Your house: The land of toxins?

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Published Date 11/29/2024

When Realtor.com’s Marianne Garvey researched the toxic elements in a home that can cause serious illnesses, she may not have been prepared for the results. It’s not just one or two things.

She cites Dr. Yvonne Burkart, a former senior toxicologist in the flavor and fragrance industry, who says she has “spent more than half her life” studying the subject and the impact that toxic everyday products can have on fertility, reproduction, and cancer risk. She reveals that “almost everything” in your home—from plastics to perfume—could well be harming your health.

According to Burkart, plastics are the root cause of many issues. The chemicals that are used to create these materials tend to break up over time, leading to microplastic and nanoplastic release, including plastic containers that are used to store food and nonstick pans we cook with.

According to Burkart, common household toxins and their risks include nonstick pans with Teflon coating, plastic spatulas that can break down into microplastics that end up in food, microwaving plastic containers, and even seemingly safe items like disposable coffee cups present risks, as their plastic lining and lids can release microplastics into hot beverages.

Beyond the kitchen, scented candles, particularly those made with paraffin wax, can release carcinogens like benzene, toluene, and formaldehyde, along with dangerous "ultrafine particles." These particles can travel deep into the lungs, enter the bloodstream, and cause inflammation and oxidative stress, which Burkart identifies as contributors to many chronic diseases.

Personal care products also pose concerns. According to Burkart, approximately 90% of products from major retailers contain concerning chemicals. These can disrupt the endocrine system, which regulates crucial functions like sleep, digestion, and hormone production. Fragrances are particularly problematic, with Burkart calling them "the most pervasive sources of toxins in our homes" and "almost like the new secondhand smoke."

Her recommendations?

Replace nonstick pans with stainless steel cookware
Use metal or glass coffee cups instead of plastic-lined paper cups
Choose products from health food stores, which typically contain fewer harmful chemicals
Use wool dryer balls instead of dryer sheets, which coat clothes with waxy substances
Be cautious with fragranced products, including perfumes and scented laundry items

Burkart notes that many manufacturers aren't required to disclose harmful ingredients, considering them trade secrets. She particularly warns about phthalates, which she describes as "the most potent allergens known to man" by helping fragrances stick to surfaces like skin.

From her personal experience, Burkart reports significant improvements in energy, fitness, mental clarity, and focus after removing these toxic products from her daily routine, starting with her makeup collection and fragranced products.

Realtor,TBWS

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