Every day we come into contact with chemicals that can wreak havoc on our health.

Unfortunately, these are not only found in environmental pollution. Many of the products we use daily can pose a significant long-term health risk.

Before you start suffering the consequences, we suggest you go to your kitchen and bathroom to get rid of these 8 items:

1. Artificial sweeteners: yes, you probably use them because you think you can save some calories, but did you know that artificial sweeteners can cause heart attacks, glucose intolerance, and Alzheimer’s disease? Get rid of all those colorful packets and opt for healthier sweeteners, like honey or agave syrup.
2. Energy drinks: it is common nowadays, with the busy lifestyles we lead, to seek options to maintain energy throughout the week. But it is important to know that these drinks affect blood vessel function, destabilize adrenaline levels, and impact the central nervous system. Before you drink a bottle of these, remember that their caffeine content is equivalent to 14 cans of soda.

 

• Plastic bottles and containers: if you are one of the many office workers who leaves early in the morning to go to work, it is very likely that you carry your food in plastic containers. No matter how much you love your "tuppers," the material they are made of can cause reproductive health problems and some types of cancer. Avoid issues and replace plastic with glass.
• Non-stick cooking utensils: it is easy to get confused with these items. One might think it is healthier to cook with them since you don't need as much oil, however, the material that makes them non-stick, PFOA, is considered carcinogenic. Save yourself the oil and health problems by switching your pans for ceramic or glass utensils.
• Air fresheners: this type of product is generally made with a chemical that has been associated with early puberty development and some types of cancer. If you have odor problems in your house, look for essential oils that, in addition to naturally scenting, can bring health benefits.
• Detergents and antibacterial soaps: we regret to tell you, but your little bottle for disinfecting your hands may not be the best idea. It turns out that its main component, triclosan, can cause allergies, thyroid problems, and affect fetal development. Instead of using a bunch of disinfecting products, use hydrogen peroxide and vinegar. It’s just as effective and less risky.
• Medicines and antibiotics: sometimes we have some pills left over from the last treatment prescribed by the doctor, and we keep them "just in case." However, storing medications for long periods, and worse still, taking them without medical supervision can be a big mistake. Above all, avoid self-medicating with antibiotics.

 

• Personal care products: we don’t want to alarm you, but the vast majority of cosmetic products contain lead, cadmium, and arsenic. If you usually wear makeup every day, you could be absorbing more than 2 kilograms of chemicals a year. Not to mention deodorants, creams, shampoo, etc. To counteract exposure to chemicals, go back to natural and look for organic products.

Now that you know which everyday items can affect your health, how are you going to replace them? Share your ideas with us. TAKE CARE OF YOUR WELL-BEING!

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