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Dangerous household chemicals, harm to chipboard furniture, formaldehydes in everyday life
Each of us faces household poisons every day. Moreover, women are more likely than men.
Recently, the US Environmental Protection Agency conducted a study looking at what everyday things might contain toxic compounds. The result of the study was published on the government website with a detailed list of the products of which companies were found to be not very healthy. In many, for example, formaldehyde was found – it is a poison, a carcinogen that can cause cancer. There are also these brands in our stores – shower gels and soaps, repair products and washing powders, car chemicals and products for animals. We have compiled a list of things you need to pay special attention to if you want to minimize the impact of household poisons on your health and the health of your household.
1. Dishwashing detergents
They often contain formaldehyde. But we wash the dishes every day, and not once or twice. Moreover, even if you are a happy owner of a dishwasher, you are not immune from the effects of this poison. After all, traces of it can remain on the dishes. Experts advise choosing organic products. Or even do them yourself. Well, if you understand chemistry, read the composition, study the ingredients.
Usually they contain a lot of fragrances, bleaching agents (bleaches, by the way, are generally extremely toxic and can cause serious burns), brighteners that give the color brightness. It is necessary to ensure that all these substances are not on the labels. Even if the powder is odorless, there are natural flavors that will not cause allergies and will not provoke hormonal imbalances. And artificial fragrances are capable of it. Moreover, manufacturers are not legally obliged to decipher what is included in the hellish cocktail indicated on the label with the short word “flavoring”.
They often contain phthalates. These substances are absorbed into the blood without bringing any good health. Moreover, they are found more often in the blood of women – all because we more often take food with us to work from home. And we often heat directly in containers. To minimize harm, it is still better to reheat food on a plate. When heated from plastic, phthalates are released especially actively, saturating your lunch. The consequences can be extremely unpleasant – phthalates can even cause hormonal disruption in the body.
Lotions, soaps, shampoos for children often contain a compound called methylisothiazolinone. It is a powerful preservative that allows cosmetics to last longer. At the same time, in Europe and Japan, efforts are being made to limit the use of methylisothiazolinone. This is because although this substance is called natural, it is nevertheless quite toxic: it can cause allergies and even harm the lungs. Methylisothiazolinone is usually indicated on the label. It remains only to read.
By the way, in addition to cosmetics for children, this preservative is found in universal cleaning products, washing powders and other household chemicals.
Yes, our fur pets are at risk. Formaldehyde can be found in flea medicines such as pet shampoos. Therefore, it is best to use organic pet care products. And essential oils can cope with fleas: lavender and mint, tea tree, cloves and eucalyptus.
It is now very popular to enter into shared construction in an effort to improve living conditions. Or buying an apartment in a new building is cheaper. However, experts say that it is better to opt for secondary housing. In an effort to save money, developers can choose not the best quality materials – both construction and finishing. Cheap wallpaper, plaster and paint can be pretty damaging for future tenants. Old brick houses are much safer for health. But more expensive – there is nothing you can do about it.
7. Hair styling products and deodorants
They also contain formaldehyde. True, in a rather small dosage. So those at risk are those who work in beauty salons and spray varnish around themselves several times every day, use mousse and foam. But still, in everyday life, it is better to use styling products as little as possible. So it is healthier for the hair, and for you. And as for deodorants, you can’t go anywhere. Maybe find a product labeled “organic”.
By the way, scientists have recently published another interesting study. It turns out that fussing in the kitchen is also dangerous for women if you use a gas stove. If ventilation is poor, your risk of developing lung cancer increases.