Chemicals to Avoid
THE PROBLEM
Most of us are not exposed to these chemicals in large quantities, but we are exposed to them in tiny quantities, often and regularly. They are slowly building up in our bodies and it is this toxic body burden that is leading to health problems later in life.
THE SOLUTION
Educating ourselves on which products possible contain them and how they can be avoided, is an important step forward in ensuring a longer, healthier life, as well as protecting our precious planet.
Here are just a few of the chemicals that you need to know about;
asbestos - a toxic substance when inhaled - its use in both commercial and residential properties was only fully banned late 1999. It can still be found in pipe laggings, vinyl tiles, ceiling and wall coverings, roof tiles, sprayed insulation….SOLUTION: before you have any remedial work done to an area of your house you suspect may contain asbestos, request a visit from a local asbestos surveyor and they can give you the best guidance.
benzene - a toxic VOC - cigarette smoke, glues, adhesives, paint strippers, paraffin wax candles and other petroleum-based products (plus having previously been used in cosmetic products) - it is known to change cells, has links to leukaemia and can be deadly. SOLUTION: avoiding first and second-hand cigarette smoke, switching paraffin wax candles to natural wax candles, searching for products using website like: www.skinsafeproducts.com
cadmium - a toxic heavy metal - found in batteries, pigments, metal coatings and plastics. As well as being in certain foods - cereals and cereal products, vegetables, nuts and pulses, starchy roots or potatoes, and meat and meat products. Cadium is toxic to the kidneys and is a human carcinogen. SOLUTION: stop smoking
dioxin and dioxin-like substances are a group of Persistent Environmental Pollutants (POPs) that accumulate in fatty tissue and can be found in our food-chain, predominantly animal based products. They are carcinogenic and can cause reproductive and developmental problems, damage the immune system and interfere with hormone production. Dioxins mainly come from combustion sources. SOLUTION: if you have a wood or coal burner ensure it is fitted by a registered professional and is properly ventilated. Dioxins are also found in the fatty parts of meat so best to trim them off and maintain a healthy varied diet.
formaldehyde - used within adhesives and often found in flat packed furniture. Remember the ‘new’ smell that comes with a newly built piece of furniture? Well that furniture is off-gassing as the chemicals contained within the adhesives and paint become air-borne. Off-gassing can continue for six months up to five years and it is a severe respiratory tract and skin irritant which may cause dizziness or with serious exposure, suffocation. SOLUTION: if you must buy items made with particle board, be sure to allow the product to sit in an empty well-ventilated room for as long as possible (a week min) so to off-gas the first really strong hit of chemicals. Buying second hand or vintage furniture will negate this issue as any potential chemicals should already have off-gassed.
glyphosate (commonly used toxic herbicide) and thiamethoxam (a commonly used toxic neonicotinoid insecticide)- we are slowly destroying eco-systems, polluting our waterways, severely reducing our insect population and damaging our own health with the continued use of these toxic agents - all in the name of food production! SOLUTION: Read here to find out ways you can help our bees.
toluene - in paint cleaners, thinners, lacquers and nail polish - with small amounts you may develop a mild headache, dizziness, drowsiness, or nausea. With more serious exposure, toluene may cause sleepiness, stumbling, irregular heartbeat, fainting, or even death. SOLUTION: when handling any kind of the products mentioned above, be sure to do so in a well ventilated area.
If you have a project in mind and would like some healthier interior advice, please contact me for a free discovery call.