Of the many challenges facing our modern world today, perhaps none is greater than what is happening inside our bodies – especially when it comes to multiple chemical sensitivities. Research shows that chronic disease is on the rise—and unfortunately, it's an epidemic that can't be explained simply by the fact that people are generally living longer (and therefore staying long enough to develop age-related health problems ). For example, rates of asthma, autism, and other life-altering conditions in children—as well as adults—are rising, creating a significant public health crisis. Undoubtedly, what is driving this epidemic is multifactorial. However, everything more research suggests that multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a powerful—and largely overlooked—contributor to chronic disease. It's truly amazing how the chemicals that surround us in our daily lives can affect our health (and the health of our children).
The impact of multiple chemical sensitivities on your health, research will shock you
After analyzing the results of a survey of a nationally representative sample of over 1,000 Americans, a team of researchers from the University of Melbourne found that 1 in 4 Americans suffer from chemical sensitivity, and their health suffers as a result. Common adverse effects associated with multiple chemical sensitivities reported in the literature include migraine headaches, asthma, autism, and even lost workdays, productivity, and employment. The researchers published their results in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine. Importantly, they defined multiple chemical sensitivity, or MCS, as “a medical condition characterized by adverse health effects from exposure to common chemicals and pollutants, from products such as pesticides, new carpets and paints, renovation materials, diesel exhaust, cleaning products, perfumes , scented laundry products and air fresheners."
Do you see any of the above products in your home? What about your workplace or your children's schools? When we realize how ubiquitous these common pollutants and chemicals are, it's hard to believe that we no longer suffer. Another recent paper published in the journal Air Quality, Atmosphere & Health found that in an international survey of more than 4,000 people (including adults from the UK, US, Australia and Sweden), close to 20% reported MCS, and over 32% reported sensitivity to odors. Of the 4.5% sample who had autism or autism spectrum disorder, a staggering 60.6% and 75.8% of them had chemical sensitivity and/or smell sensitivity. A correlation was also observed between MCS and asthma and asthma-like conditions. Overall, research shows that the prevalence of chemical sensitivity has increased by more than 300% in America in the past decade alone, and at least 61 million people worldwide are believed to be currently affected.
Tips for protecting your family from exposure to environmental chemicals
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 60% of global deaths are caused by chronic diseases, and it is expected to increase in the coming years. This places a huge demand on our healthcare system – one that already places so much importance on conventional reactive treatments, including drugs and medications that tend to cause as many problems as they try to “fix”. It's time to take your health into your own hands and reduce your dependence on a broken system. After all, there is a good reason for it. Research shows that lifestyle factors affect as much as 60% (or more) of your overall health and quality of life! When it comes to protecting yourself and your family from chemical sensitivities, keep the following suggestions in mind:
Go organic. Choose chemical-free products, reduce the use of canned food and wash food as needed.
Avoid using plastic food containers and water bottles, especially those with #7 or #3 on the bottom – choose glass or stainless steel instead.
Choose natural household beauty products that do not contain unwanted chemicals and fragrances.
Get your home tested for radon and ensure your home has high-quality ventilation. While you're at it, grow some indoor plants to help purify your air!
Reduce your exposure to electromagnetic frequencies (EMF) by reducing the use of wireless devices and by wiring your devices.
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