With all the emphasis on the quality of our outdoor air, land, and water over the past few decades, it seems that the safety of the environment inside our homes — where we typically spend a majority of our time — was somewhat overlooked. Many studies have proven that the quality of the air in our homes is, in general, much worse than average outdoor air. Scientists have labeled this phenomenon “sick building syndrome,” and it is largely the result of two major factors. First, most modern homes are overflowing with toxic chemicals from construction materials, cleaning supplies, and the like. Secondly, with the emphasis on energy conservation, homes are now much more air-tight than in the past, and this lack of ventilation only compounds the problems.

Common Toxins That May Be In Or Around Your Home

• First, you need to be aware that indoor air pollution is a serious problem. Since World War II, over 80,000 new chemicals have been invented and used here in America, many of which are ingredients in multiple consumer products that have found their way into our homes. Are these substances safe? Some have shown themselves to be very dangerous, but the truth is that only about 5% have ever been tested as in regard to their effects on human health.
• Under the kitchen and bathroom sinks lurk some of the worst chemical offenders, substances such as bleach, ammonia, and other common cleaners. These create indoor air that is toxic to breath, especially to infants and children, and can irritate and burn the skin, eyes, and other organs. In industry, these chemicals are restricted under the Federal Hazardous Substance act, but they are often silently included in products designed for the home. Mixing bleach and ammonia can produce a deadly form of “mustard gas,” an accident that has occurred numerous times with tragic results.
• Construction materials are also a major contributor to poor indoor environments. This is true in both older homes that have been remodeled, and for new construction. Some items to watch out for are carpeting, processed wood products such as plywood or paneling, paints and stains, chemical-laden adhesives, and insulation products (especially foam). Many of these contain known carcinogens such as formaldehyde or benzene. Often these chemicals found in combination can even worsen the problem.
• Remodeling can also expose residents to dust containing lead from old paint, mold spores and other toxins that are stirred up and dispersed in the process. Be sure to wear an appropriate mask if doing the work yourself, and protect the rest of your home from contamination by sealing off the area.
• Some types of granite countertops are often overlooked as sources of toxins. They may emit radiation including radon gas, a major source of lung cancers.
• Furniture, including bedding, can also pose significant risks. We spend about a third of our lives in bed, and unfortunately many mattresses are laden with toxic fire-resistant chemicals called PBDEs that have been banned in Europe due to their links to cancer and immune system dysfunction. This can also be true for bed covers and pillows. Other furniture made of pressed wood can be a source of formaldehyde and other chemicals.
• House dust is also a villain. One of its major components are tiny creatures called dust mites (and their dung) that can cause respiratory infections and allergic reactions.
• Water from municipal systems typically contains either fluoride or chlorine, both of which are dangerous toxins, especially in a gaseous state (like from a shower head).
• Lawn and garden applications are some of the worst sources of pollution. Many commercial products contain ingredients that are known carcinogens and neurotoxins. In fact, some insecticides and pesticides are chemical relatives of lethal substances such as Sarin (used in the 1995 Tokyo Subway attack) and Agent Orange, a defoliant used in the Vietnam War.

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In a move that some consider a perk for chemical companies, the outgoing Bush administration has approved increased drinking water levels of a toxin used in the manufacture of certain non-stick coatings. As the article below points out, many scientists and consumer advocates are concerned that such levels of PFOA may pose both short-term and long-term public health hazards.

Basically unregulated for many decades, the dangers of PFOA only came out during legal action against one of most flagrant polluters on the planet, the DuPont Corporation. Once again we have the financial interests of Big Business put ahead of the health and welfare of Americans. Considering how many chemicals have been invented and dumped into the environment over the last several generations, it is scary to think about the implications both for now and the future. There certainly must be many of these substances that are known hazards, but as of yet the facts remain hidden behind corporate veils of secrecy and deception. Undoubtedly, new evidence will also arise to indict other chemicals that are now considered “safe.”

What can we do to protect ourselves? Start with performing several liver/gallbladder cleanses in order to cleanse the liver an digestive tract of toxins and chemicals. Next, eat a diet rich in organic fruits and vegetables that supply the body with large amounts of naturally occurring phytonutrients to combat free radicals and disease. Lastly, make sure you drink the purest water available by using a high quality water purification system. If you live in an area that is prone to chemical pollution, you may also want to consider moving for the sake of your family’s health and wellness.

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