Toxins exist in the most
common household products. The problem is, some don’t come with that skull and
crossbones symbol to signify that they may be damaging to our health.
Ridding your home of
these common toxins can save you money and protect your family’s health, while
helping the environment.
BPA
Bisphenol A, or BPA, is so
common it’s difficult for researchers to know what our biggest source of
exposure is. It’s a chemical used in plastic used to make bottles, food
containers and linings for cans commonly seen on supermarket shelves. BPA is linked
to male infertility, diabetes, heart disease, aggressive behavior in children,
and other maladies. To avoid BPA, choose fresh or frozen vegetables and fruits,
rather than the canned variety. Don't store food or beverages in plastic
containers.
Nonstick
cookware and bakeware
You’ve seen the black
surface of non-stick pots and pans. The black stuff is a chemical, and has been
linked to ADHD, high cholesterol and thyroid disease, as well as potent sperm
killers. Instead, choose safer cookware such as cast iron or stainless steel.
By the way, make sure they’re made in America : the manufacturing process
in other countries are not as regulated.
Antibacterial
soap
Many health experts
believe that overusing antibacterial chemicals is promoting the growth of
bacteria resistant to antibacterial treatment. Most antibacterial soaps and
hand sanitizers contain a chemical called triclosan, which is believed to affect
the thyroid and hormone levels in humans. Studies have shown regular soap and
warm water will kill just as many germs as antibacterial soap. Read the label
of your hand sanitizer and choose one that is alcohol-based and doesn’t contain
triclosan.
Synthetic
fragrances
Chemical fragrances are
found in a number of products in your house. Look for the term “fragrance” or
“parfum” on the label and try to avoid the product altogether. The chemicals
used to produce fragrance are known carcinogens. Opt for unscented soaps and
detergents. Air fresheners, deodorizers, scented candles, gels and lotions are
also culprits. It will take some time and effort to eliminate synthetic
fragrance from your home, but it will be worth it.
Harsh
cleaning products
Again, become a label
reader. The cleaners we use to “clean” surfaces can actually contaminate the
air. Avoid cleaners that contain a long list of chemical compounds. Ammonia can
trigger asthma attacks. Replace the cleaners with ecofriendly ones that have simple,
natural ingredients. You can make a general cleaning solution of one part white
vinegar and nine parts water that will kill 90 percent of bacteria and many
spores. Need a glass cleaner? Mix one part white vinegar with one part water
and use newspapers instead of paper towels to wipe the glass clean.
Vinyl
The toxins used in the production
process of vinyl have brought some environmental health groups to call it the
"poison plastic." The effects on humans include hormone disruption,
stunted growth, obesity, and various other health problems, as well as low IQs.
When it's time to replace flooring in your home, opt for wood, bamboo, cork or
real linoleum instead of vinyl. You should also avoid plastic shower-curtain
liners, as well as any kind of fake leather that may be found in furniture,
clothing and accessories.
Flame
retardants
The chemicals found in
electronics, carpets, carpet padding, and furniture foam that make them
flame-retardant have been associated with a wide range of health problems, including
infertility, thyroid problems, learning disabilities and hormone disruption.
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