New regulations on ‘forever chemicals’ in drinking water

TAMPA (BLOOM) – Dr. David Berger, a Board-certified pediatrician, joins Gayle Guyardo, host of the national health and wellness program Bloom, to discuss new regulations regarding “forever chemicals” in drinking water.

Berger says “forever chemicals” can often be found on non-stick cookware and other similar surfaces. These chemicals have been found to be linked to various diseases such as liver cancer, kidney cancer, high blood pressure, fertility problems, and more.

Recently, the EPA, or Environmental Protection Agency, ordered all local water systems to be tested. Guidelines on specific permitted amounts of these chemicals have become the basis for action. Berger says no warnings have been issued about microplastics and other chemicals. However, these chemicals are also closely linked to all kinds of diseases.

“The molecules are so small that they can penetrate the tissues of every cell… which disrupts the function of the cells,” Berger explains.

Clean and safe drinking water is extremely important to our overall health. Berger claims that water is the substance of our life. We consist mainly of water and we drink it every day.

“The healthier you are, the more likely you are to be exposed,” he recalls.

He also mentions that only 11 or 12 states have actually ordered the EPA to test community water systems. It is estimated that only 5-10% of countries completely ignore this problem and do not take these numbers into account at all.

“It could be another 3-5 years before it is removed from the water system,” exclaims Berger.

When asked what citizens can do to prevent the effects caused by these chemicals, Berger highlights one solution in particular: an activated carbon filter. These filters are installed in your water system before being placed in your home. Activated charcoal acts as a binder, preventing chemicals from penetrating forever. Another filtration system mentioned is reverse osmosis, which can impact the spread of both plastics and “forever chemicals.”

Guyardo asks about the price of these systems, and Berger admits that they are expensive compared to preventive methods. He mentions the use of plastic water bottles and the number of particles found. Drinking from glass or stainless steel, as opposed to plastic containers, can act as a barrier. Berger explains that this is as safe as filtration systems.

“In one liter… 240,000 particles were found,” says Berger.

One of the last issues raised is fluoride in water. Fluoride acts as protection against tooth decay. Berger says a study recently published in the Journal of the AMA shows that fluoride levels in pregnant women are directly related to neurodevelopmental disorders.