Having trouble keeping those New Year’s resolutions to eat a healthy diet and get fit? You’re not alone.
Many people make New Year’s resolutions to eat a healthy diet and improve their fitness but start to waver a few weeks after New Year’s. Even though it’s easy to resolve to get fit and healthy, it’s hard to stay committed to keeping those New Year’s resolutions to start eating a healthy diet and to get fit.
There are some easy ways to stay on track and meet your goals of eating healthier and staying or getting fit.
Get the Family Involved
It sounds simple, but it can be difficult to get the whole household on board with your plans to eat healthier food and get fit. It’s a lot easier to eat healthy meals when everyone in the family is eating the same healthy meals. If you are the only one in the house trying to eat more healthy foods and you’re still preparing meals filled with fried or high fat food for everyone else you’ll be tempted to eat what they’re eating. The same thing goes for snacks. Eating a healthy snack of fruit or vegetables looks less appealing when everyone else is eating chips or pizza. Getting in the habit of exercising regularly will be easier if someone else in the family is exercising with you. Try taking a walk around the neighborhood as a family or take your partner running with you. Exercising is more fun when it’s not done alone. Many gyms and fitness centers offer special rates for families, so make time during the week for the whole family to hit the gym and take a yoga class, go swimming, play basketball, or just workout with weights. Joining a gym will make sure that there is an activity that everyone in the family will enjoy. Having family support is the best way to keep those New Year’s resolutions to eat healthy and get fit.
Use the Calendar
It may sound like a wacky idea, but a great way to stay on track to meeting your New Year’s resolutions to eat better and get fit is to get a large wall calendar, the type that shows the whole month or the whole year at one time. Take a red or yellow marker and put a big “X” on the calendar everyday that you exercise, and use a different colored market to put an “X” on each day that you eat healthy. After awhile, when your motivation starts to wane, looking at the calendar and the chain of X’s will motivate you to exercise and eat healthy in order to keep the chain going. The calendar can also help keep other family members motivated to eat better and exercise as well.
Reward Yourself
To help keep your motivation high to meet your New Year’s resolutions of eating healthy and getting fit reward yourself when you meet particular goals. In the beginning, make a list of diet and fitness goals you want to achieve. When you achieve them, reward yourself with a non food item like flowers, a new plant, new clothes, a new workout DVD, a gym membership, or some other fun item that will help keep you motivated to keep going. A great reward can be treating yourself to an introductory class in something that might become a new hobby for you. When you lose five pounds, try taking a ceramics class, a horseback riding lesson, or a belly dancing class. When you eat healthy for an entire month with no slip ups, take a healthy cooking class or a class on organic gardening.
Public speaker, author and ambassador for the next generation, Keeta Gibson publishes the popular e-newsletter from Non Toxic Life, your online eco-store for pure, natural everyday items and earthwise goods. Get your FREE tips on health, wellbeing and everything environmentally friendly now at www.NonToxicLife.com.au.
Jan 24, 2010
Nov 16, 2009
Considering the cervical cancer vaccine?
Dr Diane Harper, lead researcher in developing Gardasil and Cervarix, says these drugs will do little to lower cervical cancer rates and, even though they're recommended for girls as young as nine, there have been no trials in children under 15. Read the full article from the Bulletin
Be the first to hear about new natural products plus health and wellness tips, subscribe to get your FREE updates now at www.NonToxicLife.com.au.
Be the first to hear about new natural products plus health and wellness tips, subscribe to get your FREE updates now at www.NonToxicLife.com.au.
Nov 2, 2009
Motivate and Lose Weight by Avoiding These Weight Loss Mistakes
Some people are habitual dieters. This means that they are always looking for ways to shed the excess and unwanted pounds. Some people diet quite successfully. However, other people fall into common dieting traps that prevent them from losing the weight. If you are trying a new diet or you are looking to live a healthier life by changing the way you eat, here are some common mistakes that many people make when they are watching their weight.
Eating too many low-fat or low calorie foods: If you are dieting, you often think that eating low-fat or low-calorie foods is the way to go. While it is certainly true that it is better to choose a low-fat food over a high-fat food, the mistake comes when you eat too many low-fat foods for the simple reason that they are low-fat. You have to remember that even low-fat foods add a bit when it comes to calories. For example, if you are considering eating a chocolate chip cookie, you may have two choices, a low-fat cookie and a regular full fat cookie. One regular chocolate chip cookie may be 150 calories and 6 grams of fat and a low-fat cookie may very well be 150 calories and 2 grams of fat. This may lead you to believe that you can eat two or three of the low-fat cookies. But one look at the calories will tell you that eating three add up to 450 calories! The normal person that is dieting will aim for eating anywhere from 1200-2000 calories a day. You can see that 450 calories takes a big chunk out of your daily calorie allowance. If you plan on eating low fat foods, you should treat them as any other food and eat them in moderation.
Not exercising: Most people just do not love to exercise. However, if you are actively trying to lose weight, some form of physical activity each day is a necessity. You do not have to be a marathon runner in order to get the right amount of exercise each day. Start off slow by walking a couple of times around your block and then build up from there. Not exercising is the worst thing you can do for any diet. Make sure that if you are trying to lose weight, you add in exercise to help you shed the pounds faster.
Splurging or rewarding yourself with food: Everyone, whether dieting or not, deserves an occasional treat here and there. However, if you are serious about your weight loss, then you need to take a hard look at these little splurges that you may take. When dieting experts recommend that you splurge every now and then, that doesn't mean every day or even once a week. Instead, it means that you should eat a small amount of your favorite food a couple of times a month. It also does not mean that you can eat an entire pepperoni pizza on your splurging days. One or two slices are all that you should have. Moderation is the key to any successful dieting program. Another common mistake that people make when they diet is to reward themselves with food. This does nothing for your diet. So if you are looking to reward yourself for a small victory in your weight, then consider buying yourself a new pair of shoes, getting a manicure or buying a new book. These types of rewards will not cause you to gain weight.
When you are serious about losing weight, then you need to stay focused and motivated. Understanding the common dieting traps will help you do this and will also help you lose the weight and keep it off.
Be the first to hear about new natural products plus health and wellness tips, subscribe to get your FREE updates now at www.NonToxicLife.com.au.
Eating too many low-fat or low calorie foods: If you are dieting, you often think that eating low-fat or low-calorie foods is the way to go. While it is certainly true that it is better to choose a low-fat food over a high-fat food, the mistake comes when you eat too many low-fat foods for the simple reason that they are low-fat. You have to remember that even low-fat foods add a bit when it comes to calories. For example, if you are considering eating a chocolate chip cookie, you may have two choices, a low-fat cookie and a regular full fat cookie. One regular chocolate chip cookie may be 150 calories and 6 grams of fat and a low-fat cookie may very well be 150 calories and 2 grams of fat. This may lead you to believe that you can eat two or three of the low-fat cookies. But one look at the calories will tell you that eating three add up to 450 calories! The normal person that is dieting will aim for eating anywhere from 1200-2000 calories a day. You can see that 450 calories takes a big chunk out of your daily calorie allowance. If you plan on eating low fat foods, you should treat them as any other food and eat them in moderation.
Not exercising: Most people just do not love to exercise. However, if you are actively trying to lose weight, some form of physical activity each day is a necessity. You do not have to be a marathon runner in order to get the right amount of exercise each day. Start off slow by walking a couple of times around your block and then build up from there. Not exercising is the worst thing you can do for any diet. Make sure that if you are trying to lose weight, you add in exercise to help you shed the pounds faster.
Splurging or rewarding yourself with food: Everyone, whether dieting or not, deserves an occasional treat here and there. However, if you are serious about your weight loss, then you need to take a hard look at these little splurges that you may take. When dieting experts recommend that you splurge every now and then, that doesn't mean every day or even once a week. Instead, it means that you should eat a small amount of your favorite food a couple of times a month. It also does not mean that you can eat an entire pepperoni pizza on your splurging days. One or two slices are all that you should have. Moderation is the key to any successful dieting program. Another common mistake that people make when they diet is to reward themselves with food. This does nothing for your diet. So if you are looking to reward yourself for a small victory in your weight, then consider buying yourself a new pair of shoes, getting a manicure or buying a new book. These types of rewards will not cause you to gain weight.
When you are serious about losing weight, then you need to stay focused and motivated. Understanding the common dieting traps will help you do this and will also help you lose the weight and keep it off.
Be the first to hear about new natural products plus health and wellness tips, subscribe to get your FREE updates now at www.NonToxicLife.com.au.
Sep 14, 2009
Is Your Home Killing You?
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Australians now spend more than 90%of their time indoors: at home, at work, at school and as we travel in cars and public transport. It makes sense then to create our indoor spaces as healthy and safe as we can for our families.
Numerous everyday items found in and around our homes such as household cleaners, carpets, furniture, personal care products and pesticides can produce chemicals that when combined together can reduce the quality of the air inside our home and may have impacts on our health.
Many modern day illnesses are increasingly being linked to chemicals that we are exposed to in our homes. It is now widely recognised that babies and young children are at greater risk from chemical exposures, which could impact on their health and ability to learn.
What Makes A House Toxic?
CEILING
Lead contaminated dust which can contribute to lead poisoning can accumulate in walls, ceilings and under floors.
LIVING ROOM
Carpets, furnishings, paint and chemical cleaning products can give off volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are released into the air over time. Often described as that pleasant, "new smell," VOCs can be harmful. Short-term exposure to VOCs can cause headaches, nausea and irritate eyes, throat and nose.
KITCHEN
Unflued gas appliances are major emitters of indoor air pollutants (including nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide). Some drain cleaners and oven cleaners contain corrosive chemicals that can burn skin and mucous membranes.
BATHROOM
Air fresheners, disinfectants, window cleaners and anti-mold cleaners often contain chemicals such as solvents, bleach, ammonia and chlorine.
Personal care products such as deodorants, perfumes, aftershave and hairspray can also contribute to the chemicals indoors.
BEDROOM
Dry cleaned clothes, new mattresses and particleboard furniture can give off chemical fumes.
FLOORS
Pest treatments applied under floors can give off fumes that may enter inside and contaminate the soil outside.
GARDEN
Some garden chemicals and pesticides used indoors or outdoors are powerful poisons.
Six Steps to a Healthier Home
1. Open windows and doors to “air out” rooms well
2. Use natural and organic personal care products.
3. Replace fume emitting furnishings and coverings
4. Eliminate chemical pesticides from the home and go organic in the garden
5. Shift to natural cleaning products
6. Renovate with natural and low-toxic materials
Public speaker, author and ambassador for the next generation, Keeta Gibson publishes the popular e-newsletter from Non Toxic Life, your online eco-store for pure, natural everyday items and earthwise goods. Get your FREE tips on health, wellbeing and everything environmentally friendly now at www.NonToxicLife.com.au.
Numerous everyday items found in and around our homes such as household cleaners, carpets, furniture, personal care products and pesticides can produce chemicals that when combined together can reduce the quality of the air inside our home and may have impacts on our health.
Many modern day illnesses are increasingly being linked to chemicals that we are exposed to in our homes. It is now widely recognised that babies and young children are at greater risk from chemical exposures, which could impact on their health and ability to learn.
What Makes A House Toxic?
CEILING
Lead contaminated dust which can contribute to lead poisoning can accumulate in walls, ceilings and under floors.
LIVING ROOM
Carpets, furnishings, paint and chemical cleaning products can give off volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are released into the air over time. Often described as that pleasant, "new smell," VOCs can be harmful. Short-term exposure to VOCs can cause headaches, nausea and irritate eyes, throat and nose.
KITCHEN
Unflued gas appliances are major emitters of indoor air pollutants (including nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide). Some drain cleaners and oven cleaners contain corrosive chemicals that can burn skin and mucous membranes.
BATHROOM
Air fresheners, disinfectants, window cleaners and anti-mold cleaners often contain chemicals such as solvents, bleach, ammonia and chlorine.
Personal care products such as deodorants, perfumes, aftershave and hairspray can also contribute to the chemicals indoors.
BEDROOM
Dry cleaned clothes, new mattresses and particleboard furniture can give off chemical fumes.
FLOORS
Pest treatments applied under floors can give off fumes that may enter inside and contaminate the soil outside.
GARDEN
Some garden chemicals and pesticides used indoors or outdoors are powerful poisons.
Six Steps to a Healthier Home
1. Open windows and doors to “air out” rooms well
2. Use natural and organic personal care products.
3. Replace fume emitting furnishings and coverings
4. Eliminate chemical pesticides from the home and go organic in the garden
5. Shift to natural cleaning products
6. Renovate with natural and low-toxic materials
Public speaker, author and ambassador for the next generation, Keeta Gibson publishes the popular e-newsletter from Non Toxic Life, your online eco-store for pure, natural everyday items and earthwise goods. Get your FREE tips on health, wellbeing and everything environmentally friendly now at www.NonToxicLife.com.au.
Sep 7, 2009
Mouthwash Linked to Cancer
Leading independent experts have published their findings in the Dental Journal of Australia and stated that there is now "sufficient evidence" that "alcohol-containing mouthwashes contribute to the increased risk of development of oral cancer".
The ethanol in mouthwash is thought to allow cancer-causing substances to permeate the lining of the mouth more easily and cause harm.
Acetaldehyde, a toxic by-product of alcohol that may accumulate in the oral cavity when swished around the mouth, is also believed to be carcinogenic.
Listerine, the nation's (Australia's) biggest-selling mouthwash and a brand endorsed by the Australian Dental Association (ADA), contains as much as 26 per cent alcohol.
Use organic certified mouthwash to kill bacteria and leave your breath smelling sweet and fresh!
Public speaker, author and ambassador for the next generation, Keeta Gibson publishes the popular e-newsletter from Non Toxic Life, your online eco-store for pure, natural everyday products and earthwise goods. Get your FREE tips on health and wellbeing and everything environmentally friendly now at www.NonToxicLife.com.au
The ethanol in mouthwash is thought to allow cancer-causing substances to permeate the lining of the mouth more easily and cause harm.
Acetaldehyde, a toxic by-product of alcohol that may accumulate in the oral cavity when swished around the mouth, is also believed to be carcinogenic.
Listerine, the nation's (Australia's) biggest-selling mouthwash and a brand endorsed by the Australian Dental Association (ADA), contains as much as 26 per cent alcohol.
Use organic certified mouthwash to kill bacteria and leave your breath smelling sweet and fresh!
Public speaker, author and ambassador for the next generation, Keeta Gibson publishes the popular e-newsletter from Non Toxic Life, your online eco-store for pure, natural everyday products and earthwise goods. Get your FREE tips on health and wellbeing and everything environmentally friendly now at www.NonToxicLife.com.au
Aug 19, 2009
Why You Should Be Concerned About Teflon
The potentially toxic chemicals in non stick products are perfluorochemicals, which use the elements fluorine and carbon to make non-stick and stain-resistant coatings. Perfluorochemicals have a molecular structure that prevents them from binding with water or oil, which is why they are so useful in numerous consumer items – but there’s a catch!
Scientists are now focusing on two members of this chemical family for potential toxicity: perfluorooctanoic acid, or PFOA for short, and perfluorooctanyl sulfonate, (PFOS). The chemicals have been used to make some of the world's most famous brand names, including Teflon and Scotchgard. They can be found in such items as non stick cookware, water or stain resistant clothing and carpets, some fast-food wrappers (which resist grease), pizza boxes, microwave popcorn containers, nail polishes and shaving cream.
DuPont Co. said its Teflon frying pans and other kitchenware are safe if used properly (at temperatures they are intended to be used). However, in two to five minutes on a conventional stovetop, cookware coated with Teflon and other non-stick surfaces can exceed temperatures at which the coating breaks apart and emits toxic particles and gases. These toxins are linked to pet bird deaths and an unknown number of human illnesses each year, according to tests commissioned by Environmental Working Group (EWG). DuPont studies show that the Teflon off-gases toxic particulates at 230°C/446°F. At 360°C/680°F Teflon pans release at least six toxic gases, including two carcinogens, two global pollutants, and MFA, a chemical lethal to humans at low doses. At temperatures that DuPont scientists claim are reached on stovetop drip pans (538°C/1000°F), their non-stick coatings break down to a chemical warfare agent known as PFIB, and a chemical analog of the WWII nerve gas phosgene. For the past fifty years DuPont has claimed that their Teflon coatings do not emit hazardous chemicals through normal use. In a recent press release, DuPont wrote that "significant decomposition of the coating will occur only when temperatures exceed about 348°C/660°F. These temperatures alone are well above the normal cooking range." These new tests show that cookware exceeds these temperatures and turns toxic through the common act of preheating a pan, on a burner set on high.
Tips on Safer Cookware:
After nearly five decades of extensive consumer and industrial use, some of the chemicals behind the popular brand names have been linked to cancers and even deaths in laboratory animals. When heated, cookware coated with Teflon and other non-stick surfaces emits fumes that can kill birds and potentially sicken people. You can avoid exposures to the fumes from Teflon and other non-stick cookware by phasing out your home use of these products. If you can afford to replace your non-stick cookware now, do so.
1) Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a terrific alternative to a non-stick cooking surface. Most chefs agree that stainless steel browns foods better than non-stick surfaces.
2) Gastrolux Cookware
It is the only range of non-stick cookware we have found that is tested not to produce toxic emissions, and has a non-stick surface that really works well. Click here to check out our range of Gastrolux cookware.
3) Cast iron
Cast iron remains a great alternative to non-stick cooking surfaces. Cast iron can be pre-heated to temperatures that will brown meat and will withstand oven temperatures well above what is considered safe for non-stick pans.
For a printable PDF file outlining cooking temperatures in telfon pans and the corresponding chemical release from EWG.
For more information on non stick cookware see this article from the Natural News team - Non-Stick Cookware Chemicals Cause 150 Percent Increase in Infertility
Scientists are now focusing on two members of this chemical family for potential toxicity: perfluorooctanoic acid, or PFOA for short, and perfluorooctanyl sulfonate, (PFOS). The chemicals have been used to make some of the world's most famous brand names, including Teflon and Scotchgard. They can be found in such items as non stick cookware, water or stain resistant clothing and carpets, some fast-food wrappers (which resist grease), pizza boxes, microwave popcorn containers, nail polishes and shaving cream.
DuPont Co. said its Teflon frying pans and other kitchenware are safe if used properly (at temperatures they are intended to be used). However, in two to five minutes on a conventional stovetop, cookware coated with Teflon and other non-stick surfaces can exceed temperatures at which the coating breaks apart and emits toxic particles and gases. These toxins are linked to pet bird deaths and an unknown number of human illnesses each year, according to tests commissioned by Environmental Working Group (EWG). DuPont studies show that the Teflon off-gases toxic particulates at 230°C/446°F. At 360°C/680°F Teflon pans release at least six toxic gases, including two carcinogens, two global pollutants, and MFA, a chemical lethal to humans at low doses. At temperatures that DuPont scientists claim are reached on stovetop drip pans (538°C/1000°F), their non-stick coatings break down to a chemical warfare agent known as PFIB, and a chemical analog of the WWII nerve gas phosgene. For the past fifty years DuPont has claimed that their Teflon coatings do not emit hazardous chemicals through normal use. In a recent press release, DuPont wrote that "significant decomposition of the coating will occur only when temperatures exceed about 348°C/660°F. These temperatures alone are well above the normal cooking range." These new tests show that cookware exceeds these temperatures and turns toxic through the common act of preheating a pan, on a burner set on high.
Tips on Safer Cookware:
After nearly five decades of extensive consumer and industrial use, some of the chemicals behind the popular brand names have been linked to cancers and even deaths in laboratory animals. When heated, cookware coated with Teflon and other non-stick surfaces emits fumes that can kill birds and potentially sicken people. You can avoid exposures to the fumes from Teflon and other non-stick cookware by phasing out your home use of these products. If you can afford to replace your non-stick cookware now, do so.
1) Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a terrific alternative to a non-stick cooking surface. Most chefs agree that stainless steel browns foods better than non-stick surfaces.
2) Gastrolux Cookware
It is the only range of non-stick cookware we have found that is tested not to produce toxic emissions, and has a non-stick surface that really works well. Click here to check out our range of Gastrolux cookware.
3) Cast iron
Cast iron remains a great alternative to non-stick cooking surfaces. Cast iron can be pre-heated to temperatures that will brown meat and will withstand oven temperatures well above what is considered safe for non-stick pans.
For a printable PDF file outlining cooking temperatures in telfon pans and the corresponding chemical release from EWG.
For more information on non stick cookware see this article from the Natural News team - Non-Stick Cookware Chemicals Cause 150 Percent Increase in Infertility
Aug 10, 2009
Which Ingredients Should I Be Concerned About?
There are many toxic ingredients used in a large number of common products that have been found to be unsafe. Here are some of the most common ones that should be avoided at all costs.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): one of the most commonly used foaming agents found in shampoos, body washes, bubble bath, toothpaste and cosmetic cleansers. Also used in car washes, garage floor cleaner and engine degreasers.
o Side effects may cause improper eye development in children and is a skin irritant.
o SLS can damage the immune system causing separation of skin layers and severe irritation of the skin. On the scalp, long term exposure to SLS can cause hair loss due to corrosion of hair follicles.
Propylene Glycol: petrochemical solvent used as a humectant. A humectant is a substance that helps retain moisture content. It prevents things from drying out. Used in anti-freeze, brake and hydraulic fluid and pet food. Also in many cosmetics and personal care items.
o Readily absorbed in the skin and scalp. No value to the skin, this ingredient is included ensuring the cream or lotion glides on skin easily.
o Propylene Glycol accumulates in the heart, liver and kidneys and weakens the immune system.
o It inhibits skin cell growth in human tests and can damage cell membranes causing rashes, dry skin and surface damage.
Alcohol: High alcohol content particularly in mouthwashes, should be avoided. A 1991 survey of people with mouth, tongue or throat cancers suggests that the use of high-alcohol (more than 25%) mouthwash contributes to increased risk of these tumours.
Fluoride: found in toothpaste and dental care products. It is poison to humans when ingested over long periods as it accumulates in our body tissues. “Fluoride is a known carcinogen and teratogen, decreases fertility in women and is not approved by the FDA in the United States. Fluoride has been removed from various animal feed because it was causing birth defects in offspring. The growing scientific consensus is that fluoride provides no benefit to teeth but does cause damage to the bones and organs in the body.” P. Dingle. Cosmetics and Personal Care, Dangerous Beauty. 1999 Pp 17.
TALC: Is associated with an increase in ovarian cancer and respiratory illness. Talc should never be used on babies both because of its carcinogenetic and acute respiratory distress it can cause from inhalation.
Formaldehyde: The chemical name is Formalin and this is often printed on labels. Used mainly as a preservative in shampoos, baby washes, mascara, creams, bubble baths, anti dandruff shampoos and some deodorants. A common ingredient in fabric softeners and is used in glue preparations for carpets, panel boards and melamine. It is known to cause eye, nose and throat irritation, coughing, asthma attacks, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes, nose bleeds, headaches and dizziness. Be sure to open doors and windows for airflow and avoid products containing this toxic ingredient.
Diethanolamine (DEA) Triethenolamine (TEA) Monoethanolamine (MEA) Are readily absorbed through the skin and accumulate in organs. DEA, TEA & MEA are skin and eye irritants. When found in products containing nitrates they can chemically convert to form nitrosamines which are potentially carcinogenic.
Toluene: A very common solvent found in nail enamels, spray cans, hair spray, hair gel perfumes and fragrances. It triggers asthma attacks and can cause asthma in previously healthy people. Is also a neurotoxin (adverse nervous system effects). Can cause liver damage and be an endocrine disrupter.
Aluminium: Found in antiperspirants. Links to Alzheimer’s disease continue to be explored and debated. It has been identified as a neurotoxin which can actively interfere with many chemical reactions in the brain.
PEG Laureth (ethoxylated) may contain dioxane which is potentially cancer causing, estrogen mimic, and endocrine disrupter.
Check your bathroom with this list now! If any of your products contain these ingredients it is your responsibility to learn more.
References and recommended reading:
Cosmetic and Personal Care, Dangerous Beauty: Peter Dingle & Toni Brown, The Chemical Maze: Bill Stratham, What’s in your cosmetics: Aubrey Hampton, Organica Press
Public speaker, author and ambassador for the next generation, Keeta Gibson publishes the popular e-newsletter from Non Toxic Life, your online eco-store for pure, natural everyday products and earthwise goods. Get your FREE tips on health and wellbeing and everything environmentally friendly now at www.NonToxicLife.com.au
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): one of the most commonly used foaming agents found in shampoos, body washes, bubble bath, toothpaste and cosmetic cleansers. Also used in car washes, garage floor cleaner and engine degreasers.
o Side effects may cause improper eye development in children and is a skin irritant.
o SLS can damage the immune system causing separation of skin layers and severe irritation of the skin. On the scalp, long term exposure to SLS can cause hair loss due to corrosion of hair follicles.
Propylene Glycol: petrochemical solvent used as a humectant. A humectant is a substance that helps retain moisture content. It prevents things from drying out. Used in anti-freeze, brake and hydraulic fluid and pet food. Also in many cosmetics and personal care items.
o Readily absorbed in the skin and scalp. No value to the skin, this ingredient is included ensuring the cream or lotion glides on skin easily.
o Propylene Glycol accumulates in the heart, liver and kidneys and weakens the immune system.
o It inhibits skin cell growth in human tests and can damage cell membranes causing rashes, dry skin and surface damage.
Alcohol: High alcohol content particularly in mouthwashes, should be avoided. A 1991 survey of people with mouth, tongue or throat cancers suggests that the use of high-alcohol (more than 25%) mouthwash contributes to increased risk of these tumours.
Fluoride: found in toothpaste and dental care products. It is poison to humans when ingested over long periods as it accumulates in our body tissues. “Fluoride is a known carcinogen and teratogen, decreases fertility in women and is not approved by the FDA in the United States. Fluoride has been removed from various animal feed because it was causing birth defects in offspring. The growing scientific consensus is that fluoride provides no benefit to teeth but does cause damage to the bones and organs in the body.” P. Dingle. Cosmetics and Personal Care, Dangerous Beauty. 1999 Pp 17.
TALC: Is associated with an increase in ovarian cancer and respiratory illness. Talc should never be used on babies both because of its carcinogenetic and acute respiratory distress it can cause from inhalation.
Formaldehyde: The chemical name is Formalin and this is often printed on labels. Used mainly as a preservative in shampoos, baby washes, mascara, creams, bubble baths, anti dandruff shampoos and some deodorants. A common ingredient in fabric softeners and is used in glue preparations for carpets, panel boards and melamine. It is known to cause eye, nose and throat irritation, coughing, asthma attacks, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes, nose bleeds, headaches and dizziness. Be sure to open doors and windows for airflow and avoid products containing this toxic ingredient.
Diethanolamine (DEA) Triethenolamine (TEA) Monoethanolamine (MEA) Are readily absorbed through the skin and accumulate in organs. DEA, TEA & MEA are skin and eye irritants. When found in products containing nitrates they can chemically convert to form nitrosamines which are potentially carcinogenic.
Toluene: A very common solvent found in nail enamels, spray cans, hair spray, hair gel perfumes and fragrances. It triggers asthma attacks and can cause asthma in previously healthy people. Is also a neurotoxin (adverse nervous system effects). Can cause liver damage and be an endocrine disrupter.
Aluminium: Found in antiperspirants. Links to Alzheimer’s disease continue to be explored and debated. It has been identified as a neurotoxin which can actively interfere with many chemical reactions in the brain.
PEG Laureth (ethoxylated) may contain dioxane which is potentially cancer causing, estrogen mimic, and endocrine disrupter.
Check your bathroom with this list now! If any of your products contain these ingredients it is your responsibility to learn more.
References and recommended reading:
Cosmetic and Personal Care, Dangerous Beauty: Peter Dingle & Toni Brown, The Chemical Maze: Bill Stratham, What’s in your cosmetics: Aubrey Hampton, Organica Press
Public speaker, author and ambassador for the next generation, Keeta Gibson publishes the popular e-newsletter from Non Toxic Life, your online eco-store for pure, natural everyday products and earthwise goods. Get your FREE tips on health and wellbeing and everything environmentally friendly now at www.NonToxicLife.com.au
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