Danger In Our Homes?

Susie Morrison highlights some of the dangers that are found in our everyday household and toiletry products.

Whilst many of us are increasingly careful about the content of the food we eat, when it comes to the chemicals in our bathroom and household products, we are much less likely to read the list of "ingredients" before making our purchases. We tend to be very trusting and presume that it wouldn't be sold if it wasn't safe. But would it?

Amazingly, only a very small proportion of the many new chemicals to emerge each year are thoroughly tested for toxicity before being introduced, whilst others that have long been known to be potentially harmful, even carcinogenic, have still not been removed from many of the everyday brands we use. It is known that toxins can enter our bloodstream through the skin, our body's largest organ, and a growing number of health professionals are becoming concerned about the potential long-term effects this "toxic load" may be having on our health.

A number of conditions like chronic fatigue, ADHD, asthma, eczema, allergies and food intolerances are suspected of being influenced by environmental factors such as chemicals in our food and in our household and bathroom products. Many people also believe that the increasing incidence of these conditions in our children may be due, at least in part, to their exposure to damaging chemicals at a young age.

So what can we do to protect ourselves against this toxic onslaught? It makes sense to replace potentially harmful products in the home with safe alternatives wherever possible, including shampoos, toothpaste, cosmetics, skin care and cleaning products. Look for products free of sodium lauryl sulphate, sodium laureth sulphate, propylene glycol, talc, aluminium, mineral oils and fluoride.

To find out more about safe bathroom and household products, call Susie Morrison on 01622 812274