Everyday Household Toxins: Making Healthier Choices

Common Sources of EDCs 

1. Plastics & Packaging: Some plastics contain bisphenols (BPA, BPS), which can mimic oestrogen in the body. These compounds have been studied for their potential effects on metabolism and hormone balance.
   
   
2. Fragranced Products: Items like air fresheners, perfumes, and scented lotions may contain phthalates, which help fragrances last longer but can also interfere with hormone function .
   
   
3. Personal Care Products: Some cosmetics and shampoos contain parabens which can bind to oestrogen receptors on cells, mimicking the hormone's effects , though their estrogenic activity is significantly weaker than natural oestrogen parabens can interfere with enzymes responsible for regulating oestrogen metabolism.
   
   
4. Cleaning Products: Many household cleaners contain EDCs such as triclosan and triclocarban which can bind to oestrogen and androgen receptors, potentially affecting reproductive health and development.

Recent investigations have revealed the presence of various harmful toxins in menstrual products such as tampons, pads, liners and underwear raising concerns about their potential health impacts.

• 1. PFAS (“Forever Chemicals”): PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of synthetic chemicals known as "forever chemicals" due to their extreme persistence in the environment and human body. PFAS have been associated with several health risks . 
   
  
• 2. Toxic Metals: Arsenic, lead, cadmium, mercury, nickel, and others were found to be present in tampons from various brands. Heavy metals are associated with damage the liver, kidneys, brain, cardiovascular system, and endocrine system. They are also associated with infertility, cancer, and developmental harm.

Menstrual cups haven’t been linked to toxins, making those a good alternative for those concerned about using tampons, pads or liners. 

Common Sources: Cleaning sprays, synthetic candles, air fresheners, paint, and furniture.

Indoor air can contain small particles and chemicals released from household products.

• 1. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): are a group of chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature, contributing significantly to indoor air pollution. They are emitted from various household products and materials like paints, air fresheners, and cleaning products. Short-term effects: Eye, nose, and throat irritation; headaches; dizziness; nausea; and fatigue. Long-term effects: Damage to liver, kidney, and central nervous system; potential increased cancer risk.
  
  
• 2. Synthetic Fragrances: may contain phthalates and synthetic musks which can accumulate in the body over time and interfere with hormonal function.

Simple Swaps

• Open windows regularly to improve air circulation.
• Use natural cleaning alternatives like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils.
• Choose unscented or naturally scented candles made with beeswax, coconut or soy. 

methods.

Food is another way we encounter environmental substances. Certain cooking methods and food packaging choices can influence our exposure.

1. Pesticide Residues: Conventionally grown fruits and vegetables, especially those on the Dirty Dozen list carry pesticide residues, which can accumulate in the body over time.
2. Non-Stick Cookware: Older non-stick coatings may contain PFAs such as Teflon which can leach into food during cooking and accumulate in the body over time.
3. Charred and Blackened Foods: Cooking at very high temperatures (grilling, BBQing and frying) can create compounds called heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The National Cancer Institute explains that HCAs and PAHs are mutagenic compounds formed when muscle meat is cooked at high temperatures or over an open flame. Animal studies show these compounds can cause DNA changes linked to cancers of the colon, liver, prostate, lung, and other organs.

Simple Swaps

• Wash produce thoroughly and choose organic options when possible paying attention to the items on the Dirty Dozen list.
• Use cast iron, ceramic, or stainless steel cookware instead of older non-stick pans.
• Cook at lower temperatures when possible and avoid heavily charring food.

For those looking to support their health while avoiding unnecessary chemical fillers and binders, it’s important to look for high-quality supplements formulated without artificial additives. Choosing well-sourced, clean supplements can be an effective way to maintain optimal nutrient levels while reducing exposure to unnecessary synthetic ingredients.

Here are some of our favourite brands that align with a more conscious approach wellbeing:

We Are Wild – Deodorant that does not contain aluminium, parabens, or sulphates.

Faith in Nature – refillable personal care products free from parabens, triclosan, phthalates, SLS, SLES, and silicone.

Smol –laundry and cleaning products free of parabens, phthalates, triclosan, methylisothiazolinone, and isothiazolinones

The Clean Beauty Club –Skin care free of synthetic chemicals, parabens, phthalates

Neom – Paraffin free candles scented with essential oils.

You can also scan your products with the Yuka App to check how they rate for safety and health impact.

Understanding what’s in our household products, food, and air allows us to make informed choices without unnecessary worry. There’s no need to overhaul everything at once—small, gradual swaps can help reduce exposure to potentially harmful substances over time. Whether it’s switching to glass containers, opening windows more often, or opting for gentler cleaning products, every step towards a healthier home environment makes a difference.

By being mindful of what we bring into our homes and how we prepare our food, we can create a safer, healthier space for ourselves and our families—without fear, just knowledge and choice.