How Everyday Products Impact Your Health
The Green Office, in collaboration with the Office of Student Life, hosted a presentation on environmental medicine on December 2, 2024. Facilitated by McKenzie Steiner, FUS Coordinator of Health and Wellness, and organized by GO Scholar Sydney Lezy, the event shed light on the ways in which everyday environmental exposures—through personal care products and cookware—can impact long-term health. Lezy hoped that participants go away knowing that "something as simple as avoiding plastic cooking utensils isn’t just better for the environment by reducing plastic pollution—it also supports hormone health by preventing exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals."
Understanding Environmental Medicine
Environmental medicine is a growing field that examines how various environmental factors, including toxins, pollutants, and microbes, affect the human body. This holistic approach integrates elements of toxicology, public health, and industrial medicine to evaluate chronic exposure to harmful substances in daily life.
Hidden Dangers in Personal Care Products
The presentation highlighted the presence of hazardous chemicals in commonly used beauty and hygiene products. Some of the most concerning substances include:
- Formaldehyde – A known carcinogen found in cosmetics and hair products.
- Mercury – Can damage the kidneys and nervous system.
- Phthalates – Hormone disruptors linked to reproductive health issues.
- PFAs (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) – Associated with cancer and persistent in the environment.
- Heavy metals – Contaminants like arsenic, cadmium, lead, and nickel can be found in various cosmetics.
To reduce exposure, attendees were encouraged to read ingredient labels carefully and seek out trusted brands with safer formulations. The Environmental Working Group’s website (ewg.org) was recommended as a resource for checking product safety.
Concerns with Cookware and Food Containers
Beyond cosmetics, the discussion addressed the risks associated with cookware materials:
- PFAs (Teflon® and other non-stick coatings) – Sometimes referred to as "forever chemicals," these substances have been linked to serious health concerns.
- BPAs (Bisphenol A) – Found in canned food linings and plastic containers, BPAs can mimic estrogen and disrupt the endocrine system.
- Styrene (#6 plastics, Styrofoam) – Known to contribute to neurological and immune system issues.
- Aluminum – Excessive exposure has been associated with cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.
The best alternatives for cookware include stainless steel, cast iron, glass, wood, and ceramic materials, all of which are safer and more sustainable options.
Practical Steps for a Healthier Future
Steiner emphasized that while eliminating all environmental toxins is impossible, individuals can make informed choices to gradually reduce their exposure. Small steps—such as replacing old products, choosing items with transparent ingredient lists, and minimizing plastic use—can collectively lead to better health outcomes.
A Special Thank You to Dr. Bronner’s
As a fun addition to the event, Dr. Bronner’s generously sponsored the presentation by providing their well-known organic liquid soaps. These were given as gifts to attendees, reinforcing the importance of selecting safer, eco-friendly products.
The Green Office encourages the university community to stay informed and take proactive steps toward healthier, more sustainable living. Keep an eye out for future events that explore important health and environmental topics!