How to Remove Nitrates from Water

What Are Nitrates?

Nitrates (NO₃⁻) are naturally occurring compounds composed of nitrogen and oxygen. They are an integral part of the nitrogen cycle and are commonly found in soil, plants, and water. While nitrates are relatively stable, nitrites are more reactive and can form under certain conditions.

What Are the Symptoms of Ingesting Nitrates?

High levels of nitrates or nitrites in drinking water can cause a condition called methemoglobinemia, commonly known as “blue baby syndrome.” This occurs when nitrites convert hemoglobin in the blood to methemoglobin, which cannot effectively carry oxygen. Symptoms of methemoglobinemia include the following.

Bluish skin or lips (cyanosis)
Difficulty breathing
Fatigue and lethargy
Dizziness or headaches
In severe cases, loss of consciousness and death

While infants under six months old are most at risk, adults with certain medical conditions or those exposed to very high levels of these compounds may also experience adverse effects.

Long Term Risks of Ingesting Nitrates?

Long-term exposure to nitrates, particularly in high concentrations, poses several health risks. These risks depend on the exposure source, such as contaminated water, food, or occupational settings. Key long-term risks include:

Cancer: Nitrates can convert into nitrites and then to nitrosamines in the body, substances linked to increased risks of stomach, esophageal, and other cancers.
Thyroid Dysfunction: Long-term nitrate exposure may interfere with iodine uptake, potentially leading to goiter or hypothyroidism.
Cardiovascular Issues: Elevated nitrate levels may contribute to hypertension and other heart-related conditions.
Reproductive and Developmental Effects: In some studies, chronic exposure to high nitrate levels has been linked to adverse reproductive outcomes and developmental delays.
Kidney Damage: Prolonged exposure may strain kidney function, particularly in individuals with pre-existing conditions.
Immunosuppression: Chronic exposure might weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections.
Neurological Disorders: Some research suggests that long-term exposure could have subtle impacts on cognitive function and nervous system health.

Avoiding excessive exposure, particularly through drinking water or high-nitrate foods, is essential to mitigating these risks. If exposure is suspected, regular water testing and medical consultation are advised.

EPA Limits on Nitrates in Water

The EPA standard (Limit) for nitrate is 10.0 ppm of nitrate as nitrogen). The EPA standard for Nitrite is 1.0 nitrite as nitrogen. Nitrates in tap water are cause for concern and need to be removed prior to drinking. If you suspect you have nitrates in your well water or tap water, have it tested. The EPA Primary Standard for nitrate is 10.0 mg/L (ppm) as nitrogen. (Federal limit is not a safe level)

How Do Nitrates Get into Drinking Water

Nitrates are intentionally introduced into our environment for agricultural use. This is anywhere that field crops are been planted and harvested. This includes fields of corn, wheat, soybeans, alfalfa etc. It would also include fruits and vegetables that are grown for commercial production as well as in home gardens. There are many applications for fertilizing turf and other landscape uses, including golf courses and parks, etc. as well as home landscapes. Some nitrates are intentionally used for making explosives.

Agricultural Runoff: Fertilizers rich in nitrates can leach into groundwater or wash into surface water during rainfall. This is a major source of contamination in rural and farming areas.
Wastewater and Sewage: Improperly treated wastewater and leaking septic systems can introduce nitrates and nitrites into drinking water supplies.
Natural Sources: Decomposing organic matter can release nitrates into the soil, which may eventually seep into groundwater.
Industrial Discharges: Factories and industrial plants may release nitrogen-containing compounds into nearby water sources.
Animal Waste: Manure from livestock contains high levels of nitrates and can contaminate water through runoff or direct seepage into groundwater.

States with the Most Nitrates

It is estimated that “nitrate pollution of U.S. drinking water may be responsible for up to 12594 cases of cancer a year.” (Source: EWG.org) The risk of exposure to nitrates is particularly high in states like California, Arizona, Nebraska, Iowa, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Maryland.

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