These Commonly Used Products Come With Hidden Health Consequences

When looking for ways to improve your health, you might consider the food you put into your body, the exercise you’re getting, or ways to improve your sleep habits. But do you think about products that you use around your home, in the air, or even on your body?

These products can play a big role in how you feel, and if not paid attention to, could be the driving force behind reduced immunity, fatigue, and a host of other undesirable symptoms. Here’s a list of some of the most overlooked, yet potentially unhealthy products that many of us use on a regular basis…

Scented Candles

Sometimes nothing quite says “home” like lighting your favorite scented candle. You light the wick and, within minutes, the warm, cozy scent of pine, pumpkin, or even clean linens, fills the air, reminding you that this is your safe place. But, how safe is it really? A growing number of studies are showing that your favorite scented candle may be emitting more toxins into the air than a diesel engine that’s been running for 40 minutes.

Scented candles are made out of paraffin wax, a petroleum byproduct that can emit highly toxic fumes like benzene and toluene when burned. Benzene, one of the most widely used chemicals in the U.S., has been directly linked to cancer, and toluene can cause nausea and headaches when inhaled. If you must burn candles, look for candles made of natural materials and always burn them in open, well ventilated areas.