Study released by the University of Nottingham suggests that our homes are bombarded by environmental toxins that decrease fertility in men and dogs.
A recent BBC article revealed a significant decline in fertility rates worldwide using data from 1950 to 2017 and showed that the number of live births per woman was cut in half. The article then went on to explain that the are three main reasons that this decline is happening:
- Fewer deaths in childhood meaning women have fewer babies
- Greater access to contraception
- More women in education and work
But are these actually the root causes behind why fertility is dropping? Not according to the University of Nottingham's latest research.
They found that common household chemicals are the real reason behind the current fertility crisis. Let me ask you a few questions:
Do you have a couch?
Or maybe a few rugs or carpet?
What about doggie toys?
Did you know all of these items and more may contain two common and very toxic plasticizer chemicals? Well unfortunately, it's true. One of these chemicals is called DEHP and can be found in rugs, carpets, upholstery, clothes, flooring, and toys. The second chemical looked at in the study is polychlorinated biphenyl 153 (PCB for short) that is detectable throughout the environment and also found in processed foods.
Scientific Reports published the study conducted by the University of Nottingham that tested how damaging DEHP and polychlorinated biphenyl 153 in the home can be for men and dogs. The findings were alarming and should be broadcasted to every household in Western Society.
The findings concluded that these chemicals have a damaging effect on sperm for both men and dogs. Ultimately, the sperm of men and dogs are effected by decreased motility and resulted in fragmented DNA. Previous studies have shown when there is a lowered sperm motility that DNA fragmentation is evident.
In further, the testing of canines was invaluable to the study because the health of our dogs is the canary in the coal mine in regards to human health. When their health suffers from the environment, one can expect the humans surrounding that dog to suffer as well. However, this study showed that the link between human health and environmental toxins is monumental.
Consequently, these results may be a good reason why infertility has plagued 1 in 8 couples. And rather than unfortunate blame shifting, confusion, and shame that happens with fertility struggles--maybe now the conversation can be geared towards how to make both partners in the relationship work together to live a toxin-free life.
Let's face it, there's a social stigma at play. Women who do not conceive within the first year of trying are more likely to blame themselves than the male partner. This study reveals how male fertility is just as important in the conception equation. All in all, these two common household chemical toxins are a problem that people need to be more educated on.
11 Steps To Heal From Toxic Exposure
After hearing about this new research, those who are trying to conceive may find this news daunting. However, you have more control than you think. There are at least 11 simple solutions to prevent and even eliminate toxic exposure in your home, and this list will help you get on the fast track to upgraded fertility:
Limit highly processed food and buy organic to avoid pesticide residues and GMO toxins. The more plant based, whole, and organic foods you consume, the less you will be exposed the toxins carried in most of the chemically preserved foods on grocery store shelves.
Grow air purifying plants in your home. Plants are natural air detoxifiers and will also produce more oxygen in your breathing space. A few good plants to incorporate into your living space is Aloe Vera, Dragon Tree, Spider plants, English Ivy, or Chinese Evergreen.
Remove any synthetic rugs and carpets, and replace with eco flooring or natural fiber rugs (ie; laminate or hardwood flooring). This solution may require remodeling your space, but it's worth the investment.
Purchase organic mattresses and upholstery with natural fibers. Regular mattresses are loaded with flame retardants and all kinds of harmful chemicals. If you do not want to buy a new mattresses set or couch, consider purchasing organic fiber covers. Do not forget organic fiber pillows or covers!
Ditch harsh household cleaners and make your own. Many are turning to white vinegar mixed with water for all-purpose cleaning and using baking soda for bathroom cleaning. If these DIY solutions don't appeal to you, there are plenty of eco-friendly options on store shelves to choose from these days. Also, remember laundry detergent and dryer sheets are among the household cleaners that have harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Change the filter on your furnace at once a month. While most air filter manufacturers say their filters last three months, just do it once a month for maximum air quality.
Let's not forget about our canine friends since it is clear from the study that they are just as effected from toxins as we are. There are also organic natural fiber beds and covers to choose from. Plus, get them something like a natural fiber rope instead of toys filled with plasticizers.
Eliminate any VOCs such as synthetic candles, or soy candles without a non-GMO label. Other VOC contaminates include but limited to paints, air sprays, clear coats, and glues. As our society is becoming more aware of VOCs there are many alternative options such as paints with no VOCs or even hemp clear coats for protecting wood.
Let's have some bathroom talk. Soaps, shaving creams, toothpastes, shampoos and conditioners may contain toxins that can be traded for non-toxic alternatives with natural ingredients.
Start transitioning to wearing organic cotton, hemp, linen or other natural clothing. Ditch the cheap stuff loaded petroleum derived fabrics and plastics.
Last and not least, open a window once in a while and kick off your shoes when entering your home. Our shoes are exposed to surfaces that can be soaked in toxins. You can prevent any issues by simply taking your shoes off before entering your living space. Opening windows and letting air circulate will help clear stagnant air and help prevent toxin buildup.