Dr. Kourosh Maddahi - March 2020

Chlorinated Water

A Hidden Household and Health Danger?

In many communities, chlorine is added to tap water. The idea behind this makes sense: Chlorine kills bacteria and other pathogens in the water, making it safer to consume. However, being a harsh chemical itself, using the word “safer” to describe chlorine raises questions. It is an effective disinfectant and it’s the most common form of water treatment in the world, but should we really ingest it or bathe with it? When you drink from the tap or take a bath or shower — or even brush your teeth — you will likely be exposed to chlorine. People can spend several minutes, if not longer, in the shower, bath, or swimming in a chlorinated pool. This gives the body ample time to absorb the chemicals in the water. You can be exposed to chlorine by drinking chlorine-treated water or absorbing it through the skin. In children, there is a concern the chlorine may impact the development of organs and other tissue in the body.

progress to throat and lung irritation, as well as a cough. Chlorine is also destructive to cells in the body.

According to the Environment Protection Agency (EPA), drinking water should be treated and have a detectable amount of chlorine present. The agency states there should be no more than 4 parts per million. This is what they call acceptable. The EPA also acknowledges that it is toxic. So, what can you do? You can start by checking chlorine levels in your own home’s water. There are water test kits available online and in many retailers. If you are concerned, you can also take steps to dechlorinate your water. One of the easiest ways, though with a higher upfront cost, is with chlorine filters. You can install a filtration system to filter all water coming into your home. Alternatively, tap filters are available. These filters simply adapt to faucets and shower heads. For drinking water, chlorine filters are available for pitchers. These are simple ways to take control of your health and what you consume every day. Refer a friend, get a brighter smile!

For most people, exposure to chlorine results in a variety of minor negative health effects, usually starting with skin and eye irritation, but it can

Brighten up after a cold, dark winter with this fresh and flavorful springtime dish. Pesto Chicken With Blistered Tomatoes

That’s right, every time you refer a friend to Dr. Maddahi, you get one FREE teeth cleaning!

INGREDIENTS •

2 1/2 tbsp olive oil, divided 4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts, pounded to a 1-inch thickness Salt and pepper to taste 1/4 cup whole-wheat panko

• •

2 tbsp Parmesan cheese 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted 6 tbsp spinach pesto 2 cups cherry tomatoes 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced 1 tsp red wine vinegar

Call us today at 888.310.6771 to get started and to start earning your free cleaning!

• • • •

• •

DIRECTIONS 1. In a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tbsp olive oil. 2. Season chicken with salt and pepper, and add it to pan. Cook chicken for 5 minutes on each side, then remove pan from heat. 3. In a bowl, combine panko, Parmesan cheese, and butter. 4. Spread pesto over chicken and top with panko mixture. 5. Broil chicken for 2 minutes on high heat until browned. 6. In a skillet, heat remaining oil over medium-high heat. 7. Add tomatoes and cook for 6 minutes. 8. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly. 9. Season tomato mixture with salt and pepper, and add red wine vinegar. 10. Serve tomatoes with broiled chicken. Inspired by CookingLight.com

If you want to stop receiving the newsletter, call 310.888.7797

www.drmaddahi.com 3

Made with FlippingBook - Online Brochure Maker