What is as Dangerous as 20 Cigarettes a Day?

Would you smoke 20 cigarettes a day?

Me neither!  

Do you clean with traditional "grocery store" cleaning products? 

I used to.

Just recently, a European lung study revealed that cleaning with products that contain bleach, ammonia, and quats is as bad for our lungs as smoking up to 20 cigarettes a day. 

20 Cigarettes a day!   ----> Twen-ty-cig-a-rettes-a-day!

Thank goodness for Melaleuca's EcoSense Cleaning line!  I am so grateful for the wonderful improvements in health and safety it provides!

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Okay, okay, this is all great information. And here is the link to learn more about the study.  But maybe you have the same questions I did.

What are quotes   

Quats are chemicals that contain a quaternary ammonium compound (QAC) in their chemical makeup. They're used in a wide variety of products, including hair conditioners, moisturizers, body washes, bubble bath, liquid hand soap, shaving cream, styling gel/cream, styling mousse, makeup, antiperspirant/deodorant, baby wipes, sunscreens, acne treatments, hairspray, laundry softeners and anti-static agents.

Are quats harmful?  The Association of Occupational and Environmental Clinics classifies quats as “asthmagens,” which means they can trigger asthma attacks and cause new cases in those who are asthma-free. With more and more kids every day affected by asthma, it makes sense to help reduce exposure to this group of chemicals—especially for children.

Quats can also cause skin irritation, and with extended use in hair care products, may encourage hair to become dry and brittle. Those with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) should make a point of avoiding these ingredients, because of their potential effect on the airways. When using products like bubble bath, the effects can be enhanced, as the warm water increases inhalation of the vapors. 

What are some examples of quotes?     

Quaternium-15 is thought to be the worst quat because it releases formaldehyde, which is a known carcinogen and can also cause allergic reactions.

Another quat called benzalkonium chloride has been found to disrupt natural hormone function, and has been linked with developmental and reproductive toxicity. This quat has also been found to be toxic to aquatic life when washed downstream.

A report by the Scientific Committee on Consumer safety, an organization in the EU, noted that based on skin reactions and toxicity, one particular quat named “behentrimonium chloride” should not exceed 3 percent in a rinse-off product, and should measure no more than 0.5 percent in a leave-on product.

How can I avoid these harmful chemicals?   

The easiest way to avoid harmful chemicals is to simply and completely change stores. If I need it and Melaleuca makes it, then I buy it from Melaleuca. If you do not shop exclusively from Melaleuca, keep exploring the many aisles and products. I know you will find some great items you did not even know Melaleuca had!

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