There are up to 150 toxic chemicals found in an average home that can cause various afflictions such as allergies, birth defects, and even cancer. Many people know that unhealthy ingredients can be found in the foods we eat, which is why many are turning to more plant based diets in recent years. But dangerous chemicals can be lurking in products and conveniences throughout many rooms of the home.
Taking a good look at the contents of our homes, and adjusting accordingly, may help to regain energy and health, and prevent future health problems from taking hold. Enemies to health may be going unnoticed in every room of the house, and identifying and replacing them with healthier options can help lead to a healthier life.
The Kitchen
Nearly every health journey starts in the kitchen. What we choose to put into our bodies has an direct impact on our day to day and long term health, but it isn’t just what kinds of foods we choose, but also how we prepare them that can have a negative impact on health.
Microwaves, for example, are a convenience that very few households feel they could do without. However, cooking food in the microwave can actually reduce the amount of nutrition in a meal. Microwaves heat by creating molecular friction, which eventually changes the molecular makeup of the food being microwaved, and can reduce its nutrients, leaving nothing but empty calories.
Related reading: Scary Truth Of Toxic Chemicals In Plastic Food Containers And Packaging
The Living Room
There are many household items that we use every day, for enjoyment, convenience or both, that may be quietly compromising our health, from carpets to cleaning products. One such danger is candles. Paraffin, a petroleum byproduct found in many scented candles, releases carcinogenic soot when burned, which can lead to respiratory problems or aggravate already existing issues in the heart and lungs.
For a more natural and nontoxic alternative to these popular candles, look for candles that are 100 percent beeswax or vegetable based wax with cotton wicks. None of these products contain any toxic ingredients and can be burned safely without causing health problems.
Related reading: 5 Top Sources of Toxins and How to Avoid Them
The Bathroom
Some of the most sinister toxic chemicals may be lurking in your bathroom cabinet. There are many destructive chemicals in cosmetics that we apply to our skin and hair on a daily basis. One example is phthalates. These chemicals can be found in scented cosmetic items like lotions or bath products, and can cause reproductive issues and early puberty in children.
Furthermore, companies are not legally required to disclose them in the label, so it is safer to choose unscented products, especially if they will be used on children. Parabens are a preservative that can be found in various kinds of cosmetics, and can interfere with hormones, possibly even leading to reduced fertility.
Related reading: Is Your Perfume Toxic?
Many products and conveniences that people have used for decades can be contributing damaging and toxic elements to our lives without our knowledge. Knowing what chemicals to look out for and reading labels can help you maintain a safe home environment, as well as purchasing products from organic and natural companies, or even making your own cosmetics and cleaning products. Maintaining a clean and safe home environment can help you lead a more fully healthy life.
