin Brockovich, environmental activists began taking a stand against Chromium-6 in their homes and environments as early as the year 2000.

However, thanks to lobbying and lack of public awareness, their efforts have made little progress. In California, for example, legislators raised the proposed limit of 0.02 parts per billion (ppb) to 10 ppb, or over 500 times the original proposition. Similarly, New Jersey and North Carolina tried to pass bills regulating levels of Chromium-6 to 0.06 ppb, only to have their bids multiplied several times over. These go leaps and bounds over the efforts of most states, which have set no definite limit for levels of the toxic chemical.

As you can see, the fight for better water has been anything but crystal. The EPA has established a “safe” limit of 10 ppb which, often surpassed, puts America at risk for 12,000 excess cases of cancer per year.

What can we do?

Until legislators and state officials open their eyes to the reality of the situation, the outlook appears grim. It is estimated that treating water to attain even the astoundingly high 10 ppb limit will cost the country over $20 million, an amount that legislators are quick to cut.

Nonetheless, you can protect your own home by treating your water with Adya Clarity®. Cheap and easy-to-use, Adya Clarity® converts toxic Chromium-6 into Chromium-3, also known as trivalent chromium. Unlike its cousin, Chromium-3 is nutritionally beneficial and helps the body process certain sugars, proteins, and fats. While possibly toxic in high levels, it does nowhere near the damage of Chromium-6 and can help you make the most of a healthy diet.

Other sources may encourage you to drink bottled water or to collect spring water straight from the source. While the second solution does not pose a threat to the environment as do, plastic bottles, the prevalence of Chromium-6 in the soil and the air indicates that even the freshest natural H2O may put your life on the line.

It looks like the Erin Brockovich story has only just begun. However, by using Adya Clarity®, you can ensure that you and your family will see it through until the end.

Sources:

Andrews, David, and Walker, Bill. “Erin Brockovich Carcinogen in Tap Water of More Than 100 Million Americans.” EWG, Environmental Working Group, 20 Sep. 2016, url: http://www.ewg.org/research/chromium-six-found-in-us-tap-water

“Frequently Asked Questions: Chromium (III) and (VI).” DHSS, Delaware Health and Social Services, n.d., url: http://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/files/chromiumfaq.pdf

“Hexavalent Chromium in California’s Water.” AdyaWater, Adya Water, 7 Nov. 2013, url: https://adyawater.com/blogs/adya-news-1/9987601-hexavalent-chromium-in-californias-water

“Safety and Health Topics: Hexavalent Chromium.” OSHA, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, n.d., url: https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/hexavalentchromium/

Sources

“10 Benefits of Using Filter Water.” AllAboutWater. All About Water, 2004. Web.

“Natural Prevention for Colds and Flu.” WebMD. WebMD, n.d. Web.

“Protect Yourself to Prevent Colds and Flu.” EverydayHealth. Everyday Health Media, 14 Dec. 2012. Web.

Koff, Ashley. “5 Expert Tips to Overcome Dehydration & Prevent Colds.” OrganicConnectMag. Organic Connections, n.d. Web.

O’Connor, Anahad. “The Claim: Drink Plenty of Fluids to Beat a Cold.” NYTimes. The New York Times, 10 Jan. 2011. Web.

Petersen, Grace. “Forget cold medicine, stay hydrated.” NorfolkDailyNews. Norfolk Daily News, 19 Nov. 2012. Web.

The season of pumpkins and apple cider has finally arrived, but that doesn’t mean you should shed your stock of summer fruits. When added to water, these citrus delights can help you fight fall allergies, freshen up after family feasts, and reach your New Year goals.

Below are just five of the benefits lemon water can give to you: 

Weight Loss

To begin with the obvious, lemon water, unlike lemonade or other lemon-flavored soft drinks, has no sugar or calories when consumed straight. Better yet, it carries the hydrating benefits of plain water, while allowing you to feel fuller and taste something zestier than plain H2O.

On a more specific level, the acids in lemon juice act as natural stimulants of saliva and gastric juices, which helps move things along and prevents your body from absorbing unnecessary fats. The fresh-squeezed taste does indeed benefit your colon, but you should consume in moderation: too much lemon juice can aggravate acid reflux or cause sour stomach, especially if you have a sensitive bowel system.

Less Mucous

Fall means the beginning of cold and allergy season, as well as the start of expensive mucous-fighting methods hitting the shelves. To avoid wasting cash on something that could be caustic to your respiratory system, invest in some lemons instead.

While it may not smell as strong as mint or Echinacea, lemon juice is loaded with antioxidants that can fight colds, or prevent them from becoming worse. Mixed with honey, it creates a mucous-fighting barrier that coats the throat and keeps you breathing easy even in your stuffiest times.

More Liver Enzymes

With the holidays drawing near, everyone seems eager to try the latest detox trick. The majority of these regimes call for expensive juicers or a radical diet shift, none of which compare to what the liver can do on its own.

Yes, the liver itself is a magnificent organ, but you have to maintain it to keep it in working order. This is where lemon water comes in: a fiber present in lemon rinds, d-limonene, has been shown to activate liver enzymes and maximize the detoxification process. In fact, water alone can spare your liver from the potentially damaging effects of other products, like alcohol and medication.

Fresher Breath

You know the situation: Indian food for lunch, and a meeting right afterward. Carrying around a toothbrush isn’t always practical, and chomping on gum is just plain distracting. But still, you need some way to keep your mouth from stinking up the room.

Luckily, lemon water comes to the rescue. In addition to being effective against mucous, the acids in lemon juice can kill the bad breath bacteria in your mouth. Take caution, however, to avoid excess: acidic substances, even natural ones, may erode tooth enamel if consumed too often or in too high concentrations. Nonetheless, whether going to a meeting or polishing off Thanksgiving dinner, you can now speak (and breathe) easy.

Less UTI Pain

Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are bacterial infections that cause immense pain during urination. This pain is caused by the acid in the urine itself, which the body alkalizes in normal situations.

Thankfully, lemon juice can take care of the alkalization while your body recuperates. Although UTIs must be treated with antibiotics, lemon water can ease the pain. In all, it can make your day much less irritating, until you get ahold of a prescription.

Yes, the small price of a lemon can mean big benefits for your body, inside and out. Although research does not suggest that lemon water is the miracle formula for weight loss or detox, it can certainly keep you on track with your healthy lifestyle without being wasteful or breaking the bank.

Sources:

“Lemon Water Can Really Improve Your Morning (And Day).” HuffingtonPost. The Huffington Post, 17 Mar. 2014. Web.

“These 6 Home Remedies for Phlegm Will Have You Breathing Easy in No Time.” SimpleOrganicLife. Simple Organic Life, n. d. Web.

Allen, Jae. “Is Lemon Good for the Bladder and Kidney?” LiveStrong. Demand Media, 18 Dec. 2013. Web.

Brewer, Sarah (Dr.). “Get a breath of fresh air! How to fight halitosis.” Express. Express Newspapers, 25 Mar. 2014. Web.

Nolasco, Stephanie. “Hot Water and Lemon: A Weight Loss Breakfast?” FoxNews. FOX News Network, 18 Jul. 2013. Web.

Sources:

Imam, Jareen.  “Overdue California quake greater than thought, report says.” CNN.  Cable News Network, 15 Mar. 2016.  Web.

Martinez, Michael, Elam, Stephanie, and Nieves, Rosalina.  “The quake-maker you’ve never heard of: Cascadia.” CNN.  Cable News Network, 13 Feb. 2016.  Web.

Nace, Trevor.  “The San Andreas Fault Is On The Brink Of A Devastating Earthquake.”  Forbes.  Forbes, 8 May 2016.  Web.

Sneed, Michelle, Galloway, Devin L., and Cunningham, William L.  “Earthquakes – Rattling the Earth’s Plumbing System.” USGS.  United States Geological Survey, 18 Feb. 2014.  Web.

National Water Quality Month happens in August, but the contamination crisis in Flint, Michigan has placed the topic at the forefront of a months-long debate on the tenacity of water safety claims. Flint, switched its water supply without taking proper precaution, exposing drinkers to lead levels several times above the legal limit.

It is no doubt that this is an extreme example, but that doesn’t mean it cannot happen elsewhere. Still today, millions of Americans still don’t know the true state of their tap water. While no estimate can speak for every citizen, the idea is worth exploring.

Tap water has a bad rap. Even in metropolitan regions, cautious diners demand bottled water at restaurants, and health-conscientious students refuse to use school water fountains. This is driven by the rampant assumption that tap water is dirtier than its bottled counterpart, even if marginal evidence backs the claim.

While individuals may take their suspicion of tap water to extremes, they aren’t totally without reason; Flint is not the only city measuring lead at crisis levels. In fact, the potent neurotoxin was detected at above-recommended averages in more than 5,000 water systems in 2015. More shocking, only ten percent of these measurements were reported to higher authorities, and only thirty percent of those municipalities reported received any penalty at all. Yes, this means that millions of Americans were (and still are) consuming lead via tap water, posing imminent risks to small children and the elderly.

We could point to the irony that municipal tap water undergoes over 100 tests, on average, per month, but we would ignore the fact that these tests are not wholly representative. Large populations and small municipal labor forces require that testers sample only a small number of homes and, in some neighborhoods, make concessions for water delivered through aged pipes. This process, which saves the city time and money in the short-term, may carry the long-term costs of citizen health and water system upkeep.

Municipal measurements also do not account for lead and other chemicals in non-public water systems, like wells and private sources serviced by a pump. As most of these sources are located in extremely rural regions, they are also host to a number of problems not encountered in more urban environments.

Agricultural runoff is the most prevalent hazard, especially in the Midwest. Arriving in the form of animal waste, pesticides, and fertilizers, agricultural substances have the potential to cause birth defects, hormonal disruptions, allergies, or heart disease in those who consume it regularly. Moreover, the CDC has not determined lethal or dangerous criteria for many of these chemicals; if you do order a test for your private water system, it is hard to establish a point of comparison regarding what is and what is not safe for you and your family.

The dangers of tap water beg the question: is bottled water really better?

In short, it depends on what you buy and where you live. Bottled water is screened about once per week, however, it undergoes more rigorous sanitation processes than tap water. Bottled water also tastes better to many drinkers and, for some, is essential to staying hydrated. Furthermore, some bottled waters are engineered to contain minerals and electrolytes that benefit the body more than regular tap water, alone.

Still, some bottled waters are not worth the extra money. If derived from a municipal source, they are no different than tap water. Too, if bottles are not used before their expiration date, there is an increased chance that phthalates, hormone – affecting chemicals, may have leaked into the water.

In all, it is best for you, as a consumer, to do your research. Call your water provider for more information on your municipal or private water system. If your family's local water is found to contain unwanted pollutants like heavy metals or agricultural chemicals, there are ways to eliminate them to restore the quality of your drinking water.

The Adya Clarity® Water Purification System reduces up to 4X's more contaminants than conventional countertop filters (like Aquasana), and up to 50X's more than water pitchers (like PUR or Brita), and provides a broad spectrum of natural ionic trace minerals including calcium, magnesium, and potassium. (The same ones added to bottled water to make it taste better.)

Take control of your water quality and avoid environmentally hazardous plastic bottles by opting for a water purification system up to the job of delivering cleaner, healthier, better-tasting water every time you turn on the tap.