sedentary life, bad nutrition, health problems… there are many factors that might make a person fat. Besides, there is a little popular to which you will never attribute weight gain: shampoo bottles. Weird, isn’t it? So why exactly would these be able to contribute to weight gain? A new scientific study gives us the answer and it’s related to the endocrine system.
The scientific relationship between weight gain and hair washing
Here is an unexpected effect of shampoo bottles that we use every day: they contain endocrine disruptors that might promote weight gain. The study in question was published on January 26, 2022 in the scientific journal Environmental Science & Technology and it was conducted by researchers from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology.
For the purposes of their study, the scientists examined 55,300 various chemical constituents contained in the plastic bottles of shampoo and shower gel. Thus, the researchers were able to identify 629 unique compounds, 11 of which were known to be endocrine disruptors.
Among these substances detected were bisphenols and phthalates, which are widely present in several plastic products in our daily lives. In addition, their effect on fat cells has been identified. According to the researchers, keeping these products in the bathroom plays a key role in the transfer of substances to the human body due to heat and humidity.
Scientists further point out that everyday plastics contain potent mixtures of endocrine disruptors that may contribute to obesity. As a reminder, these affect several body functions including hormones and cholesterol and can even promote the development of cancer and other diseases.
What can be done to avoid these serious consequences?
To care for your hair safely for general health, the editorial staff recommends that you prepare a homemade natural shampoo and store it in glass bottles available in various sizes and shapes.
Reference:
Environmental Science & Technology (janvier 2022) : « Adipogenic Activity of Chemicals Used in Plastic Consumer Products », Johannes Völker et coll.