Organic chemicals are compounds that contain carbon atoms in their structure and are found in living organisms, plants, animals, and the environment all around us. These compounds are essential to life and the bases for the chemistry of life. However, some organic chemicals can be harmful to your health. A multistage filtration system, like what’s found in our premium alkaline water ionizers, will protect you and your family.
Harmless organic chemicals are used in various applications, including agriculture, medicine, food production, and manufacturing. Organic chemicals are diverse, and some can be helpful like:
1. Amino acids: These organic compounds are the building blocks of proteins and are found in all living organisms.
2. Carbohydrates: These organic compounds are found in plants and provide energy for animals and humans.
3. Lipids: These organic compounds are found in all living cells and are essential for cell structure and function.
4. Terpenes: These organic compounds are found in plants and are responsible for their distinctive odors and flavors. They are also used in many commercial products, including perfumes and essential oils.
5. Alkaloids: These organic compounds are found in plants and have a variety of pharmacological effects. Examples include caffeine, nicotine, and morphine.
6. Phenols: These organic compounds in plants have antiseptic and antioxidant properties. They are also used in many commercial products, including cosmetics and cleaning products.
7. Organic acids: These organic compounds are found in many foods and are responsible for their sour taste. Examples include citric acid and acetic acid.
8. Hydrocarbons: These organic compounds are found in petroleum and natural gas and are used as fuels and feedstocks in the chemical industry.
Some organic chemicals are known to harm human health and the environment, such as certain pesticides, industrial solvents, and pollutants. Here is the list to watch out for:
1. Benzene: This colorless liquid is a carcinogen that can cause leukemia and other cancers.
2. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs): These chemicals were widely used in electrical equipment and other industrial applications until they were banned in the 1970s. They are persistent in the environment and can cause various health problems, including cancer, developmental delays, and immune system damage.
3. Dioxins: These highly toxic compounds are byproducts of industrial processes such as waste incineration and paper production. They can cause various health problems, including cancer, reproductive and developmental problems, and immune system damage.
4. Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): These chemicals are widely used in industrial and consumer products, including nonstick cookware, firefighting foam, and stain-resistant fabrics. They are persistent in the environment and can cause a variety of health problems, including cancer, thyroid disease, and developmental delays.
5. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs): These chemicals are released into the air as gases from various sources, including paints, cleaning products, and gasoline. They can cause a variety of health problems, including respiratory irritation, headaches, and dizziness.
6. Pesticides: These chemicals control pests in agriculture and other settings. Some pesticides are known to be carcinogenic, while others can cause reproductive and developmental problems or harm the nervous system.
Most tap water in the US has some of the nasty organic chemicals in it. The EPA has set “safe” levels for these chemicals, but any exposure isn’t really safe. You should protect yourself and your family with a multistage water filtration system, like what’s in our premium alkaline water ionizers. That way, you won’t lose sleep worrying about what’s in your tap water!
