Checks, deodorants and 7 more unexpectedly dangerous everyday things
'05.08.2022'
Source: Delfi Dekor
You can take extra precautions for double (and triple) cleaning the items you use, but there are certain chemicals that simply cannot be avoided. Why? They are contained in many everyday things that you never thought about, writes Delfi Dekor.
Checks from shops
Despite the fact that it’s so customary to take a check and drop it in your wallet or pocket, gastroenterologist, MD Will Bulsiewicz warns against touching the proof of purchase. Many checks are printed on thermal paper, which means that they are covered with a thin layer of powder with dye.
“This powder contains bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical that inhibits the endocrine system and is associated with breast cancer, diabetes, and hormonal imbalances in children,” says Bulsevich.
Many studies have shown that BPA is absorbed through the skin, so it is important to limit the interaction with this substance. If you need a check, then put it in a bag, but away from food, especially those that are consumed raw. And be sure to wash your hands after touching the checks.
Insect spray
While these remedies can prevent insect bites, infectious diseases specialist, MD Alexia Gaffney Adams says some of the components of your favorite insect spray, particularly organophosphates, are found in pesticides and herbicides. They are as scary as they sound.
“These compounds are easily absorbed through the skin and inhaled. These are nerve-poisoning poisons that poison both insects and people. They can affect breathing and muscle function, and if used in large quantities, can cause cardiovascular collapse and death, ”explains the specialist. “Long-term exposure (like farmers) to these substances is associated with heart and lung diseases, memory impairment, poor reflexes, and cancer.”
Washing powder
You will be surprised, but washing clothes can really be a risky business.
“Many detergents contain phenol, which easily penetrates the skin. It can cause kidney and liver dysfunction,” explains GP, MD Maskfika N. Alam.
If in doubt, use organic laundry detergent, especially if you have allergies, eczema, or sensitive skin.
On the subject: Why do you need to wash your hands after you touch the money
Flame retardants
Fire retardants are chemicals that slow down the combustion and ignition of materials. According to Dr. Bulsevich, flame retardants are associated with infertility and cancer.
“These substances are used in upholstered furniture, as well as in most children's clothes, car seats for children, pillows for feeding and other soft products,” he says. “To avoid contact with flame retardants, buy clothing made from natural fibers only, especially for children and infants.”
And if you want to change the atmosphere of your living room, then choose only new furniture that does not contain flame retardants.
Cookware with non-stick coating
Many people prefer non-stick cookware. But as Adam S. Gropper, MD, warns, these coatings can melt when overheated, exposing aluminum, which is very unhealthy.
“Aluminum ingestion has been linked to Alzheimer's disease and several types of cancer. If the coating of your dishes has lost its integrity, it's time to replace it, ”he advises.
Deodorant / Antiperspirant
Where else can I find aluminum? In the deodorant you use daily. As Gropper emphasizes, although it is designed to make you always feel fresh, many deodorants use aluminum to close the pores and thereby prevent excessive sweating. But since ingestion of aluminum is associated with Alzheimer's disease, as well as with prostate and breast cancer, Dr. Gropper recommends using a safe, natural antiperspirant.
Perfume or body spray
Although they smell nice, some perfumes or body sprays contain dangerous compounds that can damage the mucosal surface of our airways. In other words, you may start coughing and sneezing intensely. And many people have a headache in addition to a coughing fit.
Air freshener
Of course, it will help to neutralize the stench in the room, but inhaling these chemicals is not safe for anyone in your family, including pets. As Dr. Alam explains, artificial scents that add to air fresheners can cause the same symptoms as perfumes, even irritate the eyes and cause inflammation.
“Chronic inhalation of phthalates can cause asthma and damage your lungs,” says Alam.
On the subject: Deadly beauty: what dangerous bacteria your cosmetic bag hides
Hand sanitizer and antibacterial soap
You may think that this will help you stay healthy and avoid getting infected with the virus in the office, but in the long run, these products can do more harm than good. Triclosan is found in more than 75 percent of hand sanitizers and antibacterial soaps.
“This is another endocrine disruptor,” says Dr. Gaffney-Adams.
Triclosan has been linked to thyroid disorders, allergies, asthma, and eczema. It is a suspected carcinogen, and when you overuse these foods, you can create antibiotic resistance in bacteria, making it difficult to treat infections.
