In 2013, a study was conducted by the University of Rochester Medical Center that linked copper to Alzheimer’s Disease. Alzheimer’s Disease is a form of dementia that worsens over time and affects cognitive thinking, memory and behavior. Alzheimer’s Disease affects more than 5 million Americans, and is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States, according ALZ.org.
Traces of copper can be found in food and water. According to the study, copper reduces the ability to flush proteins from the brain and instead encourages these proteins to clump together.
As a water professional, I understand it is unusual for copper to be naturally present in water at high levels. Typically, copper is introduced into a water supply via acid water and low PH levels. A neutral PH level is 7. Anything below 7 is considered corrosive and acid. Acids are oxidizing agents that make metals, such as copper, corrode after long exposures. Low PH is not only an issue with copper, but also with lead. Therefore, it is critical for water quality to be tested at least every other year to ensure contaminants are not present.
Here at Northeast Water Wells Inc., we recommend water is checked for bacteria yearly and for general organic and inorganic materials bi-yearly. In addition, a comprehensive scan should be performed every three to five years. Extensive testing, including a Volatile Organic Scan, should be conducted every seven to 10 years.
Don’t hesitate to give us a call if you live in Massachusetts or New Hampshire. Our office is happy to answer any questions you may have about water quality, testing, copper or other trace amounts of materials found in water.
For more information about the study, visit http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/265012.php
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