Natural Organic Water Contaminants

There are many organic water contaminants that occur naturally in our drinking water. Bacteria, protozoa, and viruses live in the air, soil, and water all around us, and our bodies are mostly successful at protecting us from the harmful effects of these contaminants. When we do experience mild symptoms such as diarrhea, cramps, and gastrointestinal discomfort from organic water contaminants, we usually write it off as a mild flu and we feel better after a day or two.

However, occasionally these contaminants can cause severe symptoms and even death. The World Health Organization estimates that between five and ten million people, mostly children, die each year from waterborne diseases. This article will outline the most common naturally occurring organic water contaminants and their effects on our bodies.

Bacteria

Viruses

Protozoa

Summary

The symptoms from ingesting organic water contaminants (nausea, headache, vomiting, and cramps) are consistent with what we commonly associate with influenza, and every one of us is affected from time to time. These contaminants occur in drinking water everywhere from public water systems to private wells, and occasional outbreaks make headlines in newspapers all over the world.

The best way to prevent these pathogens from getting into our bodies is by using a variety of commercially available water filters that range from simple water pitcher filters to whole house filtering systems. In fact, the water filtration industry is booming as more and more of us seek our own solutions for protecting ourselves and our families from waterborne illnesses.