How does contaminated water affect the digestive system?

Water is an important aspect of human life and is responsible for maintaining overall health. Whether it’s plain water or flavored water or water with fruits or vegetables, water works wonders in every way. However, once contaminated, it poses a serious threat to various body functions. When you drink contaminated water, your digestive system is affected and you may suffer from infections and diseases.

According to the World Health Organization, “drinking water contaminated by microorganisms can spread diseases such as diarrhoea, cholera, dysentery, typhoid and poliomyelitis, resulting in an estimated 505,000 diarrheal deaths each year.”

Dr Sudeep Khanna, senior consultant gastroenterologist, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi said, “Water pollution can have a major impact on digestive health, leading to various gastrointestinal diseases. Pathogens present in contaminated water such as E. coli, salmonella and campylobacter , can induce gastroenteritis, causing abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting and nausea, disrupt intestinal flora, and may lead to serious problems. Heavy metals in water, such as lead, arsenic and mercury, can cause chronic abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, and have adverse effects on Long-term damage is caused to vital organs such as the liver and kidneys. The gastrointestinal tract is the primary route of toxin absorption and is particularly susceptible to the adverse effects of toxins, which may cause long-term stomach disease.”

Dr. Khanna further said, “For example, pesticides and industrial chemicals can affect digestive health and cause gastrointestinal diseases such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Long-term exposure to these substances can disrupt the normal function of the digestive system, produce gastrointestinal inflammation and irritation and increased risk of chronic gastrointestinal disease.”

“Access to clean and safe drinking water is therefore critical to limiting the hazards of water pollution. Implementing appropriate water filtration systems and regularly monitoring water sources can help prevent the absorption of dangerous contaminants. Raise awareness and educate communities about water quality. The health dangers associated with contaminated water are critical to gut health. Individuals can protect themselves from waterborne toxins and disease by prioritizing water safety and taking necessary precautions.”

Contaminated water is often a breeding ground for infections like E. coli, and drinking these bacteria can wreak havoc on your digestive system. E. coli infection can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. While these symptoms can be treated with medication, in some cases, they can cause serious damage to a person’s health and may require hospitalization.

Parasites are another type of waterborne contaminant that can enter the human digestive system through drinking contaminated water. Protozoal infections can cause gastrointestinal problems, including chronic diarrhea and abdominal pain. In fact, these infections can also trigger vomiting and lead to extreme dehydration. Infections with these parasites can also lead to reduced nutrient absorption, which may lead to nutritional deficiencies.

Industrial emissions, improper waste disposal, etc. can also cause water contamination, leading to pollution. When consumed, these chemicals can disrupt the balance of enzymes and beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract and intestines. Water contaminated by chemical emissions can impair the digestive process, lead to hospitalization and cause long-term damage to the body.

Contaminated water can also compromise the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infection and disease. A weakened immune system is unable to fight off attacks by harmful bacteria and parasites introduced through contaminated water. Not only does this exacerbate immediate digestive problems, it also fails to prevent further infections and other chronic problems.

Diarrhea is a common symptom of waterborne infections and can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Loss of fluids and essential electrolytes disrupts the balance important for normal digestion. The resulting electrolyte imbalance can lead to muscle cramps, weakness, and fatigue, further worsening the body’s ability to maintain healthy digestive function.

It is necessary to ensure that your water is free from contaminants and contamination to ensure good health. First, water testing can be conducted regularly to detect contaminants and promote improved hygiene practices in both urban and rural areas. Additionally, agricultural practices that minimize toxic runoff are appropriate for people living in semi-rural areas. If this is not possible, make sure to add water purification equipment to your home, such as a filtration system (RO).

If you live in an area with higher water toxicity, it’s important to double boil to remove any impurities.