Nitrates

Nitrates are a naturally occurring compound that are essential for plant growth, which are often found in soil and water. However, high levels of nitrates in drinking water can be harmful to human health, especially for infants and pregnant women. Ingestion of high levels of nitrates can cause a condition called methemoglobinemia, or “blue baby syndrome,” which reduces the amount of oxygen that blood can carry. This is known to cause shortness of breath, fatigue and even death in some circumstances. High levels of nitrates or nitrogen in the form of ammonia in water can also lead to eutrophication, a process in which excess nutrients in water stimulate the growth of algae, which can harm aquatic ecosystems by reducing oxygen levels and causing death to fish. Therefore, it is important to monitor and regulate nitrate levels in drinking water sources to protect human health and the environment.