What is arsenic?

Arsenic is a naturally occurring element found in water, air, our food, and soil. Since it can be readily found in nature, it can leach into groundwater through rocks and soil. Arsenic can also be found in tobacco products, in pesticides and wood preservatives. It is also releases into the environment in mining processes.

Food absorbs arsenic from the soil and water; low but consistent levels of arsenic can be found in rice and some fish. The majority of arsenic enters the body thorough the ingestion of food or water. Many health care providers are concerned about the long range health effects of low-level exposures, especially for children who are exposed to arsenic from foods and water.

Winnebago County

Many Winnebago County residents (40%) obtain their water from private wells. Arsenic in groundwater is a widespread problem in the county.

What is fluoride?

Fluoride is found naturally in soil, water, and foods. The fluoride added to drinking water, toothpaste, mouthwashes and various chemical products is a synthetically made product. It can reduce the prevalence of tooth decay and it is added to public water supplies. Too much of a good thing however can also have negative health outcomes. In the case of fluoride, an excess of this element can also cause dental, bone and thyroid issues. Children living in households with private wells are often prescribed fluoride pills during their early development years at specific dosages.

What is nitrate?

Nitrate is a naturally occurring compound found in nature and many food items (beets carrots, lettuce, spinach for example). The largest source of nitrates in water comes from nitrogen-based fertilizers that get into shallow drinking water wells. Nitrates may also enter the water from animal wastes and poor working sewer systems. When high levels of nitrates are consumed, it reduces the ability of blood to carry oxygen to all parts of the body causing the skin to have a blue tinge to it. If oxygen cannot be transported by the blood, the infant can asphyxiate. Infants are the most susceptible to this condition, especially infants who are bottle-fed and consuming formula made with nitrate contaminated water. Water high in nitrates should not be used for preparing infant formula or other food to be consumed by a baby.