top of page
Search

From Receipts to Toilet Paper: The Chemicals You Didn’t Expect

We use many paper products on a daily basis - think paper towels, toilet paper, facial tissues, paper plates, paper cups, paper wrapping, and sales receipts. These products expose us to many chemicals that can have negative health effects, including PFAS, BPA, BPS, bleaching agents, dioxins, and formaldehyde.


PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because they linger in the environment for a very long time. PFAS have been found in many paper products. One investigation found that 24% of toilet paper contained PFAS. PFAS are widely used in paper food packaging, as these chemicals resist absorption of oils and liquids. According to the EPA, PFAS may lead to reproductive issues, developmental issues, increased cancer risk, hormonal disruption, and immune system impairment.


BPA, bisphenol A, has been widely used as a chemical catalyst in the printing process of receipts. In 2011, 94% of thermal receipts and 81% of other paper products contained BPA. BPA use has come under scrutiny and many companies are switching to different chemicals. However, “[a] common replacement chemical for BPA is bisphenol S (BPS) – a chemical with a very similar structure and equal intrinsic properties.”


“Exposure to BPA is a concern because of the possible health effects on the brain and prostate gland of fetuses, infants and children. It can also affect children's behavior. Additional research suggests a possible link between BPA and increased blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.”


To give paper products their clean white color, bleaching agents are used. The most common bleaching agent is chlorine dioxide. Long term exposure to this compound can result in respiratory conditions. Chlorine dioxide degrades into dioxins and furans, which are far more hazardous.


“A draft report released for public comment in September 1994 by the US Environmental Protection Agency clearly describes dioxin as a serious public health threat. The public health impact of dioxin may rival the impact that DDT had on public health in the 1960's. According to the EPA report, not only does there appear to be no "safe" level of exposure to dioxin, but levels of dioxin and dioxin-like chemicals have been found in the general US population that are ‘at or near levels associated with adverse health effects.’”


Formaldehyde, a probable carcinogen, has also been found in some paper products in trace amounts. Health effects of formaldehyde include increased cancer risk and irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and respiratory tract.


Exposure to these harmful chemicals can be reduced by switching to more natural alternatives. Cloth towels and air dryers can be chosen over paper towels. Opting for digital receipts instead of printed receipts can help reduce your exposure to BPA and BPS. Consider choosing toilet paper that has been third party tested to have low levels of chemicals. Facial tissues can be swapped for reusable handkerchiefs. Cook your own meals or bring your own containers to restaurants to limit exposure from food packaging. 


Overall, the best way to reduce chemical exposure is to eat an organic whole food diet, avoid chemical laden products, and support your body’s natural detoxification pathways. For personalized nutrition and supplement advice, schedule an appointment at Renewed Hope Nutrition.




References:

Comments

bottom of page