The Benefits of Salt Water Swimming vs Chlorinated Pools
Saltwater has high levels of saline and potassium which works as a healing agent to any cuts and helps reduce skin irritations and rashes from nappies, eczema and allergies. It is a perfect natural remedy for anyone with sensitive skin.
The vitamins and minerals found in saltwater also have an antibiotic and antibacterial effect which helps boost the immune system and thus help reduce and relieve cold and flu symptoms.
Outdoor ocean pools are generally not chlorinated or heated. The natural flush of saltwater flowing in and out of an ocean pool combined with the natural minerals within the saltwater and its cooler temperature, help keep the water clean and fresh from bacteria. The benefits that saltwater has on our babies, toddlers, children as well as adults are endless – it supports healthy skin, our respiratory and our immune system amongst other things.
One study found that young children who swim regularly in an indoor chlorinated pool were at greater risk for lung inflammation and developing asthma.
Frequent testing is essential to ensure that chlorinated pool water is safe for swimmers. At a public pool, ask the lifeguard if they have specialized training in pool operation and how often free chlorine and pH levels are checked. (It should be at least twice per day and more when pool is heavily trafficked)
If you have a pool, check free chlorine or bromine levels. Look for a window of 1 to 10mg/L or parts per million (ppm) or bromine level of 3 to 8 ppm.
Keep in mind that chlorine and other disinfectants do not always kill all the pool germs instantly. So be an advocate for waterborne illness prevention. Push for ultraviolet or ozone disinfection technology for pool water treatment.
In conclusion, Saltwater swimming is best for you and your toddler but if you only have a pool in which to swim, check the levels constantly.
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