|
We are exposed to environmental toxins every
day. Many times, the limited level of exposure
is not harmful, but over time this exposure can
damage our bodies. Below is a list of common environmental
toxins, where they are found and their harmful
effects.
Heavy Metals
Found in drinking water, fish,
vaccines, pesticides, preserved wood, antiperspirant,
building materials, dental amalgams, chlorine
plants
Can cause cancer, neurological disorders,
Alzheimer's disease, fatigue, nausea, abnormal
heart rhythm, and damage to blood vessels |
PCBs (Polychlorinated
biphenyls)
Found in farm-raised
salmon
Can cause cancer, impaired fetal brain development |
Dioxins
Found in animal fats
Can cause cancer, reproductive disorders,
chloracne, skin rashes, and skin discoloration |
Pesticides
Found in bug sprays, commercially raised
meats, and other foods
Can cause cancer, Parkinson's disease, miscarriage,
nerve damage, and birth defects |
Phthalates
Found in plastic wrap, plastic bottles,
and other plastic food containers
Can cause endocrine system damage |
VOCs (Volatile
Organic Compounds)
Found in drinking water, paint, deodorants,
cosmetics, and dry cleaned clothing
Can cause cancer, eye irritation,
headaches, and memory impairment |
Asbestos
Found in flooring insulation,
ceilings, water pipes, and heating ducts
from the 1950s to 1970s
Can cause cancer, scarring of the
lung tissue, mesothelioma |
Chlorine
Found in household cleaners
and drinking water
Can cause sore throat, coughing, eye
irritation, rapid breathing, narrowing of
the bronchi, wheezing, blue coloring of
the skin, pain in the lung region, and lung
collapse |
Chloroform
Found in air, drinking water,
and food
Can cause cancer, reproductive damage,
birth defects, dizziness, fatigue and headaches |
Although it is almost impossible to completely
avoid these toxins, you can take a number of preventative
measures to limit your exposure, including:
- Avoiding processed foods
- Buying and eating organic foods
- Avoiding artificial air fresheners
- Testing your tap water for toxins
- Using only natural cleaning products
- Switching over to natural brands of shampoo,
toothpaste, and cosmetics
|
