The Importance of Safe and Clean Drinking Water for Health and Well-being

Francesca Rubino^*
*Correspondence: Francesca Rubino, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of California, Berkeley, USA, Email:

Introduction

Drinking water is one of the most essential and basic human needs. It is the most basic and critical element necessary for human survival. Access to safe and clean drinking water is crucial for maintaining good health and well-being. Drinking water has many important functions in the body, including regulating body temperature, maintaining healthy skin and helping with digestion [1,2].

Description

Water makes up a significant portion of the human body and it is essential to drink enough water every day to maintain proper bodily functions. The amount of water a person needs to drink can vary depending on their age, gender, activity level and other factors. The general guideline is to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day, which is equivalent to about two liters or half a gallon of water. Drinking water that is not safe can cause a variety of health problems, including gastrointestinal illness, infections and even death. Waterborne illnesses can be caused by bacteria, viruses and parasites that can be found in contaminated water. These illnesses can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea and fever. In many parts of the world, access to safe and clean drinking water is not always readily available. According to the World Health Organization, over 2 billion people lack access to safe drinking water and over 800,000 people die each year from water-related diseases [3].

Water can be contaminated by a variety of sources, including sewage, industrial waste and agricultural runoff. In areas where water treatment is not available or inadequate, the risk of contamination is much higher. In these cases, boiling water before drinking or using water filters can be effective in reducing the risk of illness. Many countries have implemented water quality standards to ensure that the water people drink is safe. These standards vary depending on the country and the level of development. In developed countries, water treatment and distribution systems are usually well-established and monitored regularly to ensure water quality. In developing countries, however, access to safe drinking water is often limited and water quality may not be monitored as frequently. In addition to contamination, the taste and odor of water can also affect whether people want to drink it or not. Water that has a foul taste or odor can be unappealing and may deter people from drinking it. In some cases, this can lead to dehydration and other health problems [4].

Water can be treated to improve its taste and odor, as well as its safety. Common treatment methods include chlorination, filtration and UV radiation. These methods can remove or kill harmful bacteria and other contaminants, as well as improve the taste and odor of water. Drinking water can also have benefits beyond just maintaining hydration. For example, water can help with weight loss by reducing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness. Drinking water before meals can also help with digestion and prevent overeating. Additionally, drinking water can help with kidney function, regulate blood pressure and improve overall brain function. However, it is important to note that drinking excessive amounts of water can also be harmful. Over hydration can lead to a condition called hyponatremia, which is when there is an imbalance of electrolytes in the body. This can cause symptoms such as headache, nausea and confusion and in severe cases, can lead to seizures and even death [5].

Conclusion

In conclusion, drinking water is a basic human need that is essential for maintaining good health and well-being. Access to safe and clean drinking water is crucial, as contaminated water can cause a variety of health problems. While the amount of water a person needs to drink can vary depending on several factors, it is generally recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Treatment methods such as chlorination, filtration and UV radiation can be effective in improving the safety and taste of water.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

There are no conflicts of interest by author.

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