Harmful Chemicals
Harmful Chemicals that should be avoided.
Created: Jan 27, 2021 / Updated: Sep 20, 2021
Believe it or not, there are so many toiletries that the companies that make them or sell them call them ‘natural’, and they contain health-damaging chemicals. You will not believe how many times I get into conversations with friends or clients who assure me that the personal care products that they use are ‘natural‘ because the label says that they are made with ‘natural ingredients‘ or because they were purchased in a store that only sells natural products, so they consider these products safe. And while some of those products do contain some natural ingredients, most of them are not safe to be used in our bodies. The interesting part of those conversations comes when, after I asked them to read or to send me a picture with the list of ingredients, I show them a proof that those so-called ‘natural‘ products almost always contain at least one, if not many, man-made chemicals that are considered carcinogenic, allergenic or highly toxic. Then they immediately collect all their toiletries and start reading the ingredients list, and checking each of the ingredients, one by one. I’ve helped many people open their eyes and start searching for better products. And yes, many times, their health challenges have dramatically improved when they stopped using those harmful products. Reality is that you should not be rubbing into your skin any products or substances that you cannot eat, because they get absorbed through the skin and go directly into your blood, adding to the toxicity in the body. That is how many people get sick.
Harmful chemicals are thousands of substances used in personal care products, processed food and household cleaning products. Some of them are used as binders or antioxidants, others as preservatives, additives, colorants or they are mixed to create ‘addictive’ scents. They help the products have a good consistency, a great scent and a delicious taste when it comes to food. That’s how we get addicted to commercial products. In addition these chemicals are used for the fabrication of many products that we used in daily basis, like building materials, furniture, plastic, kitchenware and many more. Most (if not all) of the chemicals contained in all these products are harmful and detrimental for our body. Chemicals from the products we touch, get rapidly absorbed through the skin. Chemicals that we breath or inhale are absorbed thru the lungs. And chemicals found in the food that we eat, get absorbed through the wall of our intestine and make it to bloodstream as well. No matter how they enter into your blood, they will not do any good once they get there. They might damage your body and lead to disease.
Reality is that you don’t have to depend on commercial products. For example, body care products for external use can be made at home using a variety of wholesome foods. And many of them are not complicated to make. Here is an example of how I make my own moisturizer. And I can tell you, it is absolutely better than any other moisturizer that I have ever used: https://theladdertowellness.com/moisturizer-cream/
Below you will find a list of some of the chemicals and man-made substances that I would recommend to avoid in the products that you use. There are many more, but this is a good list to start. I also encourage you to do your own research. If any of the products that you use for your personal care, your household cleaning products of the food you eat contain any of the ingredients in the list below, I would encourage you to re-evaluate the use of that product. Far away from the benefit that it will represent for you, it might silently damage your body. You might surprised on how many of them you might find. Each one of them builds into the toxic load and sooner than later, it might affect your health.
Aluminum.
Use: due to the characteristics of this metal, it is used in so many products.
Found in products like: personal care products, like deodorants and make-up, as well as food cans, foils and kitchen utensils among others.
Other related names: Aluminium.
Health issues that have been linked: neurotoxicity, seizures, speech problems, slow growth in children, confusion, Alzheimer’s disease, fatigue and muscle weakness among others.
More information: it is considered a very toxic metal. Avoid cooking with aluminum kitchen utensil, as well as wrapping food in tin foil, especially when the food is warm.
Artificial flavors.
Use: a mix of substances and chemicals used to mimic certain flavors. They are made to smell and taste just like natural flavors.
Found in products like: processed food, health supplements and medications, among others.
Other related names: caramelized sugar.
Health issues that have been linked: allergies, hyperactivity and neurological disorders, depression, headaches, gastrointestinal upsets, and both respiratory and reproductive problems, among others.
More information: There are thousands of chemicals available that can be used in the creation of artificial flavors, and the food industry is not obliged to list each one of those ingredients in the food label.
Benzoic acid.
Use: as additive, preservative and as an anti-fungal agent in food. Also used as a PH adjustor.
Found in products like: some fruit juices, jams, jellies, pickles, relishes, ketchup and tomato paste, among others.
Other related names: Sodium Benzoate.
Health issues that have been linked: they are known to impair the absorption of nutrients as well as to lead to allergic reactions like asthma, eye, skin, nose and stomach irritation, hyperactivity in children, and it is known to affect the functionality of the nervous system.
BHA & BHT.
Use: as preservatives and antioxidants. .
Found in products like: some frozen dinners, cereals, baked goods, chewing gum and margarine, among others.
Other related names: BHA is also known as Butylated hydroxyanisole. BHT is known as Butylated hydroxytoluene.
Health issues that have been linked: malfunction of the nervous system and behavioral problems in children.
More information: Considered carcinogenic.
Chlorine.
Use: as disinfectant to kill bacteria, most commonly in the water and swimming pools.
Found in products like: tap water, cleaning products and swimming pools among others.
Health issues that have been linked: thyroid and endocrine disruptions, since the body can use it as a ‘replacement’ for iodine, when there is a deficiency in the body.
More information: it is considered a very toxic poison that affects every system in the body, particularly the immune system and the liver. It absorbs very well through the skin and by inhaling while swimming and having a bath. Inhale chlorine absorbs really well through the lungs into the bloodstream.
Dimethylpolysiloxane.
Use: as anticaking agent in food, to keep food from clumping. Also used as an emulsifier to help forming food together that normally wouldn’t mix, like oil and water. Used as well for foam formation.
Found in products like: food, cosmetics, caulk, sealants, adhesives, lubricants and anti-foaming agents, among other.
Fluoride.
Use: to prevent tooth decay.
Found in products like: toothpaste, mouthwashes and other dental products, as well as found in drinking water.
Health issues that have been linked: too much fluoride can lead to dental fluorosis (tiny white specs in the enamel of the teeth) or skeletal fluorosis, which can damage bones and joints. It has also be linked with thyroid and neurological problems.
More information: even though fluoride is recommended b dentists, it is known to be poisonous for every system in the body. Fluoride is added to water supply and given to babies in drops. If you are not familiar with its toxicity, I encourage you to investigate more about this chemical element.
Formaldehyde.
Use: it is a colorless and strong-smelling gas used in many building materials and household products.
Found in products like: plywood, fiberboard, adhesives, glues, pressed wood products, product coatings, latex paints and furniture, as well as in insulations materials among others.
Other related names: Formalin, Formic Aldehyde or Methanediol.
Health issues that have been linked: watery eyes, irritation of the eyes, airway passages, throat, and skin.
More information: it is considered toxic and carcinogenic. Aspartame is an atificial sweetener that contain methanol, which is metabolized into deadly formaldehyde within the brain.
Lanolin.
Use: is an oil secretion of sheep’s skin used as a moisturizer, because of its soothing properties.
Found in products like: lip balms, lotions and nipple creams among others.
Other related names: wool yolk, wool wax or wool grease.
Health issues that have been linked: eye, lip, mouth and throat swelling, skin allergies.
More information: it is non-toxic as a natural substance, but often contaminated with DDT and other pesticides.
Lead.
Use: as a soft and malleable metal, it is used in so many products.
Found in products like: cosmetics, paint, ceramic, pipes, plumbing material and gasoline among others.
Health issues that have been linked: behavior and learning disabilities, , hyperactivity, slow growth, hearing problems, anemia, cardiovascular, kidney and reproductive problems, as well as developmental problems in fetus, among others.
More information: considered carcinogenic and very toxic. The side effects of lead can occur so slowly that might be easy to over-look.
MSG.
Use: flavor enhancer.
Found in products like: frozen dinners, canned food, processed food and food made in fast-food restaurants among others.
Other related names: Monosodium Glutamate, Hydrolyzed vegetable protein, hydrolyzed yeast, autolyzed yeast vegetable powder and sometimes referred and natural flavor.
Health issues that have been linked: it is associated with a long list of health effects, like brain damage, behavioural disorders, headaches and hot flashes, among many others.
More information: There are not many other flavor enhancers that bring so much flavor to food. This is why food that contains MSG cause addiction. Vitamin B6 is necessary for the metabolism of MSG, and therefore, the consumption of MSG might lead to Vitamin B6 deficiency.
Nitrates and Nitrites.
Use: as preservatives in cured meats to extend their shelf life and to prevent pathogenic microbes to grow in these type of meats.
Found in products like: luncheon meats, ham, sausages, bacon, wieners, salami, bologna and some cheeses, among others.
Other related names: Sodium nitrate, Sodium Nitrite
Health issues that have been linked: lack of oxygen, difficulty breathing, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and dehydration, among others. Known to be carcinogenic.
More information: They give the pink color to luncheon meats. They are considered a very damaging substance.
Parabens.
Use: as preservative to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and mold, especially in products like cosmetics.
Found in products like: cosmetics, make-up removers, deodorants, antiperspirants, lotions, tan sprays, sunscreens, shampoos, cleansers and body was among others. .
Other related names: Other related substances are Methyl, Butyl, Propyl or Benzyl.
Health issues that have been linked: breast cancer, tumors, endocrine system disruption, reproductive disorders, hormonal changes and thyroid abnormalities, among others.
Phthalates.
Use: to make plastic more flexible and harder to break. Also used as solvent for other materials like cosmetics.
Found in products like: deodorant, antiperspirant, perfumes, fragrances, hair products, soaps, shampoos, skin cleansers, make-up, moisturizers, lotions and tan sprays among others. Also found in toys, vinyl flooring, detergents, food packaging, pharmaceuticals, blood bags and tubing, nail polish
Other related names: Dibutyl phthalate, Diethyl phthalate, Dimethyl phthalate, fragrance, MMP, MEP, MiBP, DMP, DEP, DiBP.
Health issues that have been linked: liver, kidney and lung damage as well as endocrine disruptions, among many others.
More information: they are one of the worst by-products of our plastic dependency, and its effects are cumulative. They are often called plasticizers. You can get exposed to them through building materials, household furnishing, soils and dust as well.
Propyl gallate.
Use: as food additive.
Found in products like: processed food, gravy mixtures and turkey sausages, among others.
Other related names: Gallic acid.
Health issues that have been linked: allergies and asthmatic reactions.
Propylene glycol.
Use: in food as a preservative, to keep ice cream soft (as an antifreeze), and to blend foods that don’t mix well with water. Also used to absorb extra water and maintain moisture in certain medicines, cosmetics and food products. It is a solvent for food colors and flavors, as well as for paint and plastics. Also used to create artificial smoke or fog used in fire fighter’s training and theatrical productions.
Found in products like: packaged foods, ice cream, drink mixes, dressings, dried soups, cake mixes, soft drinks, popcorn, food coloring and fast foods among others.
Other related names: Dihydroxypropane, Propanediol, Methyl glycol, Trimethyl glycol, Ethylene glycol.
Health issues that have been linked: considered carcinogenic.
Saccharin.
Use: as an artificial sweetener.
Found in products like: drinks, candies, cookies, and medicines, among others.
Other related names: sometimes mentioned in food labels as artificial sweetener or sugar substitute.
Health issues that have been linked: considered carcinogenic. Some studies have shown that it might disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gut.
Sodium Benzoate.
Use: as a surfactant for stains removal.
Found in products like: carbonated drinks, acidic foods like salad dressings, jams, juices, and condiments, among others.
Other related names: Benzoic acid.
Health issues that have been linked: when combined with ascorbic acid, it forms benzene, which is considered carcinogenic. Ironically it is used sometimes to treaet autism, however, some studies show that it increases hyperactivity.
Sodium Lauryl (Laureth) Sulfate.
Use: as a surfactant for stains removal and as a foaming agent.
Found in products like: hand soap, dish soap, detergents and shampoo, among others.
Other related names: Laurel Sulfate.
Health issues that have been linked: skin, eye and lung irritation, bring toxicity into the body and into the environment. See Also “Sulfates” section below.
Stevia.
Use: as an artificial sweetener.
Found in products like: processed food, candies and sold as a no-calorie sweetener powder.
Other related names: Truvia is an artificial sweetener derived from Stevia, which is very highly processed and therefore is even more compromising than the actual Stevia.
Health issues that have been linked: the food, in its whole food form, contains many components and health benefits that the human body need to digest it. The concern of Stevia is the amount of processing used to dry the Stevia plant, which includes heat and other methods that change the chemical structure of the plant and alters it from its whole food form (while the plant is green, some forms of stevia powdered sold are white). The processed Stevia is linked to reproduction issues, fertility problems, bloating, nausea and possible harm to the microbiome among others. It has been banned in some countries.
Sulfites.
Use: as antioxidants and preservatives, to keep fresh food from turning brown.
Found in products like: wine, beer, citrus drinks, potato products such as chips and fries, dried fruits, fruit snacks and many frozen items, among others.
Other related names: Sulfur dioxide, Sodium sulfite, Sodium bisulfate, Sodium metabisulfite, Potassium metabisulfite, Potassium sulfite and Potassium bisulfate.
Health issues that have been linked: skin rashes, flushing, abdominal pain, diarrhea and allergies among others.
Sulfates.
Use: as a detergent in many personal care products that helps remove dead skin cells from the skin and the scalp.
Found in products like: shampo, soap and tooth paste among others.
Other related names: Sodium lauryl sulfate, Sodium laureth sulfate, SLS, SLE.
Health issues that have been linked: irritation of skin, eyes, mouth and lungs.
More information: While the sulfates allow grime and dead skin cells to be removed from both skin and scalp, it also strips off natural oils from the skin, scalp and hair, and can make hair dry and brittle. Sulfates can also easily clog pores and lead to Acne.
Talc.
Use: used in many industries, including paper making, plastic, paint and coatings, rubber, food, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. It absorbs moisture well and helps cut down on friction, helping to keep skin dry and prevent rashes.
Found in products like: baby powder, adult facial powders, make-up blush,
Other related names: Talcum, Talcum powder, Magnesium silicate.
Health issues that have been linked: ovarian cancer when used close to the genital area. Best to avoid using it on babies.
More information: consider carcinogenic.
Titanium dioxide.
Use: as a pigment, brightener and opacifier to make products more opaque. This is due to its properties, like white color, opaqueness and its ability to refract light.
Found in products like: candies, pastries, coffee creamers, chocolates, cake decorations and chewing gum among others.
Other related names: Dioxane, Titanium oxide, Titania
Health issues that have been linked: nose, throat and skin irritation, tearing.
More information: they are inhaled and absorbed through the skin. They are highly carcinogenic.
Transglutaminase.
Use: as meat glue to bond any food containing protein, which means that it used to take lesser cuts of meats and ‘glue’ them together for resale as a higher cut of meat.
Found in products like: processed cheese, ahrd cheese, yogurt, cream cheese, vegetable protein dishes, deserts, seafood items and meat items, among others.
Other related names: T.
Health issues that have been linked: ADHD behaviors, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s and Huntington’s, as well as the development of cataracts in the eyes, arteriosclerosis and various skin disorders. Some studies show that once the proteins have been bonded by Transglutaminase, they are very hard to digest by the stomach enzymes.
Triclosan.
Use: to prevent odours, kill, remove or stop the growth of bacteria, fungus and mildew.
Found in products like: sanitizers, antibacterial products, body wash, soap, shampoo, deodorant, antiperspirant, hair products, eye and face makeup, fragrances, toothpaste, mouth wash and teeth whiteners, among others.
Other related names: Triclocarban.
Health issues that have been linked: heart disease, heart failure, reproductive disorders, hormonal changes, thyroid abnormalities, endocrine system disruption, muscle function disruption and skin irritations, among others.
Triethanolamine (TEA) & Diethanolamine (DEA).
Use: highly used cosmetics and personal care products.
Found in products like: cosmetics (foundation, mascara, eye shadow, blush, make-up bases), personal care products (shampoo, body wash, soap, bubble baths) as well as household cleaning products.
Other related names: TEA = Triethanolamine; DEA = Diethanolamine, MEA
Health issues that have been linked: irritants of eyes, skin and the respiratory tract.
More information: they form carcinogenic nitrosamines that are highly toxic.
I encourage you look for any of these ingredients in the food and products that you use at home, and, if found, consider replace that product with another one that contains better ingredients.
