10 household products that cause cancer
When you think of health and wellness, proper nutrition and supplements are often at the top of the list for ways to keep your family safe. You don’t consider analyzing the products you use for cleaning purposes, for example.
The truth is, there are several known carcinogens in our homes that lurk in the shower, toilet, kitchen cupboard, and the rest of the home that have the potential to substantially increase the risk that you or your family will develop cancer.
Here’s a list of potential hazards, from air fresheners and scented candles to shower curtains, that you can keep an eye on to make your home safe again.
1. Candles
The particles from burning candles are extremely dangerous to your health according to several studies. Particles from burning candles have a stronger effect than diesel exhaust particles.
Studies have found that the particles in lit candles cause inflammatory reactions in the lungs and damaged cells and significantly increase the progression of clogged arteries (atherosclerosis), which, in turn, increase the likelihood of heart attack.
Many scented household products, like incense, also contain dozens of harmful toxins and carcinogens like lead. So check the chemicals used to create the scents of your products as well.
An easy way to control your candles is to use a piece of paper. Holding the wick, try to draw a line on the paper. If there is no line, the wick most likely does not contain lead. You can also light the candle and hold the paper above the flame. If a gray soot residue forms, your fabrics may contain lead.
2. Air fresheners
According to a report published by the Natural Resources Defense Council , many of the air fresheners that we use in our homes on a regular basis contain compounds with carcinogenic potential. The vast majority of air fresheners, even some marked “all natural” or “unscented,” contain compounds called phthalates.
Different types of phthalates have different health consequences, although most of them affect reproductive health. Many of them can exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma.
When people use air fresheners, phthalates are released into the air where they can be inhaled or they can land on the skin and be absorbed. Once these chemicals enter the bloodstream, they can disrupt hormone levels and cause other health problems.
Home air fresheners are one of the simplest household products to make . All you need to keep your home smelling good is distilled water and a few drops of your favorite essential oils in a spray bottle.
Shake well before each use and spray around your home whenever you want to freshen the air. Or you can use it in an aromatherapy diffuser.
3. Shower curtains and other plastics for the home
PVC is the third most produced type of plastic in the world, although it may be harmless for certain applications, such as sewer pipes, for example, but when used in environments that can release the carcinogenic toxic compounds of PVC, this plastic polymer It could become a time bomb.
Shower curtains contain PVC and other toxic compounds that can be released when you shower. These toxins can affect the reproductive system, the respiratory system and can also be carcinogenic.
Some of the plastic products used to make toys, containers, and other plastics for children can also be a health hazard.
Healthier alternatives to shower curtains include natural cotton curtains or EVA curtains (EVA is a non-toxic alternative to PVC). Check your children’s toys and your plastic containers to make sure they are PVC-free.
4. Carpet cleaners and fabric shampoos
Many carpet shampoos and fabric cleaners designed to offer superior stain removal power use a product called perchlorethylene . Perchlorethylene, also called tetrachlorethylene, has been linked to increased risks of developing lung cancer.
Carpet cleaners and fabric shampoos sometimes also contain a compound called naphthalene. Naphthalene is the main ingredient in mothballs, and exposure to naphthalene is linked to an increased risk of developing throat and lung cancer.
Of the most widely used environmentally friendly household products is baking soda, it is an excellent odor remover, and white vinegar is also effective in removing dirt and stains.
If you want to get rid of your carpet shampoo, spray your carpets with baking soda, add vinegar to your shampoo water, and then wait for your carpets to dry.
If necessary, sprinkle baking soda with a few drops of essential oil (it can be thyme, peppermint or lavender) for scent and freshness, and then vacuum up any remaining powder.
5. Dry cleaning products
According to the American Cancer Society , another hidden carcinogen in your cabinets could be tetrachlorethylene or perchlorethylene that has been used in your dry cleaning supplies. These chemicals are often included as solvents in products like dry cleaners.
Wearing clothes that have been dry cleaned can unintentionally expose you to these harmful substances. Make sure your local dry cleaner doesn’t use perchlorethylene to wash your clothes.
6. Insecticides and pesticides
The term family is usually extended to our furry friends. You would think that products promoted as pet friendly should be pet and human friendly.
However, like your cleaning supplies, there are many potentially carcinogenic chemicals in many tick, flea and lice control products.
Some tick and flea products contain organophosphate insecticides, permethrin, and carbamates. These products are listed as likely to be carcinogenic to humans.
7. Antibacterial household products
We are often misled into thinking that certain products are automatically safe. This is particularly true of products like antibacterial products that are supposedly designed to make our environments safer.
Recent concerns about an ingredient used in many antibacterial products have led to a ban on the use of this product in areas such as the European Union. Triclosan is an antibacterial and antifungal ingredient found in many cosmetics, soaps, detergents, and even toothpastes.
Evidence suggests that triclosan may be a carcinogen. Although the initial tests were only done on mice, there were enough concerns to ban the product in the EU.
The products such as silver have been used for its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties (eg advancing incorporates biotechnology ionizable silver tissues for clinical use to reduce the risk of infections), and using silver not appear to pose a significant hazard for human beings.
However, today there are many toxic-free soaps on the market and you can even make your own natural antiseptic soap, or make your own disinfectant products for the home.
8. Deodorants
There are claims that deodorants could be harmful to you and even cause cancer.
Dr. Philip Harvey, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Applied Toxicology examined the ways that cosmetics interact with your body. He says that cleaning chemicals found in deodorants under your arms and on the sides of your chest or breasts “could provide an almost direct route of exposure to underlying tissue that contains estrogen receptors.”
This is concerning because both parabens and aluminum, found in deodorants, are “estrogenic” chemicals, meaning they interact with hormones or cells in your body in a similar way to estrogen.
According to the National Cancer Institute , excess estrogen plays a role in promoting cancer cell growth, which is a major concern due to our daily exposure to deodorants.
Harvey says his calculations suggest that these cosmetic chemicals can “significantly increase estrogen loads.”
There are opposing views on the connection between deodorant use and cancer. A medical study found no correlation between antiperspirant use and breast cancer. The FDA says, “At this time, we have no information to show that parabens, as used in cosmetics, have an effect on human health.”
But Dr. Philip Harvey says that “absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.”
Why take the risk? Instead of using commercial deodorants, you can use a coconut oil deodorant or a natural lavender deodorant or another ecological type that there are many already on the market today.
9. Toothpastes containing triclosan
The use of a chemical called triclosan in a top-selling toothpaste in a very commercial toothpaste has sparked much debate in the past. The toothpaste in question was approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) in 1997.
This year alone, the agency, following a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) lawsuit, released all the security data it had been hiding about this product.
It emerged that over the past 18 years, millions of people have been regularly putting a toxin potentially linked to cancer, endocrine disruption, infertility, and other health problems into their mouths.
What is triclosan?
Triclosan is a pesticide and looks like a major component of the Agent Orange chemical weapon sprayed during the Vietnam War. It is also known as 5-chloro-2- (2,4-dichlorophenoxy) phenol, and has been used initially in surgical hand washes and other disinfectants.
It is a derivative of 2,4-D, which is a highly toxic herbicide. It is not exactly a substance that you would expect to find in your toothpaste.
This brand claims that their toothpaste is safe; a claim backed by more than 80 clinical studies with 19,000 people. However, triclosan has been gradually phased out from other common personal care products, except for this toothpaste.
In addition, the European Union has banned triclosan from all products that come into contact with food.
Triclosan-free household products
Other companies do not use triclosan in their oral care products. As the chemical is used in a range of other products as well, after debate, many companies have announced the arrival of a range of products without triclosan , for example pet food dispensers.
However, the manufacturer of the commercial tooth brand has no plans to change the formula of its toothpaste and continues to market it as a product that promotes the health of your teeth and gums. All with FDA approval.
10. Non-stick cookware made of Teflon
Chemically, Teflon is known as polytetrafluoroethylene. It was originally a waste by-product of the production of Freon, which is the trade name for non-flammable, moderately toxic gases or liquids used as refrigerants and as aerosol propellants. Freon and Teflon are produced by the same company.
Teflon is made from perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which has been associated with tumors and developmental problems in animals.
According to the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, there are several diseases related to PFOA exposure:
- Type 2 diabetes)
- Cancer
- Low birth weight
- Early puberty
- Infertility and reproductive disorders.
- Autoimmune disorders
- Liver and kidney disease
- Thyroid disease
- High cholesterol
What can you do to reduce the risks associated with Teflon?
- Never preheat an empty skillet.
- If you are using nonstick pans, don’t go over medium heat.
- If you see that your skillet is chipped or damaged, throw it away. Nonstick cookware should be replaced every two years to avoid toxic leakage.
- Use only wooden spoons to stir food and avoid metal utensils in nonstick pans.
- Heavier cookware is usually of better quality and heat up a little more slowly, so go for that.
- Use chemical-free cookware. Opt for clay and glass cookware, stainless steel and copper pans, and cast iron pots and pans. Cast iron and stainless steel are a good alternative to nonstick pans and are durable.
Alternative home and kitchen utensils to Teflon
Glass : Glass works great for baking eg Pyrex dishes. In general, they are not designed to be used on the stove.
More and more people choose glass pots because of its simple design, elegant color, and elegant style. In addition, the smooth surface of the glass pots makes it easy to clean.
Cast Iron : Cast iron is perfect for use in the oven or on the stove. Cast iron is great because it is so versatile. While cast iron cookware is PFOA free, it is important to ensure that the cookware you choose meets all regulations for lead and cadmium levels.
Stainless steel : This can be a bit tricky as food tends to stick to stainless steel utensils, but many people prefer to use them.
Although it may take some research to find the best nonstick alternatives for your personal taste, go for it. If you prepare most of your meals at home, it is important that you do not expose yourself to the risks involved in cooking with nonstick.
Final Notes on Toxic Household Products
The list of household products above is just a sampling of the potential hazards of products that we take for granted. You must take an active interest in the products you trust to keep your family safe. Research the products you use regularly and look for the ingredients.
Detoxifying your home is an integral part of the detox concept. This includes not only detoxifying your body, but also detoxifying your mind and surroundings.
Warning Signs and How to Reduce Wi-Fi Hazards
It is a household product that is indispensable today , it is in our computers, phones, laptops and tablets. It floats around our homes, workplaces, trains, and even airplanes.
Since its inception in the early 90s, Wi-Fi has become a standard part of our everyday lives, but should we blindly trust it? Is Wi-Fi bad for your health?
Wi-Fi is sure to be a miraculous convenience for the modern person. It is used by hundreds of millions.
Electromagnetic hypersensitivity syndrome (EHS)
Electromagnetic hypersensitivity syndrome, or EMS, is a problem that concerns people who are exposed to electromagnetic fields. Studies now show that this medical problem is much more credible than we might have thought.
According to one study, a cordless phone base station located two feet from your head and connected for three minutes at a time can significantly disrupt your heart rate. This study led by Magda Havas, PhD, of the Department of Environmental Resource Studies and Trent University , Canada.
So far, experts have been able to classify those affected into two groups. There are people who suffer from minor symptoms and people who are more severely affected.
Swiss doctor Thomas Rau of the Paracelsus Clinic found that, in modernized areas, nearly 40% receive negative side effects from EMFs, while 8% suffer more severe symptoms.
Minor EHS symptoms
You can be someone with EHS and not even realize it. Simply walking in areas with high concentrations of EMF (electromagnetic fields) could aggravate the following symptoms:
- Feelings of fainting and dizziness
- Itching and burning sensations on the skin
- Spontaneous and persistent headaches
- Pain, discomfort, and aching muscles
- Feelings of nausea or sickness
- Lack of focus and clarity
More serious dangers of EHS
Some doctors believe that EMF exposure could also lead to more drastic problems in extremely sensitive people. According to Dr. Rau, exposure to electromagnetic charges can contribute to the following medical problems:
- ADD and ADHD
- Chronic migraine
- Insomnia
- Parkinson’s disease
- Chronic back pain
- Arrhythmia
- Cancer
It seems strange that a medical problem with such serious negative potential is receiving so little attention. How can such a convenient part of our daily lives have these negative effects? Why isn’t more research being done?
Wi-Fi and EMF are growing exponentially and showing no signs of slowing down. Some estimates say the number of hotspots will likely triple by 2015.
You don’t have to be a tech savvy to be exposed to EMFs on a daily basis, they will find you regardless. A vast majority of the people around you are signaling directly from their pockets and backpacks. Even if you don’t have a cell phone, you could be a victim.
It can be difficult to avoid absorbing rays in our media-saturated culture, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take steps to reduce exposure. A few minor life changes can save you the risk of excessive EMF absorption.
7 Steps to Reduce Wi-Fi Hazards at Home and on Your Body
1. Strengthen the strength of your immune system. This is the most important course of action because it will make your body more effective in rejecting the effects of radiation. A solid diet of organic foods, plenty of water, and the right amount of vitamins and minerals will do you good.
2. Use landlines at home, at work, and wherever possible. This causes much less exposure than a cell phone. If possible stick to corded phones, they are the safest way to communicate without the penetration of EMF.
3. Do not keep the phone in your pockets, clothing, or belt. Try to carry it somewhere separate from your body, such as in a suitcase or purse.
4. Keep laptops off your lap. Laptops are constantly receiving and emitting electrical waves.
5. If you have to use a cell phone, make messages a priority over calls. Not only is it more convenient, it is also less dangerous than placing the phone directly next to your brain.
6. If you have children, keep them away from cell phones. Children with developing bodies are the most vulnerable to the mysterious effects of Wi-Fi and other EMFs. You may resent it for that, but it’s for the best.
7. Learn to use airplane mode whenever you can with your devices. Disable Wi-Fi and cellular data, which will also save battery life. If you are not expecting to give or receive any communication overnight, turn your phone off completely before going to bed.
We are still limited in our knowledge of EMFs, but why take the chance? With the speculation that it could act as a carcinogen and damage your DNA, this is clearly not something to consider.
By taking matters into your own hands and trying to reduce your exposure, you could be creating a happier and healthier future. Don’t think the world is over either, humans got along without technology for thousands of years!