Dust in the home can potentially cause hormonal imbalances due to the presence of substances known as endocrine disruptors. Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that interfere with the normal functioning of hormones in the body, potentially leading to adverse health effects.
There are various endocrine disruptors that may be present in household dust, including:
- Phthalates: These are chemicals used in plastics, personal care products, and other household items. They can interfere with the function of hormones like estrogen, testosterone, and thyroid hormones.
- Bisphenol A (BPA): This chemical is commonly found in plastic containers, water bottles, and other products. It can disrupt the function of estrogen and other hormones.
- Flame retardants: These are chemicals added to furniture, electronics, and other items to reduce the risk of fire. They can interfere with the function of thyroid hormones.
Studies have found that exposure to endocrine disruptors can lead to a variety of health effects, including reproductive problems, developmental delays, and increased risk of certain cancers. In addition, hormonal imbalances caused by endocrine disruptors may also contribute to other health conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
To reduce your exposure to endocrine disruptors in household dust, it is important to keep your home clean and free of dust. This can be done through regular cleaning, using a vacuum with a HEPA filter, and using non-toxic cleaning products. Additionally, choosing products that are free of endocrine disruptors and other harmful chemicals can help to protect your health.
Doolly Noted
When purchasing products such as furniture, carpets, rugs, stuffed animals, clothing, socks, sheets, blankets, towels, etc, opt for items that are made of cotton, not synthetic plastic. Synthetic plastic is basically everything that is not cotton, wool or silk. Polyester, nylon, rayon, spandex, acrylic, olefin: these are some types of synthetic plastics which can break down overtime and create toxic dust in your home in which you may be breathing in. Also, when you wash and dry your clothes, these fabrics can break down and get into the water supply (research: PFAS). One more thing, when you empty your dryer’s lint trap after drying synthetic articles of clothing or what have you, be sure not to breathe in the dust, as it may be potentially harmful to your health and lungs.
