9 common toxins you are using every day that harm your health directly

You may not realize it but everyday products, from packaged foods to cosmetics can contain harmful toxins.(Image: Pexels)

You might imagine you are living a decent lifestyle—eating healthy, exercising, cleaning up around yourself. Or what if the actual risk factor to your health is lurking silently in your routine?

Mumbai-based preventive health specialist, Dr Renu Malhotra says, every day items that we rely on, such as food containers, pots and pans, skincare products, and even household cleaning supplies all contain toxins that contribute to toxin accumulation in the body and lead to chronic damage. These include hormone and organ-function disrupting toxins linked to infertility, cancer, and neurological disorders. Even worse is the normalcy of these products in our current lifestyles

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Plastic bottles and containers that contain BPA

BPA, or bisphenol A, is a chemical used in many plastic bottles and food storage containers. One such thing that can seep into the food you consume or even the drink that you have is when it is heated. BPA is an estrogen mimicker-reproductive and endocrine disruptor hormone which affects our hormonal balance, causes fertility issues and increases our cancer risk over time.

Pesticide residues on produce

Unless the produce is organic, many fruits and vegetables have pesticide residue. And they are associated with neurological problems, as hormone disruptors and even some forms of cancer. You can drastically reduce how much of these toxins you consume each day just by washing produce well or by eating organic.

Artificial sweeteners in diet foods

Commonly used in "sugar-free" or "diet" products, artificial sweeteners (known by names such as aspartame and sucralose) may have negative impacts on our gut bacteria, can cause increased cravings, and may reduce our ability to effectively metabolize glucose. Sensitive individuals have also been known to experience headaches and mood swings during regular use.

Parabens in personal care products

Parabens are used as preservatives in many shampoos, lotions, and cosmetics. This includes those chemicals that mimic estrogen and lead to hormone related health issues such as breast cancer and reproductive issues. While you can never completely eliminate exposure, choosing a paraben-free skincare can limit your long-term exposure.

Mercury in certain fish

Certain types of seafood (e.g. tuna, swordfish, mackerel) may have high levels of mercury—a heavy metal that can impact the nervous systems of young children and pregnant women. The risk can be reduced by avoiding high-mercury fish, as well as opting for salmon instead.

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Packaged foods and products with phthalates

Phthalates are used in plastics and can leach into food, especially fatty foods such as cheese or meat. These substances are hormone disruptors and are also believed to be involved in developmental and reproductive problems. To minimize plastic use, you can replace plastic with glass or stainless steel.

Preservatives in processed meats

Processed meats, including sausages, bacon or deli cuts, usually contain sodium nitrates and nitrites to extend the shelf-life of the product, yet they are associated with higher risk of cancers such as the colorectal cancer [6]. You can reduce your risk by choosing fresh, unprocessed meats or meats that do not contain nitrates.

Air fresheners contains Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

When it comes to air fresheners and other options that advertise their ability to erase odours from your home they also release VOCs that can irritate the lungs, headache, and even affect the central nervous system with long-term exposure. Fragrance from natural sources such as essential oils or homemade sprays are great options that do not come with the toxic load.

Fumes from non-stick cookware

Teflon is a popular non-stick coating found on less expensive cookware and when overheated, non-stick pans can emit toxic fumes and/or particles that result in flu-like symptoms called "Teflon flu." It has also been associated with liver damage and developmental problems over the long term. Instead, try safer choices such as cast iron or stainless steel.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.