For sure, some of you are putting extra precaution to double or triple clean the items you use. However, there are certain chemicals you can’t simply avoid.
Crumpling up a receipt or tossing it in your pocket might be your habit. But did you know that according to Will Bulsiewicz, MD, MSCI, board-certified gastroenterologist, you should be warned against touching your proof of purchase. He explains that various receipts are printed on thermal paper, which means that they’re covered with a thin coating of powder that develops the dye needed for the type. Furthermore, he added:
“This powder contains BPA, an endocrine-disrupting chemical which has been linked to breast cancer, diabetes, and hormone abnormalities in children.”
Bisphenol A or BPA is absorbed through the skin. That’s why it is important to limit your exposure to this chemical.
Will also advise that:
“If you don’t need a receipt, ask the cashier not to print it if possible. If you do need it, ask for it to be placed in the bag; don’t place the receipt in a bag with food items, particularly items that are consumed raw. Finally, be sure to wash your hands well after handling any receipts.”
Here are the things you are not aware that are dangerous to your health:
Non-Stick Coated Cookware
Non-stick coatings can melt when they are overheated, according to Adam S. Gropper, MD. It can reveal aluminum that is dangerous to your health when ingested. He further explains that:
“Ingested aluminum has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease and several cancers. If you see flaking or gauging in your coated cookware, it’s time to replace.”
Deodorant/Antiperspirant
Dr. Gropper also added that many formulas of deodorants and antiperspirants utilize aluminum to clot pores and avoid excessive sweating. However, absorbing aluminum has been associated with Alzheimer’s disease and both breast and prostate cancer. It would be better if you try out natural antiperspirant.
Laundry Detergent
According to Maskfika N. Alam, MD, a family physician and general practitioner, many detergents contain ‘phenol,’ which can be easily absorbed through the skin. It may cause renal and hepatic dysfunction. Opt for an organic brand of laundry detergent, most especially if you have eczema, allergies or sensitive skin.
Bug Sprays And Repellents
Clinical assistant professor and infectious disease specialist Alexea M. Gaffney-Adams, MD, says some bug spray contains organophosphates which are also known as plasticizers. She explains that:
“These compounds are readily absorbed through the skin and inhaled. They poison insects—and humans—by disrupting neurotransmitters necessary for proper body functions. They can affect breathing and muscle function and they can cause cardiovascular collapse and death in large amounts. Prolonged exposures—like in farmers—have been linked to heart and lung disease, impaired memory, poor or delayed reflexes as well as cancers.”
Fire Retardants
Fire retardants are dangerous chemicals that were actually linked to disorders, cancer, and infertility. According to Dr. Bulsiewicz:
“They are used in most infant clothing and can be found in foam cushions in sofas and chairs, as well as children’s car seats, nursing pillows, and other upholstered products.”
“To avoid coming into contact with fire retardants, be sure to buy only natural fiber clothing, particularly for children and infants.”
Air Fresheners
Inhaling these chemicals might not be safe for you and your family, according to Dr. Alam. He states that artificial fragrances present in air fresheners may irritate your eyes and cause inflammation. He also said that:
“Chronic inhalation of phthalates can cause asthma and can damage your lungs.”
Perfumes Or Body Spray
Perfumes make you smell good. On the other hand, some of them may contain harmful compounds that may be dangerous to the delicate mucosal surface of our respiratory tract. It may cause sneezing, coughing as well as a headache.
Hand Sanitizer And Antibacterial Soaps
You may believe that these help you stay healthy. Yet, in the long run, these products can do more harm than good. More than 75% of hand sanitizers and antibacterial soaps, as well as linens, gym equipment, underwear, plastic products, and more, contain a compound known as triclosan. It has been linked to allergies, eczema, asthma and thyroid diseases. Dr. Gaffney-Adams, from FDA, explains that:
“It is another ‘endocrine buster’ resulting in reproductive toxicity through alterations in hormone regulation.”
Aside from this, it is also assumed to be a carcinogen. Overusing of these products may cause antibiotic resistance in bacteria thus, making human infections more difficult to treat.
