Unquestionably, advancements in science and chemistry have made life easier. Because of chemicals, you can eliminate pests in and around your home. Keeping your lawn green and lush is easier if you use certain chemical products. You can even do housekeeping chores that were back-breaking for past generations with little effort if you use the right solvents, disinfectants and cleaners.
However, along with the effectiveness of these and other chemicals comes the risk of toxic exposure. In fact, if you are conscious of that risk and reluctant to expose your family to potential harm, you probably limit the number of chemical products you keep in the home, opting for more natural solutions. Unfortunately, your efforts may be in vain if you are not aware of where dangerous toxins hide.
Unavoidable danger
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals are among the most common toxins in the environment, and you likely have exposure to them throughout your day. EDCs upset the normal function of the hormones in your body at the cellular level, and this can lead to serious and even deadly illnesses, such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer. EDCs can also interfere with the reproductive process by reducing fertility in both men and women and hastening both puberty and menopause. Unfortunately, it is nearly impossible to avoid EDCs since they occur in:
- Food, especially processed foods, and meats or produce exposed to pesticides
- Detergents
- Packaging products, such as plastic containers
- Plasticware, such as disposable plates, cups and utensils
- Cosmetics, especially those with synthetic fragrances or those in plastic containers
Even toys could have certain types of EDCs, including BPA, phthalates or arsenic. While it may be impossible to avoid all exposure to EDCs, you can look for products labeled free of these toxins.
Have you faced exposure?
Perhaps you have been using products that have no label or warning about the level of EDCs they contain. These may even be items you use for personal hygiene, health or beauty regimens, or household cleaning. You might be unaware of the connection between the use of these products and certain health issues you are experiencing.
Sadly, this is all too common, along with the fact that many manufacturers know the levels of EDCs in their products but keep the information from the public. You have a right to know the truth about the risks you are taking, and you have the right to pursue justice if toxic exposure has caused illness or injury to you or those you love.
