Why I Use A Water Filter—and Why You Should Too
Clean water is essential for health, and using a filter is a simple yet powerful way to ensure you’re drinking the best. Here's why I use one—and why you should too.
Many of you know me through my work in Postural Restoration®, which is focused on understanding the body’s alignment and correcting natural asymmetries. But as much as I emphasize the importance of posture, my approach to wellness extends well beyond that. True health isn’t just about fixing how we stand or move; it’s about creating a holistic environment where your body can thrive. The food you eat, the air you breathe, and the water you drink all play vital roles in achieving and maintaining that balance.
One key element often overlooked is the water we consume daily. Think of it this way: your body is already working hard to maintain balance, whether through your nervous system, muscles, or posture. Introducing toxins from unfiltered water makes that job even harder. That's why water filtration is one of the simplest and most impactful steps you can take to support your health, protect your body from environmental stress, and help it function optimally.
What Really Is In Your Tap Water..? (NYC Addition)
New York City is often touted for having some of the best tap water in the country, sourced from pristine upstate reservoirs. While it’s true that the water is generally treated and meets federal safety standards, there are still hidden risks that could impact your health. Here’s a closer look at some of the concerns that you might not be aware of when it comes to NYC tap water:
Chlorination Byproducts
Chlorine is widely used to disinfect tap water and kill harmful bacteria. However, when chlorine reacts with organic matter, it forms chlorinated byproducts, including trihalomethanes (THMs) and chloroform. These byproducts can be harmful to your health, especially when consumed over extended periods. Studies have shown that these chemicals can increase the risk of cancer and other long-term health issues. According to reports, NYC tap water contains chloroform levels as high as 30.9 parts per billion, which is 30 times higher than the health guideline set by expertstamination**
While NYC's water treatment plants deliver lead-free water, lead can still leach into the water supply from aging pipes within buildings. This is especially a concern for residents living in older buildings with outdated plumbing systems. Lead exposure can be particularly harmful to children, causing developmental delays, cognitive issues, and various other health complications. Even low levels of lead exposure have been linked to learning disabilities, lower IQs, and behavioral problems in children . This type of contamination remains a significant concern in many urban areas, not just NYC.
Emerging Contaminants
In addition to the more commonly known contaminants like chlorine and lead, emerging pollutants have become a growing concern. Pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and microplastics have all been detected in NYC tap water. These pollutants enter the water system through various pathways, such as runoff from farms or pharmaceuticals being flushed down drains. Currently, these emerging contaminants are not fully regulated, leaving gaps in water quality control. As research continues to show, long-term exposure to such substances could potentially have adverse effects on human health . These contaminants are out using conventional water treatment methods, which is why filtration systems are so critical for ensuring safe drinking water.
While NYC tap water may be treated and regulated, it still carries hidden risks that could affect your long-term health. Installing a high-quality water filtration system can provide peace of mind, ensuring you and your family are consuming the cleanest, safest water possible. Whether you choose a reverse osmosis system or a gravity-fed filter, filtering out contaminants like chlorine byproducts, lead, and emerging pollutants can be a game-changer for your overall wellness.
Why Water Filters Are Essential
Even if you think NYC water “tastes” good, it’s still likely contaminated with substances that filtration systems can effectively remove. In fact, I don’t even think NYC water tastes all that great! While municipal water treatment aims to make water safe, it’s not perfect, and there are many contaminants that slip through the cracks. Whether you live in a city or a rural area, water filtration is essential for reducing exposure to harmful chemicals and ensuring your water is as clean and healthy as possible. Here are some systems I personally use and recommend:
Bluevua: This reverse osmosis system is highly effective at removing up to 99% of contaminants, including lead, chlorine, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), while retaining beneficial minerals. Its countertop design makes it easy to install and is perfect for home use. (FYI: This is what I currently use!)
ProOne: Known for their gravity-fed systems, ProOne filters are excellent at removing fluoride, heavy metals, chlorine, and other harmful substances. These filters are non-electric, portable, and incredibly easy to maintain, making them a great option for those who need flexibility and convenience. (I personally used this for 2+ years, and my sister uses it now!)
AquaTru: AquaTru is another fantastic reverse osmosis system that filters out 83 contaminants, including lead, chlorine, fluoride, pesticides, and more. Its compact countertop design offers a four-stage filtration process, ensuring high-level water purity without taking up too much space. AquaTru is an excellent choice for those who want clean, purified water with minimal effort.
PristineHydro: When it comes to my shower, I use the PristineHydro filter, which is designed to remove chlorine, chloramine, and other contaminants from your shower water. This filter is crucial for preventing skin irritation and minimizing harmful absorption of chemicals through the skin during showers. I love that it helps keep my skin and hair healthier, making a noticeable difference compared to untreated water.
These water filtration systems are vital because they target contaminants that municipal water treatment can’t fully eliminate. Whether it’s chlorine byproducts, lead, or emerging pollutants like pesticides and microplastics, filtration helps ensure the water you drink, cook with, and even bathe in is truly safe. Investing in quality water filters can be one of the most impactful steps you take for your health.
Not All Filters Are Equal
While there are many water filtration options on the market, it’s essential to be informed about which ones truly work. Brita filters, for example, are popular, but they’re far less effective than many people realize. Brita’s filters primarily reduce chlorine and some heavy metals, but they don’t remove fluoride, lead, or other potentially harmful substances. Their carbon filters are useful for improving taste but do little to address deeper contaminants like pesticides or microplastics (Time Out Worldwide)
Another filter brand that gained attention recently is Berkey, which has been at the center of controversy. While Berkey filters are known for their ability to remove a wide range of contaminants, the company faced legal challenges in 2022 for making claims about the filter’s ability to remove viruses without providing sufficient evidence. Berkey settled the case, and while their filters are still widely used, this controversy serves as a reminder that not all claims made by manufacturers are backed by solid scientific data!
Installing a water filter may seem like a small step, but the impact over time is undeniable. Clean, filtered water isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity for hydration, detoxification, and overall vitality. When you filter out toxins, your body is better able to focus on maintaining balance and health. The cumulative benefits of drinking purified water over time include improved digestion, enhanced energy, better skin health, and greater overall wellness.
Whether you choose a Bluevua, ProOne, or AquaTru filtration system, you’re making an investment in your health. These filters provide peace of mind and ensure that the water you consume is as pure as possible. By incorporating water filtration into your routine, you’re aligning with a holistic approach to wellness—one that prioritizes your body’s natural needs.
Wellness Through Clean Water: A Holistic Approach to Health
Postural Restoration is about understanding your body’s alignment and correcting asymmetries. My philosophy of wellness is about taking care of the whole body. Proper hydration plays a crucial role in your overall health, and ensuring you’re drinking clean water is one of the simplest yet most powerful steps you can take.
The human body works best when it's not burdened by toxins. By investing in a high-quality water filtration system, you’re supporting your body in its natural efforts to stay balanced. As I always stress in my practice, wellness requires a comprehensive approach, and every step you take—whether improving your posture, eating better, or drinking cleaner water—contributes to better overall health. ❤️
A Note on My Recommendations
I want to clarify that I don’t have any discounts or affiliate relationships with the products I’ve mentioned in this article. I do not make any money from promoting them. I simply use these filters in my own daily life because I believe in their ability to provide clean, safe water—and I want to share that knowledge with you! My goal is to help you make informed choices about your health and wellness, without any external incentives.
This is about supporting your body in the best way possible—because your health is worth it.
Keep Learning,
💛Aleena