"The body gets run down from unhealthy food choices, alcohol, caffeine, drugs, stress, and environmental toxins that are a part of modern-day life." - Food Matters
Introduction | VOCs | Phthalates | Parabens | Triclosan | PFASs | Bisphenols | Final Thoughts | References | Disclaimer
Introduction
Toxicity is defined as "the ability of a substance to cause poisonous effects resulting in severe biological harm or death after exposure to, or contamination with, that substance."[14]
The list of potentially harmful substances that are allowed to be used in the manufacturing of personal care and household products and items is very long. Even though many of them are allowed to be used as ingredients in small amounts, their cumulative effects on the human body may cause ill health. Substances such as VOCs, phthalates, parabens, PFASs, triclosan, and bisphenols are a few of the most common components of products that we use daily. They can also contribute to some health problems that we experience, such as hormonal imbalances, general toxicity, reproductive problems, and cognitive issues. Choosing safe and natural products can significantly improve the quality of our health.
Reduced exposure to volatile organic compounds [VOCs]
VOCs are man-made chemicals used and produced in paint, pharmaceuticals, and refrigerant manufacturing. Industrial solvents such as trichloroethylene produce VOCs, as do fuel oxygenates such as methyl tert-butyl ether [MTBE] or water treatment byproducts like chloroform. Typically, VOCs are contained in petroleum fuel, hydraulic fluid, paint thinners, and dry-cleaning solvents. Household items that are known to emit VOCs into the air are new furniture, new carpets, aerosol sprays, air fresheners, candles, new shower curtains, and others. Science has established that high concentrations of VOCs in the air are a health hazard.
According to the review carried out by Tsai[1], indoor volatile organic compounds [VOCs] were positively associated with a risk of developing carcinogenic changes in the tissues of the kidneys, nasal cavity, paranasal sinus, liver, and bile duct.
Furthermore, another review of the impact of VOCs on human health was conducted by Montero-Montoya, López-Vargas, and Arellano-Aguilar[2]. The scientists reported that exposure to BTEX compounds [benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes] was linked with an increased incidence of asthma, respiratory capacity problems, respiratory complications, frequent colds, soar throats, and coughs.
Lastly, Maung and colleagues[3] reported that the VOCs that impact indoor air quality are most commonly emitted by household products, cleaning agents, glue, personal care products, building materials, and vehicle emissions. Their high concentrations contribute to the development of the previously mentioned asthma, upper respiratory illnesses, and cancer.
Lowered presence of phthalates
In plastics, phthalates improve durability. They are also used to dissolve other materials. Many products contain these chemicals, including vinyl flooring, lubricating oils, and personal care products [soaps, shampoos, and hair sprays]. Personal care products usually list them as fragrances. Phthalates are known endocrine disruptors and cause hormonal imbalances. It is possible to become exposed to phthalates in several ways, including via inhalation, ingestion, and transplacental transfer.
A review of literature conducted by Hlisníková et al.[4] reported on the impact of phthalates on human reproductive health.
The scientists found evidence that these chemicals cause hormonal imbalances that lead to prenatal and postnatal impairment in reproductive development. In women, phthalate exposure is linked with reproductive disorders such as "POF [premature ovarian failure], decreased fecundity, adverse pregnancy outcomes, gynecological cancer, or the modulation of pubertal onset and pubertal symptoms in girls."
Additionally, they negatively influence spermatogenesis [the production of sperm]. They can also lead to the occurrence of cancer and alter gene expression and epigenetic processes, which is indicative of the transgenerational effect they have on the human body.
Furthermore, a research study was carried out by Jankowska et al.[5] and looked at the impact of phthalates on neurodevelopmental outcomes in school-age children. The researchers observed that dimethyl phthalate [DMP] was associated with poor behavior outcomes, such as peer relationship issues. In addition, DMP impacted the intellectual abilities of children and lowered their mathematical skills. Similarly, di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP) was linked with behavior issues such as emotional problems and hyperactivity/attention problems. Moreover, DnBP lowered intellectual test scores and negatively impacted mathematical skills. Jankowska and colleagues concluded that phthalate exposure has a negative influence on cognitive and behavioral development in children.
Paraben-free personal care products
Parabens are artificial preservatives. They are commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products to prevent the growth and development of hazardous bacteria and mold. At the same time, they enhance the shelf life of the products. Parabens are known endocrine disruptors and can contribute to the development of cancer.
A review of scientific literature, carried out by Hager, Chen, and Zhao[6], analyzed data regarding the impact of paraben exposure on breast cancer. The reviewers noted that parabens have estrogenic activity. They impact the estrogen receptors [ER receptors] and influence gene expression, which these receptors mediate. In addition, parabens affect several signaling pathways [such as the HER2 signaling pathway] involved in the development of breast cancer. They also modulate estrogen levels by inducing the conversion of androgens into estrogens.
A cross-sectional study designed by Guth et al.[7] investigated the impact of parabens on reproductive hormones in girls aged 6–17 years. The examination of urinary samples revealed that girls who had higher concentrations of parabens also had lowered levels of estradiol, luteinizing hormone [LH], and follicle-stimulating hormone [FSH].
Additionally, "a doubling in the sum of urinary parabens was associated with 5.8% lower estradiol, 4.2% lower FSH, and 10.8% lower LH".
Guth and colleagues concluded that parabens reduce the concentration of reproductive hormones in girls.
Natural products have no triclosan
Triclosan is a preservative used in cosmetics, primarily as a way to prevent bacteria from growing on the product and spoiling it. Other personal care products, such as deodorants, soaps, and shower gels, also contain this biocide. Likewise, it is used in toothpaste and other dental products to help control plaque and promote gum health.
A review of scientific data conducted by Weatherly and Gosse[8] focused on examining triclosan-induced health effects. The scientists reported that triclosan disrupts mitochondrial functioning, causes hormonal imbalances and reactive oxygen species [ROS] production, and impacts the cardiovascular system. Furthermore, high concentrations of this chemical are associated with reproductive and developmental defects in infants.
A cohort study carried out by Jackson-Browne et al.[9] looked at triclosan neurotoxicity in children.
Scientists found that high levels of triclosan in urine samples taken at birth were a strong indicator of how well children would do in school when they were 8 years old. Elevated triclosan levels at birth significantly lowered IQ test scores and perceptual reasoning scores in children.
Fewer per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances [PFASs]
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances are human-made chemicals manufactured and added to cosmetics to make them more water-resistant, easily spreadable, and long-lasting. In addition, they are a common compound found in nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, carpeting, food packaging, and many others. PFASs, aka "forever chemicals," are persistent environmental pollutants found in wildlife, plants, water, and soil. Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctane Sulfonate [PFOS] are the two most popular chemicals that belong to the PFAS family. They break down very slowly and build up in the bodily tissues, leading to various health complications.
A review of the literature conducted by Brase, Mullin, and Spink[10]analyzed data on PFAS exposure and its impact on human health. The reviewers found evidence suggesting that PFASs have immunotoxic effects on the body, such as reduced antibody response. Furthermore, they impaired bone mineralization by disrupting vitamin D activity. They also led to liver cancer, induced oxidative stress, and altered cell proliferation.
A population-based study designed by Hærvig et al.[11] looked at the links between maternal PFAS exposure and its impact on male reproductive capacity in adulthood. The researchers evaluated the quality of semen of 864 Danish men whose mothers had detectable levels of PFASs in the first trimester of their pregnancy. Hærvig and colleagues observed that these young males had lower sperm concentrations, lower sperm count, and a higher proportion of nonprogressive and immotile sperm. Additionally, the scientists identified PFHpA, PFOA, PFOS, PFDA, PFHxS, and PFUnDA as contributors to these health outcomes.
Reduced exposure to bisphenol A [BPA], bisphenol S [BPS], and bisphenol F [BPF]
Bisphenol A is a recognized endocrine disruptor that mimics estrogen and interacts with estrogen receptors. It is used in the production of polycarbonate and epoxy plastics. Polycarbonate plastic is used in a wide variety of products, including CDs, DVDs, dental materials, and drinking bottles. Additionally, epoxy plastic is used in electronics, building materials, adhesives, and as a protective coating for canned foods and soda bottles. The health effects of BPA have led some manufacturers to replace it with Bisphenol S and Bisphenol F. However, these compounds also raise some health concerns.
A study carried out by Winkler et al.[12] investigated the impact of the replacement bisphenols [BPS and BPF] on mammary gland [breast] tissues. These researchers found that BPS and BPF can cause cancer on both the proteomic and morphologic levels. Winkler and colleagues concluded that BPS and BPF should not be considered safe replacements for BPA.
A review of the science conducted by Rochester and Bolden[13] reported on the effects of bisphenols F and S on the endocrine system. The reviewers analyzed data from 32 studies and found that BPF and BPS show the same hormonal activity as BPA. Across various studies, BPF and BPS had estrogenic, antiandrogenic, genotoxic, cytotoxic, and mutagenic effects. Furthermore, bisphenol S affected cellular apoptosis and survival signaling, whereas bisphenol F showed thyroidogenic activity and decreased the production and secretion of adiponectin.
Final Thoughts
The amounts of toxicants and toxins we find in our households can be overwhelming to manage. Most of the products that we use on an everyday basis are filled with substances that can cause harm to our health. Among the chemicals we come into contact with every day are VOCs, phthalates, parabens, triclosan, PFASs, and bisphenols. Many are known to be endocrine disruptors, carcinogens, neurotoxins, and genotoxins. They may lead to reproductive, cognitive, and immune problems. Limiting the number of harsh chemicals and opting for safer personal care and household products will benefit our well-being and help us maintain our health.
References
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