Triclosan - An Unnecessary Antibacterial Now Shown to be Toxic

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Triclosan - An Unnecessary Antibacterial Now Shown to be Toxic

Natalie Cadranel

Monday, August 11, 2008

Think antibacterials are protecting you and your family from getting sick? Think again. The antibacterial agent known as Triclosan is likely to be especially toxic to a developing fetus or child, especially since it is often found in breast milk. So how did it get there?

The prevalence of antibacterials in our society is ever-increasing as it's used in more and more everyday products including toothpaste, liquid hand soap, dishwasher detergent, cutting boards, mattresses, bathtubs, shower curtains, and even socks.

The Environmental Working Group reports that the agent is no more effective at eliminating germs than good old soap and water. This is especially disappointing in light of the fact that Triclosan has been linked to cancer in lab animals as well as liver and inhalation toxicity. When disposed of, it is acutely toxic to aquatic life as it breaks down into a form of dioxin and chloroform when mixed with tap water.

A recent report by the Journal of Applied Toxicology stated that the elevated levels of Triclosan in marine environments may cause endocrine disruption in many of our aquatic allies. Endocrine disruption, in its most basic sense, has to do with the drastic alteration of normal development and growth. Under normal conditions, the endocrine system is in charge of slow processes, like cell growth and maintenance, by secreting hormones that travel through the bloodstream, acting only on those glands that have selective receptors for them, including: the thymus, the stomach, the small intestines, the heart, and placenta. When certain chemicals, like Triclosan, plug into receptors in place for normal hormones, they can slow down, speed up, or even stop these vital functions.

Europe has targeted the products containing it for removal from some of its stores. Additionally, the American Medical Association recommends that it should not be used in the home and is concerned that excessive use of antibacterial agents will lead to bacterial resistance to antibiotics. It remains a vital and imperative habit to ensure proper hygiene for our hands and body, but our long term health must not be compromised for short-term quick-fixes.

Learn more about Triclosan.

Even more.

Check out the EWG report, pocket action guides and much more.