Tap Contaminant

Barium

What Is Barium in Tap Water?  

Barium is a naturally occurring element found in the Earth's crust. It is a soft, silvery metal that is mainly used in industries to create materials like glass, paints, and rubber. While barium itself is not inherently harmful in its solid form, it becomes a concern when it dissolves into water. Once dissolved, barium can make its way into groundwater and, eventually, tap water sources.


How Does Barium End Up in Tap Water?

Barium can enter water supplies through both natural and human activities. One of the primary ways this happens is when minerals containing barium dissolve into groundwater as it flows through rocks and soil. Additionally, industrial activities, such as mining, drilling, or improper waste disposal, can contribute to barium contamination in drinking water. Agricultural runoff and the use of barium-containing chemicals also increase its likelihood of entering waterways.


Why Is Barium in Tap Water Concerning?

Barium in water is regulated because long-term exposure to higher concentrations can pose risks. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set a legal limit for barium in drinking water at 2 parts per million (ppm) to ensure water safety. However, organizations like the Environmental Working Group (EWG) recommend a more stringent standard of 0.7 ppm, prioritizing even stricter protection. Water contamination by barium is cause for concern because it highlights the potential vulnerabilities in water treatment systems and natural water quality.


How Can You Address Barium in Your Water?

If you're concerned about barium levels in your drinking water, regular testing is essential. Using a reliable water filtration system designed to remove heavy metals can also help ensure your water stays within safe limits. Staying informed about the quality of your local water supply and understanding potential contaminants like barium is the first step toward protecting yourself and your family.

Health Effects of Barium in Drinking Water

Barium is a naturally occurring element found in water sources, often entering through the erosion of minerals or as a by-product of industrial processes. While its presence in small amounts may not pose an immediate risk, elevated levels of barium in drinking water can have significant health implications. Understanding these risks is essential for maintaining your well-being and ensuring the quality of your water supply.


Short-Term Health Effects

Consuming water with high levels of barium can lead to acute health issues. Short-term exposure may cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In some severe cases, it can result in muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, or irregular heartbeat. These symptoms occur because barium interferes with the body's ability to properly transmit nerve signals and regulate muscle function.


Long-Term Health Effects

Prolonged exposure to elevated barium levels in drinking water can have more serious, chronic health consequences. One of the primary risks is hypertension, or high blood pressure, as barium can disrupt the body’s cardiovascular system. Over time, excessive barium exposure may also affect kidney function, potentially leading to kidney damage. Additionally, there is evidence to suggest that long-term exposure can impair nervous system function.

 

At-Risk Populations

While all individuals are susceptible to the harmful effects of barium, certain populations are at higher risk. This includes children, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing kidney or cardiovascular conditions. These groups may experience more severe health effects even at lower levels of exposure, making it especially important for them to have access to clean, barium-free water.


Safe Drinking Water Practices

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for barium in drinking water at 2 milligrams per liter (mg/L) to minimize health risks. Regular testing of your water supply and the use of appropriate water filtration systems can help reduce barium contamination. Reverse osmosis and ion exchange filtration systems are particularly effective at removing barium from drinking water, providing an additional layer of protection for your health.


Conclusion

Ensuring your drinking water is free from harmful levels of barium is critical to protecting your health. Both short-term and long-term exposure can lead to serious health complications, particularly for vulnerable populations. Routine water testing and implementing suitable filtration solutions are key steps in safeguarding your water quality and overall well-being.

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