10 Hidden Dangers in Your Home

 

Hazards at Home

You may not realize it, but there are dangers in your home that will eventually cause major problems in your lives and that are already ruining the lives of countless people around the globe. What might seem harmless is harmful and wreaking havoc. Maybe you have cancer or an autoimmune disease already, and so, you understand.

No matter if it’s something as seemingly harmless as the water you drink or household products you’ve been using for years, there are several dangers in your household that can cause quite a bit of damage–especially to your health.

 

The following describes 10 hidden dangers in your home that can cause more problems in your life than you may realize.

10 Dangers at Home

(Avoid these…dangers in your home:)

1. Tap Water

Water is essential for life and the majority of our bodies are made of water. You’re always being told to drink enough water, but even if you do the amount of toxins in your drinking water may be damaging your health. Not only can high amounts of fluoride and chlorine be present in drinking water, but small amounts of arsenic can sometimes be found as well. Arsenic is a cancer causing poison that sometimes gets into tap water.

If you don’t have an alternative to drinking tap water make sure to use a quality filter.

2. Toxic Cleaners

Most of us believe that a clean house is a healthy house, but the amount of toxins in many cleaners can be dangerous to our health. Laundry detergents, household cleaners, and bleach can all be toxic. It’s best to avoid cleaners with ingredients such as sodium bisulfate, phenol, lye, isopropanol, ammonia, and hydrochloric acid. Instead try distilled white vinegar for your cleaning needs. White vinegar prevents the growth of bacteria and won’t stain like apple cider vinegar.

3. Electromagnetic Waves

Electromagnetic waves are emitted from several types of everyday devices you likely use in your home including phones, computers, and even Wi-Fi. Everything from heart problems and cancer to allergies and insomnia has been linked to electromagnetic waves. This type of radiation can easily penetrate the body. To reduce your exposure to electromagnetic waves sleep in a room without any electronic devices. This means not sleeping with your cell phone in your bed.

4. Dryer Sheets and Fabric Softeners

Many of us love how soft our clothes feel after coming out of the dryer, especially when dryer sheets have been used. But these sheets can leave behind a layer of toxic chemicals. Benzyl, camphor, and even chloroform are ingredients that have been found in dryer sheets. Benzyl alcohol can cause nausea and dizziness. Camphor is a central nervous system stimulant and on the EPA’s hazardous waste list. Chloroform is a carcinogenic. These chemicals are then inhaled and can even be absorbed through the skin. A better alternative is to line dry or add baking soda to the rinse cycle for softness.

5. Many Packaged Foods

Even if you stay away from junk food, a lot of relatively healthy foods can contain high amounts of fructose corn syrup, food dyes, and artificial sweeteners. It’s been estimated that there are over 3,000 food additives that are added to many of the foods we eat. A few of these additives include added preservatives and chemicals to enhance the flavor and color of the food. For overall good nutrition and health you should eat organic whole foods.

6. Vegetable Oils

Vegetable oil may sound like it’s healthy but it is actually a processed oil that doesn’t contain any vegetables. It does contain too much omega 6 fatty acids that can lead to oxidation in the body which can cause disease. These oils are also high in trans fats and can contribute to inflammation in the body. It’s recommended to use olive oil or coconut oil instead.

7. Personal Care Products

While you don’t ingest personal care products such as soap and shampoo, these items can be absorbed into your skin. The list of chemicals found in many personal care products reads like an extensive science experiment. A few of these chemicals include triclosan, phthalates, parabens, sulfates, and propylene. Some of these chemicals have been detected in plasma, urine, and breast milk. It’s better to choose organic, mineral based personal products.

8. Bright Light Bulbs at Night

Bright bulbs and what is known as blue light can interfere with the production of melatonin. This in turn can lead to sleep deprivation and other health concerns. You should avoid artificial light as much as possible, especially the few hours before going to bed. It is also recommended to wear orange glasses if you’ll be around bright lights, especially what comes from devices.

 

9. Plastic Cookware and Containers

Plastics contain several types of chemicals such as Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and Bisphenol A (BPA). These chemicals can leach into your food and cause a variety of health issues including poor brain health, heart problems, and difficulties with the endocrine system. It’s especially important not to microwave with plastic containers. The high heat can increase the release of chemicals into the food. It’s recommended to switch to glass for heating and serving food.

10. Air Fresheners and Perfumes

Air fresheners and perfumes may keep your home smelling fresh, but the ingredients are not always good for your health. Many of these fresheners contain harmful chemicals. A few of these dangerous chemicals include benzene, toluene, formaldehyde, and phthalates. These synthetic fragrances can cause headaches, change blood pressure, and even affect mood. It’s better to use essential oils for keeping a home smelling fresh and clean.