An age-old saying states that health is wealth. While most people equate being healthy to physical exercise and a nutritious diet, several other factors are involved in maintaining your health.
Things You Should Throw Away to Stay Healthy
Here is a list of some common things people use every day that may be causing more harm than good in the long run.
1. Antibacterial soaps
Antibacterial soaps are usually made with strong chemicals and antiseptic agents such as triclosan and BPA. (1) Exposure to these agents for prolonged periods can lead to significant problems such as thyroid issues, respiratory problems such as asthma, and skin allergies.
The US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA), Canadian Medical Association, and European Union have all sought a ban on all antibacterial soaps in their countries. (2)
2. Plastic water bottles and containers
Plastic containers are made of harmful chemicals such as bisphenols (BPA, BPF, etc.), phthalates, and polychlorinated biphenyls. These substances can seep into the food you store in plastic containers.
Microplastics are known to cause an array of health issues and some of these substances can even be carcinogenic. (3)
3. Air fresheners and room deodorizers
Air fresheners use butane propellant to help spray the product. Inhaling it may lead to increased heart rate, asthma, and other health issues. They also contain phthalates that are toxic and can cause hormonal imbalances and birth defects in the long term. (4)
4. Expired medication and vitamins
Expired items, especially the ones you consume, can pose a serious health hazard to your family. Always make sure to check the expiry label on a food product or medication before consuming it. (5)
5. Old or frayed toothbrush
Old toothbrushes become hotbeds of bacteria. You should always change your tongue cleaners and toothbrushes once in three months. Never store them in closed spaces to prevent bacterial growth. (6)
6. Old contact lens case
Contact lens cases tend to get dirty with time. It is important to clean them regularly with lens solution and change them after a while. Even properly cleaned lens cases have a tendency to acquire dirt and bacteria after some time. (7)
Moreover, never wash your contact lens case with tap water. This can put you at risk of developing Acanthamoeba keratitis, a corneal infection caused by bacteria in the water.
7. Kitchen sponges
Kitchen sponges can turn into breeding grounds for a wide range of microorganisms (even when there is no visible dirt or grime on them). Replace your sponges frequently and clean them properly.
Some studies show that boiling or microwaving kitchen sponges can kill most of the bacteria in them. (8)
8. Worn-out running shoes
Running shoes tend to get worn out sooner than other pairs of shoes. Worn-out shoes can be harmful to the health of your feet as they put a strain on your foot muscles and bones.
They should be thrown out and replaced once every three to four months.
9. Frozen and canned foods
Frozen foods are filled with preservatives and chemicals that can be extremely harmful to your family’s health. On top of that, the excessive processing required to prepare them leaves them with little to no nutrients.
10. Stale spices and condiment packets
Spices and condiments turn less potent and aromatic the longer they are stored. They also tend to be contaminated with bacteria after a year of storage. (9) Always use fresh spices and herbs.
11. Diet soda
Multiple studies have proven that diet soda may actually cause weight gain – which goes against the entire point of a drink marketed to people trying to stay healthy and fit. It has been linked with weight gain and metabolic syndrome in mice. (10)(11)
12. Chemical-enriched cosmetics
Cosmetic products such as makeup brushes, lipsticks, and eyeshadow palettes tend to accumulate bacteria after a few months of use. You should discard these products after a few months and regularly sanitize your makeup brushes.
Moreover, always chose cosmetics that do not contain harmful substances such as arsenic and oxybenzone. (12)
13. Old bras
Old bras lose their elasticity and turn uncomfortable to use. Ill-fitting bras cause sagging breasts and may even cause breast pain or shoulder pain.
The maximum life span of a bra is 8–10 months and should be replaced after. (13)
Final Word
Healthy living is important for a long and happy life. You should be mindful of the food you consume and the products you use in your day-to-day life to avoid being harmed by them.
Doing so may seem like a hassle for a while, but eventually you will get used to it and adopt a more conscious and healthier approach to life.
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