Toxic chemicals that you should banish from your home before they mess up your hormones

If you’re like most people, there are so many different chemicals in your home. Cookware, cleaning products, shower curtains, furniture, carpet and paint are just a few of the items in your home that may contain toxic substances. But while “chemical” has become somewhat of a dirty word, not all chemicals are “bad.” There are natural chemicals found in fruits and veggies, for example, in very small amounts. It’s more so the amount you are exposed to that you need to be cautious of -- especially if they are “endocrine disruptors.”

Be proactive about carbon monoxide poisoning at home!

Each year, at least 430 people in the U.S. die due to accidental carbon monoxide poisoning, and around 50,000 people visit the emergency department because of it, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports. However, carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable! Being proactive about carbon monoxide (CO) could save your life.

The dirty secret of antibacterial soaps

For years, scientific studies have been sounding the alarm that antibacterial soaps may do more harm than good. Now, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is putting its foot down, issuing a ban against 19 ingredients, including the most common ones -- triclosan and triclocarban. Makers of these soaps have one year to remove the banned ingredients; luckily, some have already begun phasing them out. The reason? These ingredients may be putting your health at risk, and quite frankly, they’re no better than regular ol’ soap and water!

Are cancer-causing chemicals lurking in your toothpaste and soaps?

A chemical that has been linked to cancer cell growth is being used by millions of Americans in toothpaste every day. It’s called triclosan, and it is an FDA-approved antibacterial ingredient. Triclosan is a broad-spectrum antibacterial antifungal agent that is added to many cosmetics and personal care products, including some toothpastes, soaps and cosmetics. But should you be worried?

Protect yourself against brain toxins

Almost everyone has heard the phrase “mad as a hatter,” but most people don’t know that it originated in 18th century England when hatters exposed to mercury salts literally went “mad” from the toxicity. Three centuries later, toxins in our homes and environment continue to be a threat to healthy brain function.

Naturally prevent, decrease spring allergies

For people who suffer from allergies, spring means bulk purchases of Kleenex and sniffling trips to the medicine cabinet. But while nasal steroids and decongestants might make you feel good temporarily, they have side effects as well. And while allergies might seem inevitable, a healthy dose of prevention may well keep you away from your usual medicines.