In order to gain a few precious minutes in the kitchen, many of us pour hot water in a saucepan before boiling it. An error that could however harm your health according to Dr. Gérald Kierzek, medical director of True Medical.
Why the hot tap water can represent a danger to health
If tap water is of course drinking in France, its temperature can considerably affect its quality.
“Indeed, a high temperature can promote the transfer in the water of metals which constitute the pipes and the degradation of bacteriological quality”, We learn the site of the Ministry of Health.
A warning, which Dr. Gérald Kierzek validates. “”Yes, hot tap water poses several health problems. Here are 4 to keep in mind. “
High concentration in heavy metals
“Hot water dissolves more metals pipes (lead, copper, zinc) that cold water. These metals can accumulate in the body and cause long -term neurological or renal problems “, warns the medical director of True Medical.
Possible corrosion of installations
“The heat accelerates the corrosion of the pipes, releasing metallic particles and chemical compounds in water”, alerts the doctor.
Beware of water stagnation in the water heater
“Water remains long stored in the hot water tank, promoting the multiplication of bacteria and the degradation of water quality”, underlines Dr Gérald Kierzek.
Legionella … bacteria that love humidity
“These pathogenic bacteria proliferate in poorly maintained hot water networks, particularly between 25 ° C and 45 ° C”, indicates the medical expert.
Tap water: what temperature favor?
“For cooking and consumption, use cold tap water exclusively. It contains fewer contaminants and better keeps its nutritional qualities”, advises the medical director of True Medical. Afterwards, “Let flow for a few seconds: if the water has not been used for a long time, make it sink 30 seconds to 1 minute to evacuate the stagnant water in the pipes “, continues the specialist.
Finally, for pasta or even for other foods, “Heat cold water in your container. Admittedly, this practice is a little longer, but safer for your health”, he concludes.
Some other bad habits to banish
Around the sink, many everyday gestures can contaminate you.
- Neglect the faucet cleaning: “Bacteria tends to accumulate on surfaces. Also, regularly clean the tip of the tap with white vinegar or diluted bleach”;
- Leave stagnant water: “Avoid letting dishes soak for too long or water rump in the sink”;
- Use dirty sponges: “Change your sponges and tea towels regularly, real bacteria nests when they remain damp”;
- Mix uses: “”Never rinse raw meat in the sink without disinfecting, and avoid washing fruits and vegetables in a soiled sink “;
- Forget the maintenance of filters: “”If you have a filter on your tap, change it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to prevent it from becoming a source of contamination “, concludes Dr Gérald Kierzek.