Chemical Toxins Trigger Hashimoto’s?

Chemical Toxins Trigger Hashimoto’s?

Have you ever considered that chemical toxins trigger hashimoto’s? Most people are astonished to learn just how toxic the standard American household can be. The range of chemicals we use can be harmful to the thyroid, brain, immune system, liver, hormonal system, and other important physiological systems. Toxic products can be found in an incredibly vast range of daily-use items. Especially when trying to manage Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism, it is important to take care with which items you choose: “going green” and opting for non-toxic house and body products is an important consideration.

Key to managing Hashimoto’s is simplifying the range of threats your body has to deal with, and minimizing these threats. Complex toxic loads are physically difficult to cope with, promote stress and inflammation, and exacerbate Hashimoto’s. Research indicates clear links between the presence of toxins and worsening of Hashimoto’s symptoms.

Just look at this list of effects from common household products on the human body:

Chemical Toxins Trigger Hashimoto’s – Detergents, air fresheners, soaps, shampoos, perfumes, skin creams etc –

Pthalates are one of the principle components that produce fragrance in these products. Pthalates have been observed to: damage organs, affect puberty in girls, reduce sperm counts, and increase the risk of cancer and lung issues. Unscented versions of these products or those derived from essential oils are a better, more natural option. Even better, making your own household cleaners is a cheap, easy and rewarding exercise.

Carpet cleaners, spot removers, dry cleaning solutions –

Perchloroethylene, or PERC, is a constituent of these products, and is toxic to the brain. PERC can also increase the risk of cancer. Non-toxic stain removers and dry-cleaning services are easy to come by, and a much safer option.

Antibacterial soaps and hand sanitizers –

Triclosan is one of the active ingredients in these products, and was first implemented as a pesticide. Exposure to this ingredient promotes the development of drug-resistant bacteria, may disrupt hormone regulation and is recognized as carcinogenic. Non-toxic soap and hand sanitizer is a must.

Chemical Toxins Trigger Hashimoto’s – Fabric softener liquids and sheets –

Quarternary ammonium compounds, or quats, are found in these products. Quats have been previously linked with respiratory disorders, and are reactive for individuals with chemical sensitivities. Quats are anti-bacterial agents and may also promote the development of drug-resistant bacteria. An alternative option for softening your clothes is via the use of essential oils, vinegar or wood dryer balls.

(If you are interested in removing that synthetic, toxic smell of fabric softener or other perfumes from your clothes, placing the item in a bag filled with activated charcoal will do the trick.)

We have only covered a bare minimum of the toxic chemicals found within everyday products commonly used by us and our children. And that is to not even touch on the range of artificial flavors, colors and preservatives in our food and drink. Beyond this, chemicals and pollutants in air and water all combine to produce a plethora of toxins for the human body.

These additive effects are a driving reason for why autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism run rampant in today’s society. In fact, more than 23.5 million people are affected by autoimmune diseases in the U.S. alone.

Over 85,000 synthetic chemicals exist in the environment today. Many of these remain foreign to us, and only a bare handful have been clinically tested for their effects. Unprecedented increases in the prevalence of autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism are linked with these toxins. This link extends as far as autism, which is increasingly recognized as a neurological autoimmunity.

Anyone with an increased chemical sensitivity is at risk of synthetic chemicals, which may trigger illnesses.

Humans have simply not evolved to deal with anywhere near as complex a toxin load as we face today, which begins to affect us as early as in the womb. Actively removing as many toxins as possible from your lifestyle is the best thing you can do for your Hashimoto’s and the health of your children.

Fortunately, there are clear-cut options for you to follow to mitigate the potential damage of toxins, especially when managing Hashimoto’s. Exercise, an individualized diet removing immune system triggers, hydrating regularly, spending time in nature and using anti-inflammatory compounds are all steps you can take.  Contact my office for more information regarding the current toxin issue and how to manage your Hashimoto’s with regards to this.

I you are interested in getting one-on-one support for your Hashimoto’s, Graves’ or hypothyroidism, you can learn more about our patient application process here, or contact our office at (828) 324-0800.

Have a wonderful day!