Toothpaste - one of the most widely used daily household items, that anyone and everyone uses for at least twice a day, with kids being asked to be extra vigilant about the health of their teeth. However, do you actually know what is going inside your toothpaste?
Shocking reveal
A recent investigation reported by The Guardian revealed that nearly all major toothpaste brands, including those designed for children, are contaminated with lead and other toxic heavy metals such as cadmium, arsenic, and mercury. In tests of 51 toothpaste brands, 90% were found to contain lead.
What is lead?
Lead is a toxic metal that can be found in old paint, contaminated soil, water pipes, and even some toys. Although its use has been reduced in the last few years, it can still find its way to daily household objects.
Why is it dangerous?
There is no safe level of lead exposure. Even small amounts can be harmful, especially for young children and pregnant women. Lead builds up in the body over time, (which makes it all the more dangerous) storing itself in bones, teeth, and organs like the brain, liver, and kidneys.
Effects on children
Even though most age groups are at risk for lead exposure, children are the most vulnerable, since their bodies absorb lead more easily, while their brains and nervous systems are still developing. Lead exposure in children can cause:
Lower IQ and learning problems
Behavioral issues, like trouble paying attention
Slowed growth and development
Hearing and speech problems
Damage to the brain and nervous system
In severe cases, very high levels of lead can cause seizures, coma, or even death. Even without obvious symptoms, low levels can lead to permanent changes in intelligence and behavior.
How bad is it for adults?
Adults can also suffer from lead exposure. The risks include:
High blood pressure and heart disease
Kidney damage
Memory and concentration problems
Muscle and joint pain
Reproductive problems in both men and women
Pregnant women are especially vulnerable because lead stored in their bones can be released into the blood and harm the developing baby.
What are long-term impacts of lead?
Lead exposure is a major cause of many terminal illnessses worldwide. It contributes to millions of deaths each year, mostly from heart-related problems. It can also cause anemia, immune system problems, and long-term disability.
What symptoms should one watch out for?
Symptoms of lead poisoning can be hard to spot. They may include:
Tiredness and weakness
Headaches
Stomach pain and nausea
Irritability and difficulty concentrating
Often, people do not realize they have been exposed until serious health problems develop.
Stay safe
The good news, however, is that lead poisoning is entirely preventable. Keeping homes free from old paint dust, using clean water, and avoiding known sources of lead can protect you and your family. If you suspect lead exposure, a simple blood test can check for it.
Shocking reveal
A recent investigation reported by The Guardian revealed that nearly all major toothpaste brands, including those designed for children, are contaminated with lead and other toxic heavy metals such as cadmium, arsenic, and mercury. In tests of 51 toothpaste brands, 90% were found to contain lead.
What is lead?
Lead is a toxic metal that can be found in old paint, contaminated soil, water pipes, and even some toys. Although its use has been reduced in the last few years, it can still find its way to daily household objects.
Why is it dangerous?
There is no safe level of lead exposure. Even small amounts can be harmful, especially for young children and pregnant women. Lead builds up in the body over time, (which makes it all the more dangerous) storing itself in bones, teeth, and organs like the brain, liver, and kidneys.
Effects on children
Even though most age groups are at risk for lead exposure, children are the most vulnerable, since their bodies absorb lead more easily, while their brains and nervous systems are still developing. Lead exposure in children can cause:
Lower IQ and learning problems
Behavioral issues, like trouble paying attention
Slowed growth and development
Hearing and speech problems
Damage to the brain and nervous system
In severe cases, very high levels of lead can cause seizures, coma, or even death. Even without obvious symptoms, low levels can lead to permanent changes in intelligence and behavior.
How bad is it for adults?
Adults can also suffer from lead exposure. The risks include:
High blood pressure and heart disease
Kidney damage
Memory and concentration problems
Muscle and joint pain
Reproductive problems in both men and women
Pregnant women are especially vulnerable because lead stored in their bones can be released into the blood and harm the developing baby.
What are long-term impacts of lead?
Lead exposure is a major cause of many terminal illnessses worldwide. It contributes to millions of deaths each year, mostly from heart-related problems. It can also cause anemia, immune system problems, and long-term disability.
What symptoms should one watch out for?
Symptoms of lead poisoning can be hard to spot. They may include:
Tiredness and weakness
Headaches
Stomach pain and nausea
Irritability and difficulty concentrating
Often, people do not realize they have been exposed until serious health problems develop.
Stay safe
The good news, however, is that lead poisoning is entirely preventable. Keeping homes free from old paint dust, using clean water, and avoiding known sources of lead can protect you and your family. If you suspect lead exposure, a simple blood test can check for it.
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