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Water is life. Yet, for many of us, the quality of the water we drink daily is an overlooked concern. Living in Iowa, surrounded by lush farmland and sprawling fields, I’ve grown increasingly aware of the potential contaminants in our water due to pesticide and fertilizer runoff. This realization led me to invest in a reverse osmosis (RO) water filtration system for our home in Des Moines. While it’s not a whole-house system, it’s a solid step toward ensuring that at least our drinking water is safe, clean, and enjoyable.
In this blog post, I’ll dive into the importance of staying hydrated with quality filtered water, explore different filtration options (including reverse osmosis and countertop carbon filters), and discuss why water quality matters now more than ever. Plus, I’ll share some top podcasts I’ve found incredibly insightful on this subject.
Why Hydration Matters
Staying hydrated is critical for every aspect of our health. Proper hydration helps regulate body temperature, lubricate joints, deliver nutrients to cells, and support organ function. Drinking enough water is essential, but drinking clean water is just as important.
Consuming contaminated water can lead to short- and long-term health issues, including gastrointestinal illnesses, developmental problems, and even chronic diseases. It’s not just about quenching your thirst—it’s about ensuring the water you drink contributes to your overall wellness.
The State of Water Quality in Iowa
Living in Iowa, I’ve slowly learned to appreciate the beauty and abundance of this state. But with that abundance comes challenges—namely, agricultural runoff. Fertilizers, pesticides, and other chemicals used in farming often find their way into local waterways, potentially contaminating drinking water supplies.
According to research, nitrate levels in Iowa’s water systems are a significant concern, with some areas exceeding safe limits. Nitrates, a byproduct of agricultural runoff, can pose severe health risks, particularly to infants and pregnant women. According to the Iowa Cancer Registry, “Iowa has the second highest rate of new cancers in the U.S”. (Click here to read the report)
This growing awareness led me to question what was coming out of our tap and ultimately motivated me to invest in a reverse osmosis system.
Why I Chose a Reverse Osmosis System
Reverse osmosis (RO) is one of the most effective methods for filtering water. It works by forcing water through a semi-permeable membrane, which removes contaminants like nitrates, lead, chlorine, and other harmful substances. Here are a few reasons I opted for this system:
- Comprehensive Filtration: RO systems remove up to 99% of contaminants, including nitrates and other chemicals commonly found in Iowa’s water supply.
2. Better Taste: Filtered water tastes fresher and cleaner, making it more enjoyable to drink.
3. Peace of Mind: Knowing that my family is drinking water free from harmful contaminants is priceless.
While I currently have an RO system for our drinking water, upgrading to a whole-house system is my long-term goal. This would provide protection for all the water in our home, including showers and laundry—important for reducing exposure to contaminants through skin absorption and inhalation. This is the exact RO system we bought: Home Master TMHP HydroPerfection Reverse Osmosis System, https://amzn.to/4f0a3P0. It took about an hour to set up and another 2 hours for the tank to fill, and then we were sipping on the clean, sweet nectar of life. The flow rate is pretty quick too. My brother and sister-in-law were eager to add it to their kitchen as well.
Budget-Friendly Alternatives: Carbon Filters
If an RO system isn’t in your budget, there are less expensive options like countertop carbon filters or under-sink filtration systems. Carbon filters are great for:
- Reducing Chlorine: They improve the taste and odor of water by removing chlorine and its byproducts.
- Filtering Out Sediments: These filters can also capture larger particles, making your water clearer and safer.
- Affordability: Carbon filters are cost-effective and easy to install.
Brands like Brita, PUR, and Berkey offer reliable filtration options for those looking to enhance water quality without the expense of an RO system. This is the filter my husband bought for his work and it’s been wonderful: Waterdrop Gravity-fed Water Filter System, https://amzn.to/41ezmtw Complete night and day difference in the quality and taste compared to the tap water in Clarion, IA. Extremely easy set up too.
Podcasts That Changed My Perspective on Water
Podcasts have been an incredible resource for learning about water quality and hydration. Here are two of my top recommendations:
How to Optimize Your Water Quality & Intake for Health In this episode, Andrew Huberman dives into the essential role of water in our health, discussing how it supports cellular function, mental focus, and physical performance. He covers hydration needs, the impact of exercise and caffeine, the truth about pH and alkaline water, and how to test and filter tap water for safety. Learn how to optimize your hydration and choose the best water for your body and brain.
The Root Cause of Metabolic Dysfunction w/ Dr. Casey Means
This episode explores the benefits of reducing processed foods and focusing on whole, nutrient-rich animal and plant-based options to enhance your diet and overall well-being.
Living in the Land of Plenty: Why We Shouldn’t Fear Our Water
It’s frustrating that in a country as developed as the United States, we have to worry about the safety of our drinking water. Clean water should be a basic right, not a privilege. Yet, many Americans face issues with contaminants like lead, nitrates, and PFAS (forever chemicals).
Investing in a water filtration system is a step toward taking control of what we put into our bodies. It’s about prioritizing health and well-being, even in the face of systemic challenges.
How to Choose the Right Filtration System for Your Home
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide on a filtration system:
- Assess Your Needs: Are you looking to filter drinking water only, or do you want to protect all the water in your home?
2. Test Your Water: Get your water tested to identify specific contaminants. This will guide you toward the right filtration method.
3. Consider Your Budget: RO systems are more expensive but highly effective. Carbon filters are more affordable but may not remove all contaminants.
4. Research Brands: Look for trusted brands with positive reviews and certifications from organizations like NSF International (formerly known as the National Sanitation Foundation).
Steps I’ve Taken to Improve Our Water Quality
- Installed an RO System: Ensures our drinking water is safe and clean.
- Prioritized Hydration: Encouraged my family to drink more water by making it taste better.
- Educated Myself: Listened to podcasts, read articles, and tested our tap water.
- Planned for the Future: Set a goal to upgrade to a whole-house filtration system.
Small Changes, Big Impact
You don’t have to overhaul your entire water system overnight. Small steps, like adding a countertop filter or investing in an RO system, can significantly impact your health and well-being.
Clean, safe water is essential, and it’s something we should all strive to make a priority. After all, water is the foundation of life—and we deserve to enjoy it without fear.
Final Thoughts
Staying hydrated with quality filtered water is one of the simplest yet most impactful ways to support your health. Whether you’re investing in a reverse osmosis system, opting for a carbon filter, or simply learning more about water quality, every step counts.
Living in Iowa has opened my eyes to the importance of clean water, and I’m grateful for the resources that have helped me make informed decisions. If you’re curious about improving your water quality, I encourage you to start small, educate yourself, and take control of what you consume.
Together, we can make clean water a priority—for ourselves and future generations.
Check out my other posts for more tips on wellness, sustainability, and creating a healthier lifestyle.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blog! Your support and attention truly mean the world to me, and I’m incredibly grateful to have you here on this journey. 💛
