Summary
This short video by Dr. Berg addresses the health concerns associated with chlorine in tap water, including its ability to be absorbed through the skin during showers. He distinguishes between standard chlorine and the more persistent chemical compound chloramine, and recommends specific filtration solutions for each.
Key Takeaways
- Chlorine is absorbed through the skin, making shower exposure a significant source of chlorine intake — not just drinking water.
- Chlorine in tap water is associated with lung problems, increased bladder cancer risk, and decreased immune function.
- Chlorine is notably toxic to fish, despite being deemed safe by the CDC.
- Many water utilities have switched from chlorine to chloramine (chlorine + ammonia), which is more persistent and potentially more toxic.
- Standard activated carbon filters do not remove chloramine — a different filter type is required.
- If your water supply uses chloramine, you need a high-grade catalytic carbon filter.
- It is recommended to contact your water company to find out which disinfectant chemical they use before choosing a filter.
Details
Chlorine vs. Chloramine
- Chlorine is a common water disinfectant that evaporates relatively easily, meaning it dissipates from water over time.
- Chloramine is formed by adding ammonia to chlorine, creating a more chemically stable compound. Because it does not evaporate readily, it remains in the water supply much longer.
- Chloramine is described as more toxic than standard chlorine due to its persistence and chemical properties.
Routes of Exposure
- Most people focus on drinking water as the primary source of chlorine exposure, but Dr. Berg highlights that chlorine and chloramine can be absorbed transdermally (through the skin).
- This makes shower filtration just as important as filtering drinking water, since hot showers open pores and may increase absorption rates.
Health Concerns Mentioned
- Lung problems (potentially linked to inhalation of chlorine vapors, especially in showers)
- Increased risk of bladder cancer
- Suppressed immune system function
Filtration Recommendations
| Water Disinfectant | Recommended Filter |
|---|---|
| Standard Chlorine | High-grade activated carbon filter |
| Chloramine | High-grade catalytic carbon filter |
- Filters can be installed under the sink for drinking/cooking water or as a whole-house system for comprehensive coverage including showers.
- Dr. Berg’s first recommended action is to call your water company to identify which chemical is being used, so you can select the correct filter type.