I need to see this peer-reviewed data.”
A chiropractor claims on Instagram that showering for 10 minutes is equivalent to drinking eight glasses of chlorinated water.
Daniel Pompa (@drppompahealth) posted a video warning his audience against exposure to chlorine, saying it’s not just in the water you drink, but also in the water you bathe in.
Its video, which has been viewed over 587,000 times, claims that showering can expose the body to even higher levels of chlorine than tap water.
What she says about chlorine exposure
Ms. Pompa starts her video with a bold statement: “Did you know that a 10-minute shower is the same as drinking eight glasses of chlorinated water?”
She explains that your skin soaks up chlorine when you shower and says that breathing in chlorinated water vapour can be harmful.
Then he suggests a solution: “You can buy a $50 carbon filter that really cuts the levels. Even better, buy a whole-house filtration system.”
So, is there any truth to this?
Chlorine is used a lot to disinfect public water supplies, and while it kills harmful bacteria, some people are concerned about the effects of prolonged exposure.
Research has shown that chlorine can evaporate during showers and be inhaled, which can expose people to chloroform, a by-product of chlorination. (Via)
The EPA says that pretty much every home in the US has some chloroform in the air because of the chlorine in shower water. (Via)
But the CDC says that the levels used for drinking water filtration are safe for us. (Via)
If you’re worried about the amount of chlorine you’re getting, carbon filters can help.
The Minnesota Department of Health says activated carbon filtration can reduce chlorine levels, but how well it works depends on things like water temperature and filter quality. (Via)
Commentators share their thoughts
In the comments, internet users didn’t seem too bothered by the question.
“How can my grandma make it to 100?” one user joked.
“Everything’s a problem for this guy, he can’t eat, drink or do anything,” said another.
“I need to see this peer-reviewed data,” said a third.