Tag: Are you drinking plastic or water? Here are 5 ways to ensure you drink healthy water

Plastic is everywhere! It has seamlessly integrated into every aspect of our lives, from bottled water to pre-cut veggies, infiltrating our on-the-go snacks and convenient hydration solutions. 

And in our busy lifestyle, who doesn’t appreciate a quick fix? Whether it’s a protein bar for breakfast, or reaching for that bottled water when we forget our own bottle, convenience often comes first. The problem is these seemingly convenient choices all come wrapped in plastic packaging containing microscopic plastic particles. 

A recent study published in the journal – Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences – uncovered a shocking fact: a single plastic bottle, holding just 1 litre of water can contain a staggering 2,40,000 nanoplastic fragments. These nearly invisible particles, smaller than microplastics, raise concerns about their potential health impacts, as they can bypass our digestive system and enter the bloodstream easily.

Even past studies found microplastics in 93% of bottled water brands, with the average bottle containing 60 times more microplastics than tap water. The health implications of ingesting such significant quantities of microplastics and nanoplastics are still being researched, but existing research links them to inflammation, cell damage, hormonal disruption, digestive issues, and reproductive problems.

In the face of these alarming findings, what can one do? The solution is both simple and impactful: try to reduce the use of plastic bottles as much as possible. Here are some practical steps to break free from the reliance on plastic water bottles:

Invest in a reusable bottle: Consider buying a durable, reusable water bottle made from materials such as stainless steel or glass. Stainless steel and glass are not only recyclable, but also have a longer lifespan compared to plastic. This choice also helps in reducing the environmental impact associated with manufacturing and disposing of single-use plastics.

Hydrate responsibly: Fill your water bottle at home with water from your water purifier to avoid plastic contamination on the go.

Carry a bottle everywhere: Make it a habit of bringing your reusable bottle wherever you go. Keep it in your car, at your workplace or in your bag. Having it readily available reduces the temptation to buy single-use plastic bottles when you’re on the move.

Reduce single-use plastics: Actively decline single-use plastic bottles whenever possible. By consciously refusing them, you not only reduce your personal plastic consumption, but also send a message about the importance of sustainable choices. Encourage friends, family and colleagues to join in the effort to minimise single-use plastics.

Support sustainable brands:  Seek out businesses that are all about sustainability. Many brands now offer alternative solutions to single-use plastic bottles. By supporting these initiatives, you contribute to the demand for more sustainable practices, encouraging others to follow suit.

If you follow at least some of these steps, it will be easier to break the habit of relying on plastic water bottles. Always remember that the choice is not just about the quantity of water, but also the quality – for both you and the planet.

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