Become product aware

The EPA states that indoor air is anywhere from 2-70 times more toxic than outdoors. The reason being: we lock up our homes and the air stays inside. Chemicals are released into the air by spraying, squirting, foaming and simply running the water. Remember science class and how steam is simply water particles floating in the air? A chemical also releases tiny particles into the air; hence being able to smell it. Not only does breathing the chemical allow it to go into your lungs but you skin has a 40% absorption rate allowing it to enter your system as well.

The FDA says it does not have the man power or the authority to keep up with all the products. This all can only make you wonder what is going into our products and why they aren’t being tested. Did you know they recently released a statement saying they can only test about 1% of what is on our shelves? Since we spend about 80% of our time indoors it might be a good thing to pay attention to what we use.

Here are just a few side effects associated with everyday products. Many of you may already experience them. These are quoted from the Dept of Interiors.

• "Headaches: Headaches can result from a number of exposures to cleaning chemicals, including inhalation
• Respiratory ailments: Chemicals in cleaning products and the vapors they emit can cause respiratory ailments such as allergies, asthma, reduced lung capacity, and injury to internal organs when absorbed by the bloodstream
• Endocrine disruption: A variety of chemicals in cleaning products are endocrine disruptors-external agents that interfere with or mimic in some way natural hormones in the body. Endocrine disruption might result in cancer, harm to male and female reproductive systems, thyroid damage, or other adverse consequences
• Breathing or inhalation: Some gases and airborne particles, created by the evaporation of cleaning products and the disturbance of small bits of solid material during and after cleaning, can seriously harm humans.
• Skin, dermal barrier: Accidental spills and splashes and improper use of cleaning products can result in skin irritation or more serious internal injury. Dermatitis (inflammation of the skin), burns, sensitivity, and poisoning can occur when the skin is superficially irritated by harmful chemicals. Certain chemicals can also penetrate the skin, enter the bloodstream, and damage internal organs".

It now boils down to empowering yourself as a consumer and becoming wise about your purchases. Know before you use! Simply make a change for your health, your children’s sake, and your pets. Finally if not for all those reasons, than your environment because most of those products are being washed out into a local water supply.

References: http://www.doi.gov/greening/sustain/trad.html; http://www.ewg.org/; www.epa.gov/iaq

The author writes about Living Green. If you would like more information check out the healthy home tour found on the website at www.greeninfluences.com