Today, most chemicals are closely associated with cancer, obesity, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), puberty, autism and other medical conditions. As parents focus on protecting the health of their children and themselves, the focus should not only be on nutrition and physical exercises, but also on exposure to chemicals.
Scientists believe that chemicals found in most consumer goods may be more toxic than projected.
Here are the top 5 industrial chemicals endangering your health without your knowledge:
Arsenic
Arsenic is a carcinogen that has links to kidney, skin, bladder and lung cancers. Some foods have both inorganic and organic arsenic, and the former raises the risks of cancer. Rice and rice products, grape juice, and apple have mild levels of organic and inorganic arsenic.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is not only a skin irritant, but it is also associated with nasal squamous cell cancer. It causes allergic reactions such as burning eyes and throats, skin rashes, and stuffy noses.
Also, formaldehyde can cause headaches, respiratory symptoms, nausea, and fatigue. Typically, it is used to preserve some household products and also acts as an embalming fluid. Cleaning and beauty products such as baby wipes, and adhesives and glues mostly contain formaldehyde.
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide (CO) is released during the combustion of fossil fuels. Carbon monoxide is commercially useful, though exposure to it has effects—causes headaches, vomiting, dizziness, and nausea. Higher levels of prolonged exposure may result in unconsciousness and even death. In order to protect homeowners, ADT recommends every residence be equipped with a proper carbon monoxide detector.
Phthalates and Bisphenol
Phthalates and Bisphenol are endocrine disrupters. They copy the natural hormones and can interfere with the reproductive health of an individual. Phthalates is connected to testosterone and male reproductive issues while Bisphenol has links to early puberty in girls. Phthalates and Bisphenol are used as additives in plastics. These industrial chemicals are also found in the lining of beverage and food cans, and also on shopping receipts.
Fluoride
Despite its ability to reduce cavities, excess fluoride can cause pits in the enamel, discolored teeth and brittle bones. You need to be moderate when using fluoride to avoid severe effects such as the ones aforementioned.
There are more than 80,000 chemicals considered to be toxic. The new law under the Frank R Lautenberg Chemical Safety Act requires the EPA to carry out risks assessments and reviews on chemicals. This has allowed for regulations that will protect this generation and those to come. Also, you can start protecting yourself by avoiding the above chemicals where possible.