According to the EPA, tap water is tested rigorously under the National Primary Drinking Regulations (NPDR) for 90 different contaminants. These contaminants are listed under the following categories: microorganisms, disinfectants and their byproducts, inorganic chemicals, organic chemicals, and radionuclides. All of these substances can be harmful to humans when consumed, ingested, or otherwise come into contact with at high concentrations.

Certain substances are also added to tap water in an effort to keep it clean and relatively healthy, per Healthline. Fluoride is added to prevent tooth decay, for instance, and small trace amounts of chloride and chloramine are added to kill harmful bacteria in the water. 

Tap water also contains amounts of potassium, iron, phosphorus, and zinc, all of which can slightly alter the taste of tap water but are not harmful when consumed at appropriate levels. 

If you still feel apprehensive about drinking tap water — maybe because you don’t trust the tap water being served at your local restaurant or you have underlying health conditions — make sure to talk to your doctor and give the EPA a call.

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Originally Appeared Here