What’s causing diabetes and thyroid issues?

The true cause of type 1 diabetes is yet to be determined, and it’s frightening that so many women have thyroid disease. If you worry that dangerous chemicals may be causing cancer and disease, you have every reason to be concerned. Your thyroid and pancreas are part of the endocrine system so if endocrine disruptors are in the foods we eat and products we use, that’s scary stuff.

“Phthalates are chemicals linked to thyroid irregularities…and are found in artificial fragrances used in personal-care products such as shampoos and body lotions, as well as in air fresheners, scented candles, and nail polish.” Manufacturers add fragrances to make their products to smell good. I admit that I’m not going to buy something that’s stinky. Would you buy a yummy smelling product over a non-scented item if there was a chance that it would cause you weight-gain and hurt your health? I’m betting you wouldn’t and manufactures need to take notice. “In a 2007 study, the University of Rochester found that phthalate by-products in the urine were associated with bigger waistlines and increased insulin resistance in men.” (1) Yikes! Time to toss out the perfume, cologne and other items with synthetic fragrances.

I buy products that are fragrance free or are made with essential oils. Fragrances just make me sneeze or itch anyway. Read labels. If a product contains phthalates, toss it out or refuse to buy it. If I want my home to smell good, I just peel an orange to release the orange oils into the air.

Source: 1. Prevention Magazine, January 2013 issue. Article titled: What’s making us fat.