When we talk about health, we usually think of a balanced diet, exercise, and avoiding alcohol or tobacco. But there is a silent, omnipresent and invisible factor that we often overlook: exposure to toxic substances that surround us. These are already present practically everywhere, and direct contact with them has very harmful effects on people's health, which can even affect them before birth.
Where are these toxic elements found?
Although more and more scientific studies warn of the widespread contamination that currently exists in the world, many people still have not understood the risk that direct exposure to toxic substances poses to their health. It is well known that microplastics and harsh chemicals can now be found everywhere: in packaging, cosmetics, clothing, food, household dust, the air, and even the water we drink. This exposure not only affects adults but also —and particularly worryingly— babies from pregnancy.
Various researchers have already found microplastic particles in human organs, in umbilical cord blood, and in the placenta. According to studies, up to 40 industrial chemicals can be present in a baby's body even before birth.
How do these substances affect health?
The greatest risk of these substances is that they act as endocrine disruptors, meaning they can alter the body's hormonal balance. These are capable of mimicking or blocking our natural hormones. They are present in common items such as conventional cosmetics, plastic, pesticides, perfumes, and even cleaning products.
Furthermore, endocrine disruptors generate health consequences that can last a lifetime, and are related to problems and diseases such as the following:
- Fertility and reproductive problems.
- Certain types of cancer.
- Type 2 diabetes (even in children).
- Developmental problems.
- Neurological and behavioral disorders.
Can they affect pregnancy?
The answer is yes, and critically so. During gestation, the baby's body is in full development, and organs, systems, and neural connections continue to form. Significant exposure to these aggressive chemicals can alter that development, with health consequences that in many cases are lifelong.
Some studies indicate that children exposed to these substances in the womb may have a higher risk of behavioral disorders, hyperactivity, or depression in childhood and adolescence. Neuroscience has already made it clear on several occasions that if something harms brain development during pregnancy it cannot be reversed, and this is exactly the case with what happens when in contact with these toxic elements.
Daily exposure increases
As we have mentioned, these substances are increasingly found in more frequent places and consumer products. For example, a recent analysis revealed that a simple industrial sliced bread can contain up to 35 contaminants. An isotonic drink, more than 20 chemical ingredients. And that's not counting what is transferred from the packaging during storage. Even fresh foods can be contaminated if stored in boxes treated with industrial dyes or if grown in soil fertilized with treated urban waste.
Other everyday products, such as certain types of clothing or cosmetics, are also very harmful to health, since their constant use endangers both our health and that of our future generations.
What can we do to reduce contact with these substances?
Although they are becoming more frequent and it is harder to avoid their use, measures can be taken to reduce exposure to these contaminants. Some small actions can make a before and after in health. Here are some recommendations to avoid or reduce exposure to these harmful substances:
- Avoid cosmetic or hygiene products that contain toxic ingredients such as parabens, phthalates, or silicones.
- Choose glass or stainless steel containers when storing food and drinks.
- Prioritize fresh and organic foods, whenever possible. It is also recommended to wash fruits and vegetables carefully, even if they are organic.
- Never heat food in plastic containers, especially if using a microwave.
- Opt for organic cotton clothing or natural fibers. This is especially recommended for babies.
- Reduce the use of cleaning products and air fresheners with strong fragrances or synthetic chemicals as much as possible.
These tips are simple to apply and can make a big difference in how we interact with harmful components.
The next step: creating collective awareness
As highlighted by the Spanish Society of General Practitioners and Family Physicians at their last congress, this is an urgent public health issue. It is not enough to take care of ourselves individually: we need policies, regulations, and a change in mentality.
The health of the planet and our own are deeply connected. Every package we avoid, every ingredient we question, every sustainable alternative we choose is a step towards a cleaner, healthier, and fairer future for generations to come.
Everyone needs to be aware that their choices can not only harm them but also their future generations. Making conscious decisions can be the first step to making visible the existing alternatives to conventional products that cause so much damage to our bodies. The change towards greater respect and protection of our body begins with each of us.
