ALS Toxins List

What to look for:

. These can range from heavy metals and industrial chemicals to biological contaminants like mold. 

• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): These are gases released from thousands of products.
  • Sources: Paints, varnishes, pressed wood products, cleaning supplies, cosmetics, moth repellents, and dry-cleaned clothing.
  • Health effects: Respiratory and eye irritation, headaches, and damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system with long-term exposure.
• Flame retardants: These chemicals are added to a wide range of consumer products to reduce flammability.
  • Sources: Furniture, textiles, mattresses, pillows, carpet padding, and electronics.
  • Health effects: Endocrine disruption, learning impairment, and memory issues.
• Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS): Often called "forever chemicals," PFAS are extremely persistent in the environment and human body.
  • Sources: Nonstick cookware (like Teflon), stain- and water-resistant fabrics, cosmetics, and food packaging.
  • Health effects: Kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid disease, and developmental issues.
• Phthalates: Used to make plastics more flexible and to help fragrances last longer.
  • Sources: Vinyl flooring, shower curtains, cosmetics, personal care products, detergents, and plastic food containers.
  • Health effects: Hormone disruption and potential links to infertility and cancer.
• Other household toxins:
  • Formaldehyde: Found in adhesives for wood products like particleboard.
  • Lead: Present in older paints (pre-1978) and old pipes.
  • Mold and mildew: Grow in damp, poorly ventilated areas.
  • Radon: A naturally occurring radioactive gas that seeps into buildings from the ground. 

• Pesticides: Chemical sprays used in agriculture can leave residues on produce. To reduce exposure, consider buying organic or consulting the Environmental Working Group's (EWG) "Dirty Dozen" list for produce with the most pesticide residue.
• Heavy metals: These can get into soil and water from industrial waste and pollution.
  • Sources: Water, seafood, and soil.
  • Examples: Lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium.
• Plastics and food packaging: Harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates from plastic food containers can leach into food and water, especially when heated.
• Water contaminants: Drinking water can be compromised by agricultural runoff and industrial chemicals, including lead, arsenic, and microplastics. 

• Phthalates: Often listed as "fragrance" and added to cosmetics, lotions, and soaps.
• Parabens: Used as preservatives in personal care products.
• Lead and mercury: Some make-up products contain traces of these heavy metals. 

• Outdoor air pollution:
  • Sources: Industrial activity, vehicle emissions, and the burning of fossil fuels.
  • Common pollutants: Particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide, and ozone.
• Indoor air pollution:
  • Sources: Building materials, furniture, secondhand smoke, and products that release VOCs.
  • Factors: Indoor air quality is often worse than outdoor air due to poor ventilation. 

What to do about it:

. 

• Increase ventilation. Open windows for at least 10 minutes daily to circulate fresh air and reduce the concentration of pollutants, especially when cooking or cleaning. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens that vent outdoors to remove moisture and contaminants.
• Filter the air. Use a portable air purifier with a HEPA filter to reduce airborne particles like dust, mold spores, and chemicals. In your central HVAC system, install a high-efficiency filter, such as one with a MERV-13 rating or higher, and change it regularly.
• Remove household dust. Dust can carry heavy metals, flame retardants, and other chemicals. Damp-dust and damp-mop hard surfaces with a microfiber cloth to effectively trap particles. For carpets, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter.
• Avoid synthetic fragrances. Skip aerosol and plug-in air fresheners, which can release phthalates and other harmful chemicals. Instead, use essential oils in a diffuser or simply open a window. 

• Filter your water. Use a high-quality filter pitcher or faucet attachment to remove contaminants like lead and PFAS from your drinking water. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has a tap water database where you can check your local water quality.
• Reduce plastics. Transfer food from plastic packaging to glass, ceramic, or stainless-steel containers for storage. Avoid heating food in plastic, as this can cause chemicals like BPA and phthalates to leach into your meals.
• Be smart about produce. The EWG publishes a "Dirty Dozen" list of produce with the highest pesticide residues. Consider buying organic versions of these items, and thoroughly wash all produce before eating.
• Choose safe cookware. Replace nonstick pots and pans with cast iron, stainless steel, or ceramic alternatives. The nonstick coating on many traditional products is made with harmful PFAS chemicals.
• Limit canned goods. Many food cans are lined with a resin that contains BPA, an endocrine disruptor. 

• Use non-toxic cleaners. Look for cleaners labeled as "fragrance-free" or certified by programs like Safer Choice and Green Seal. You can also make your own effective and low-cost cleaners using simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice.
• Choose fragrance-free personal care products. Phthalates are a common component in "fragrance" in cosmetics and other personal care items. Use fragrance-free alternatives to reduce this exposure.
• Leave your shoes at the door. This simple habit prevents you from tracking in pesticides, lead dust, and other contaminants from outside. 

• Prevent mold. Control moisture by using dehumidifiers, running exhaust fans, and fixing leaks promptly. If mold is present, clean it immediately. For extensive mold issues (more than 3x3 feet), consider hiring a professional.
• Address lead paint. If your home was built before 1978, it may contain lead-based paint.
  • Keep painted surfaces in good condition, and wet-clean regularly to control dust.
  • For major renovations, hire a lead-safe certified contractor.
• Protect against radon. Radon is an odorless, colorless, radioactive gas that can enter your home through cracks in the foundation. The EPA recommends testing your home for radon, which you can do with an affordable kit from a hardware store.