You don’t have to be a doctor to know that cheeseburgers and channel surfing can contribute to weight gain. But according to new research, your beauty products (like shampoo) could be contributing as well.
The research out of Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York, found that phthalates, which are ingredients in about 70 percent of shampoos, soaps and cosmetics, should be avoided when possible. Why? Phthalates could be endocrine disruptors, which mimic the effects of hormones and affect the performance of the glands that produce them.
This is not the first study that shows chemicals’ effect on the system that naturally controls body weight. And phthalates aren’t the only chemical to be cautious of. Bisphenol-A, usually present in plastic containers, is another substance to watch out for. Parabens (methlyparaben, propylparaben, etc) are preservatives found in most skin care, lotions, soaps, shampoos, toothpaste and many other products are powerful estrogenic chemicals and not only can disrupt endocrine levels, but are suspected of causing early puberty in young girls and have been find highly concentrated in breast cancer tissue.
However, while endocrine disruptors may be playing a significant role in obesity, at this point, more research is necessary to fully determine the effect of chemicals on body weight. In the meantime, the doctors behind the study recommend choosing organic and fragrance-free products.
In our salon, Bella Pelle Laser Hair Removal, we use and sell only paraben and formaldehyde free skin and body care products in BPA free packaging. Ask us about the Usana Sense product line.