We've been watching the debate about fluoride so long now that we've forgotten the chlorine debate.Chlorine is a carcinogen, but we don't know at what level of addition to a water supply it becomes carcinogenic. This very recent study summary puts it well:
"The author concludes that the uncertainties surrounding possible health risks from chlorination DBPs appear not to be appreciated by many of those involved in drinking water regulation, production or research."
Doesn't really inspire confidence, does it?
We have seen several instances in recent years where drought conditions in capital cities has caused a concentration of parasites in the reservoir, prompting water engineers to drastically increase chlorine dosage. Where you are really affected is in the shower.
On the same note, I read last week of a school swimming carnival in the UK where management forgot to turn on the ventilation. The combination of chlorine with urine and sweat created clouds of chloramine gas which had the young competitors reeling. Of course w ehave nothing to fear, I guess.. unless we pee in the shower...
Chlorine is a gas, and is released in the shower cubicle in far greater volume than in drinking or rinsing water. That's why so many health professionals are still trying to tell people to install a chlorine shower filter.
We've had one installed for years and whenever we travel we are amazed at the chlorine we smell - and breathe in - as we shower. What it even more amazing is the fact that before we had our trusty Sprite filter, we thought it was OK to get gassed every morning.
Take a look at the Sprite
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