Over time, scientific research has revealed that common household items are more toxic than once previously believed. Many products that you may use in your daily routine pose a risk to your long-term health. It’s important to become aware of these products and the way you can limit or eliminate them to improve overall health and well-being.
Your physical health extends beyond exercise, and it’s important to identify what may be negatively impacting it. Continue reading to learn about everyday items you didn’t know were toxic.
Paraffin-Based Candles
Candles that are formulated with paraffin wax are toxic. When burned, the paraffin releases black soot and toxic fumes similar to the chemicals released in diesel exhaust. These fumes are dangerous when inhaled and can create respiratory issues and illnesses like allergies, asthma, and even cancer if inhaled continuously over time.
Replace your toxic regular scented candles with all-natural soy scented candles. Soy scented candles are made from natural derivatives. When burned, they do not release these toxic chemicals.
Plastic Food Containers
Plastic food containers, while seemingly harmless, are made with endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as phthalates that release over time into your food. With the constant heating and cooling of the plastic, these chemicals leech into the food or drink. A healthier alternative would be to use glassware to store your food or drink safely and efficiently.
Cleaning Products
It’s no secret that cleaning products contain harsh chemicals. Hormone-disrupting and cancer-causing chemicals such as phthalates, ammonia, and surfactants pose a direct threat to the human body and, over time, can create adverse effects on the brain and cells.
Alternatively, you can use natural products such as white vinegar, baking soda, and citrus to keep your home clean and your body safe.
Antiperspirants
Antiperspirants contain sweat-blocking ingredients such as aluminum that have raised concerns over the years about breast cancer-causing properties. Antiperspirants also include parabens which have harmful and disrupting effects on the hormones, which can increase the risks of cancer and harm the reproductive system.
Nonstick Cookware
Another item you may not know was toxic is nonstick cookware. Nonstick cookware contains Teflon, which becomes unstable when heated at high temperatures. When it begins to break down, it may release toxic chemicals into the air and food.
Instead of cooking with nonstick cookware, stick to ceramic nonstick, cast iron, or carbon steel, to name a few.
Taking care of your health should extend beyond going to the gym. Examine your home and find and discard any toxic products that may be causing you harm long-term.
