Water is the most essential part of our lives, and it is generally used in every facet of daily life. It is crucial that our drinking water is pure and safe. Most of us might be aware of the terms hard and soft water. Hard water is basically water that contains high mineral count, which translates into containing large amounts of concentrated calcium and magnesium. 
Although it is generally known and stated by the World Health Organization that there are no risks associated with drinking water, a few studies have proven otherwise. It is possible that other elements found in hard water can be risky, and here are a few conditions that can be worsened due to drinking it.
Cancer
Findings by Taiwanese scientists reveal the potential hazards of hard water, implicating that it could worsen cancer symptoms. It is stated that the presence of calcium and magnesium in hard water is associated with some types of cancer such as colon and gastric cancer.
Diabetes
If you are diabetic, then perhaps hard water is not really the best water to drink. Because of its high levels of magnesium, drinking hard water overtime might precipitate a diabetic state.
Eczema
Particularly with children, studies have shown that being exposed to hard water can have a negative effect on our skin. Soap usually does not go off easily when it is washed with hard water, as the amount of mineral deposits in that water can decrease the moisture of our skin. A reason why the skin feels so dry after washing with hard water.
Reproductive Health
A few studies have suggested a correlation between men’s reproductive health and drinking hard water. Because of the high mineral composition of that water, a negative influence on fertility might occur. A long term exposure to fluoride, for example, can induce poor reproductive health in men.
What to Do if You Have Hard Water in Your Home
Many people now are installing water softening units to avoid drinking and showering using hard water. There are salt units and salt-free units. Salt-based systems work via an ion exchange method, but they might be hazardous for people with high blood pressure issues. If you do not like the salty aftertaste and you are looking for something more suitable for cooking and cleaning, then you can install softeners without salt that would fit your dietary needs. Both systems are useful, but it is recommended to try the salt-free one since it comes with built-in filters and will also have a positive effect on your hair and skin. 
Signs You May Have Hard Water
- You are seeing strange stains in your bathrooms, sinks, and boilers.
- Your pipes are getting clogged.
- Your skin is getting dry.
- Your water tastes funny.
- Your appliances are wearing out too quickly.
There is more to water than just H2O, which is why you need to know exactly what is safe to consume and what is not. Luckily, there are many ways you can have soft water at your home. Water softeners will remove the calcium, magnesium, and other minerals found in hard water that can have harmful effects on your health when used in the long run.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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