Parabens yummy!

I could go for a bowl of Pasta with a side of methylparaben, ethylparaben, and of course butylparaben. NO one has ever said that! Yet, those names listed above are in our food supply, in cosmetics, perfumes, deodorants, along with numerous other products we use daily.

So, what's the problem and why am I ranting?!  I was so excited for my chicken tacos on sunday night; my husband bought some corn tortillas that I was ready to use- until I read the list of ingredients. Methyparaben and Ethylparaben were two of the leading ingredients. I threw them away immediately and was so angry people are eating these not knowing what's really in them!

Parabens  are a group of chemicals that are used as preservatives. In theory, they are great. They prevent the growth of yeasts, molds, and bacteria, so yes, they preserve things that we don't want spoiling on us. But at what cost?! There have been links found to breast cancer and parabens. Many different biopsy samples have had high concentrations containing parabens. Now, while it is not a direct link to breast cancer, it is concerning that so many biopsies have contained significant amounts of said parabens. They also have an estrogen-like affect on our bodies, again not a direct link, but adding substances that act like hormones normally isn't a good idea.

I know it's hard to preserve food and that why parabens are so prevalant in our food supply. I am asking you to reduce the intake of parabens, read packages and think before you bite or slather that shampoo. Our bodies absorb through our skin and digestive system and while they are great at detoxing, we don't need to overload our systems with preservatives that probably aren't good for us. A great way to avoid parabens is to shop on the outer perimeter  of the grocery store. We are talking fruits, veggies, meats, beans, legumes, and dairy. Items that are packaged are generally not going to have as much nutritional value and have the risk of additives you don't need. Label reading and learning what the back of the package means are both important. A general rule is if it has ingredients you can't pronounce, it probably has junk in there you don't need. Now, like everything, not all trans fat, chemicals, and preservatives can be avoided, but lessening yours is a good start!

I added links to both FDAs and breast cancer foundations findings on parabens...
http://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/productandingredientsafety/selectedcosmeticingredients/ucm128042.htm

http://www.breastcancerfund.org/clear-science/radiation-chemicals-and-breast-cancer/parabens.html