September 16th, 2009

Health Focus: Most Common Environmental Toxins

sludge

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

Health Focus