Quick Summary:
Price: $89.95
Pros
- Effective Fluoride Reduction: The External Fluoride Shield uses high-grade activated alumina to significantly reduce fluoride levels in your drinking water, helping to mitigate potential health risks associated with fluoride consumption.
- Improves Overall Water Quality: In addition to fluoride, this filter also removes other common contaminants like chlorine, lead, and arsenic, resulting in cleaner, safer, and better-tasting water.
- Easy Installation and Compatibility: The filter is designed for easy installation and is compatible with AlkaViva water ionizers as well as other similar water filtration systems, making it a versatile choice for enhancing your water quality.
- Low Maintenance: The filter requires minimal maintenance, with straightforward filter replacement every 6 to 12 months, ensuring consistent performance without significant upkeep.
- Supports Health Concerns: By reducing fluoride and other contaminants, the External Fluoride Shield can be particularly beneficial for individuals with specific health concerns, such as thyroid issues or families with young children, providing added peace of mind.
Cons
- Limited Lifespan of Filters: The activated alumina filters need to be replaced every 6 to 12 months, which can be an additional ongoing cost for maintaining the system’s effectiveness.
- Specific Installation Requirements: While installation is generally straightforward, the filter is designed to work best with specific water ionizers, which may limit its use with other types of filtration systems without the necessary adapters.
External Fluoride Shield by AlkaViva Review
Water is essential for life, but not all water is created equal. In many regions, fluoride is added to municipal water supplies to promote dental health. While fluoride has its benefits, there is growing concern over its long-term effects on overall health, particularly when consumed in high quantities. For those looking to reduce their fluoride intake, the External Fluoride Shield by AlkaViva offers a reliable solution. This review explores the features, benefits, and effectiveness of this water filtration product, providing an in-depth look at how it can enhance the quality of your drinking water.
What is the External Fluoride Shield by AlkaViva?
The External Fluoride Shield by AlkaViva is a specialized water filter designed to reduce fluoride levels in your drinking water. It is an external filter, meaning it is attached to an existing water ionizer or filtration system, enhancing its fluoride removal capabilities. This filter is particularly useful for those who are concerned about the potential health risks associated with fluoride consumption, offering a simple and effective way to ensure your water is as pure as possible.
How Does the External Fluoride Shield Work?
The External Fluoride Shield uses advanced filtration technology to reduce fluoride content in water. The core of its operation lies in its high-grade activated alumina filter, which is known for its ability to adsorb fluoride ions effectively. As water passes through the filter, the activated alumina attracts and binds the fluoride ions, reducing the overall fluoride concentration in the water that you consume.
This filtration process is not only effective for fluoride but also targets other common water contaminants such as chlorine, lead, and arsenic. The External Fluoride Shield is designed to work in conjunction with AlkaViva’s water ionizers, but it can also be used with other compatible systems, making it a versatile addition to any home water filtration setup.
Health Concerns Associated with Fluoride
Fluoride is often added to public water supplies to help prevent tooth decay, but there is ongoing debate about its safety, particularly concerning its effects on overall health. While small amounts of fluoride can be beneficial for dental health, excessive consumption has been linked to various health issues. Here are some of the key concerns:
Dental Fluorosis
Dental fluorosis is a condition caused by excessive fluoride intake during the early years of life when teeth are still forming. It leads to discoloration and damage to the enamel, manifesting as white spots, streaks, or even brown stains on the teeth. In severe cases, dental fluorosis can cause pitting and damage to the teeth’s structure.
Skeletal Fluorosis
Similar to dental fluorosis, skeletal fluorosis is a condition that affects the bones. Prolonged exposure to high levels of fluoride can lead to joint stiffness, pain, and in severe cases, alterations in bone structure. This condition is more common in areas where the natural fluoride content in water is very high, but it highlights the importance of managing fluoride intake.
Thyroid Dysfunction
There is evidence to suggest that excessive fluoride intake may interfere with thyroid function, particularly in individuals with iodine deficiency. The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, and any disruption to its function can lead to a range of health problems, including weight gain, fatigue, and mood disorders.
Potential Neurotoxicity
Emerging research indicates that fluoride exposure might be linked to neurodevelopmental issues in children. Some studies have suggested that high levels of fluoride in drinking water could be associated with lower IQ scores in children, although this is still a topic of ongoing research and debate.
Benefits of Using the External Fluoride Shield
Given the potential health risks associated with fluoride, many individuals are seeking ways to reduce their exposure. The External Fluoride Shield by AlkaViva offers several benefits for those looking to improve the quality of their drinking water:
Effective Fluoride Reduction
The primary benefit of the External Fluoride Shield is its ability to significantly reduce fluoride levels in your drinking water. By using activated alumina, one of the most effective materials for fluoride removal, this filter can lower fluoride concentrations to safer levels, providing peace of mind for you and your family.
Enhanced Water Purity
In addition to fluoride, the External Fluoride Shield also helps reduce other contaminants commonly found in tap water, such as chlorine, lead, and arsenic. This not only improves the taste and odor of your water but also enhances its overall safety and quality.
Compatibility with Various Systems
The External Fluoride Shield is designed to be used with AlkaViva water ionizers, but its versatility allows it to be compatible with other water filtration systems as well. This means you can easily integrate it into your existing setup, enhancing its filtration capabilities without the need for a complete system overhaul.
Easy Installation and Maintenance
Installing the External Fluoride Shield is a straightforward process that can be done by most homeowners without professional assistance. Once installed, the filter requires minimal maintenance, with the primary task being the periodic replacement of the activated alumina filter. This makes it a convenient and low-maintenance solution for improving water quality.
How to Install and Use the External Fluoride Shield
The installation and use of the External Fluoride Shield are simple, making it accessible even for those who are not particularly handy. Here is a step-by-step guide to getting started:
Preparation: Before beginning the installation, ensure that you have all the necessary components, including the External Fluoride Shield, connecting hoses, and any required adapters for your specific water filtration system.
Installation: The External Fluoride Shield is typically installed inline with your existing water filtration system. This involves connecting the filter to the water line that feeds into your water ionizer or filtration system. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure a secure and leak-free installation.
Activation: Once installed, it is important to flush the filter by running water through it for several minutes. This helps remove any loose particles from the activated alumina and ensures that the filter is ready to use.
Regular Use: After flushing, the External Fluoride Shield is ready for regular use. Simply continue using your water ionizer or filtration system as usual, with the added benefit of enhanced fluoride removal.
Maintenance: Periodically check the filter for signs of wear or reduced effectiveness. The activated alumina filter will need to be replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, typically every 6 to 12 months, depending on your water usage and quality.
Who Should Consider the External Fluoride Shield?
The External Fluoride Shield is ideal for a wide range of individuals and households concerned about fluoride exposure. Here are some specific groups who may particularly benefit from using this product:
Health-Conscious Individuals
If you are someone who is deeply invested in your health and well-being, reducing fluoride intake is a logical step, especially if you are already using other filtration systems to improve your water quality. The External Fluoride Shield can add an extra layer of protection, ensuring that your drinking water is as clean and safe as possible.
Families with Young Children
Given the potential risks of dental and skeletal fluorosis, families with young children may find the External Fluoride Shield particularly valuable. By reducing fluoride levels in drinking water, parents can help protect their children from excessive fluoride exposure during critical developmental years.
Individuals with Thyroid Concerns
For those with existing thyroid conditions or concerns about thyroid health, reducing fluoride intake could be beneficial. The External Fluoride Shield provides an easy way to manage fluoride exposure, potentially supporting better thyroid function.
People Living in High-Fluoride Areas
In regions where the natural fluoride content in water is higher than recommended levels, the External Fluoride Shield offers a practical solution to mitigate the risks associated with excessive fluoride consumption. It allows residents to enjoy clean, fluoride-reduced water without relying solely on bottled water.
Conclusion
The External Fluoride Shield by AlkaViva is a valuable addition to any home water filtration system, particularly for those concerned about the potential health risks associated with fluoride consumption. By effectively reducing fluoride levels and enhancing overall water quality, this filter provides a simple yet powerful way to ensure that your drinking water is as safe and pure as possible. Whether you are a health-conscious individual, a family with young children, or someone living in a high-fluoride area, the External Fluoride Shield offers peace of mind and improved well-being through better water.
Frequently Asked Questions
How effective is the External Fluoride Shield at removing fluoride?
The External Fluoride Shield uses activated alumina, one of the most effective materials for reducing fluoride in water. While the exact percentage of fluoride removal can vary based on water quality and flow rate, the filter is designed to significantly lower fluoride levels, making your water safer for consumption.
How often should I replace the filter in the External Fluoride Shield?
The activated alumina filter in the External Fluoride Shield should typically be replaced every 6 to 12 months, depending on your water usage and the initial fluoride concentration in your water. Regular replacement ensures that the filter remains effective at reducing fluoride levels.
Can the External Fluoride Shield be used with any water filtration system?
The External Fluoride Shield is designed to be compatible with AlkaViva water ionizers, but it can also be used with other water filtration systems that have a similar setup. Ensure that your system is compatible with external filters before installation.
Is the External Fluoride Shield difficult to install?
No, the External Fluoride Shield is relatively easy to install and does not typically require professional assistance. It is designed for inline installation with your existing water filtration system, and detailed instructions are provided to guide you through the process.
Does the External Fluoride Shield remove other contaminants besides fluoride?
Yes, in addition to fluoride, the External Fluoride Shield also helps reduce other common contaminants in tap water, such as chlorine, lead, and arsenic. This contributes to overall improved water quality and safety.
Will using the External Fluoride Shield affect the taste of my water?
Many users find that the External Fluoride Shield improves the taste of their water by removing impurities such as chlorine and fluoride. The result is cleaner, fresher-tasting water that is more enjoyable to drink.