Forever Plastics and Your Health: What You Need to Know
In recent years, the conversation around environmental sustainability has shifted dramatically, especially concerning “forever plastics” — plastics that never fully decompose, lingering in our environment and bodies indefinitely. As someone committed to creating wellness products that align with both personal and planetary health, I’ve come to understand the deep impact these materials have not only on the planet but also on our well-being.
The Growing Threat of Forever Plastics
The numbers are staggering. According to a recent study, over “8.3 billion metric tons” of plastic have been produced since the 1950s, with only “9%” being recycled. The rest ends up in landfills, oceans, and even our bodies. Microplastics — tiny plastic particles — have been found in human blood, lungs, and even placentas.
What does this mean for our health and wellness? For many, particularly vulnerable groups like pregnant women, those going through menopause, and the immunocompromised, the consequences could be serious.
What Are Forever Plastics?
Forever plastics, also known as persistent plastics, include materials like polyethylene, polystyrene, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). These substances break down slowly, taking hundreds or even thousands of years to decompose. As they degrade, they release toxic chemicals like phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA) — substances that have been linked to hormone disruption, cancer, and immune system damage.
For anyone committed to a holistic lifestyle, understanding the dangers of these chemicals is crucial. Pregnant women, for example, are exposed to higher levels of these toxins, which can affect fetal development. For menopausal women, the hormonal imbalances already in play could be exacerbated by hormone-disrupting chemicals. And for the immune-compromised, plastics and their chemicals can create additional burdens on already fragile systems.
Chemicals in Everyday Products: Fragrances and Plastics
One area where plastics and harmful chemicals intersect is in everyday wellness and beauty products — specifically, fragrances. Did you know that the term “fragrance” on a label can mask a cocktail of over 3,000 unregulated chemicals, many of which are derived from petroleum and plastics? These synthetic fragrances are often created using phthalates, which are absorbed through the skin, inhaled into the lungs, and even ingested.
As someone leading a company that focuses on non-toxic, healing products, I feel compelled to offer healthier alternatives. At ADORAtherapy, we use essential oils instead of synthetic fragrances. Essential oils are derived from plants, offering the same emotional and energetic benefits without the toxic load. When you're using products made with pure, natural ingredients, you’re not just supporting your health — you're also aligning with the rhythms of nature, a principle deeply rooted in wellness practices.
Why Ingredients Matter
“..And if you’re actually measuring what’s in your blood, 98 percent to 99 percent of people have PFAS in their bodies, so it’s literally in everybody” says Elsie M. Sunderland in the Vox article “You probably have “forever chemicals” in your body”. PFA’s are in your water, your cosmetics, your clothes, pretty much everywhere. Even bottled water isn’t safe. So should we be terrified, or simply worried? We think you should start with being informed. Then you can make decisions about your everyday life, and rethink the details in your purchasing supply chains, and everyday living choices. Ultimately, assessing your risk and your families especially children, the elderly and the immuno-spressed will dictate your level of concern and mitigation.
Who Should Be Concerned?
While everyone should be mindful of plastic exposure, certain groups are at higher risk:
- Pregnant Women: Exposure to toxins during pregnancy can harm fetal development, leading to potential long-term health risks for both mother and baby.
- Menopausal Women: Hormone disruption is already a key concern during menopause, and exposure to chemicals like BPA can make symptoms worse or trigger additional health issues.
- Immune-Compromised Individuals: Plastics and their byproducts can place additional strain on the immune system, making recovery and wellness even more challenging.
- General Population: Ultimately, everyone is affected by the accumulation of plastic waste, whether it's through direct exposure or the environmental harm caused by its production and disposal.
Why Packaging Matters
It’s not just about what’s inside the bottle — it's about the bottle itself. Conventional plastics used in packaging can leach chemicals into products, especially when exposed to heat or light. At ADORAtherapy, we’re committed to eco-conscious packaging that reduces our reliance on forever plastics. Our packaging is designed to be recyclable and reusable, making a small but meaningful impact on the reduction of plastic waste.
For those looking for healthier alternatives in their wellness journey, being mindful of both ingredients and packaging is critical. Choosing products packaged in glass or other safe materials is one step towards reducing your exposure to harmful chemicals.
A Call for Healthier Alternatives
As a society, we’re beginning to realize the extent to which these forever plastics and synthetic chemicals are woven into our daily lives. While it may feel overwhelming, change is possible. By choosing products that prioritize sustainable packaging, non-toxic ingredients, and essential oils over synthetic fragrances, you’re making an investment in both your personal health and the health of the planet.
At ADORAtherapy, we believe in aligning your aura with the Earth’s energy by offering cleaner, safer alternatives. We encourage everyone — especially those most vulnerable — to look beyond the surface of their products. Be conscious of what you’re putting in and on your body, and consider the broader impact of the materials you’re using.
Remember: Wellness starts with awareness. By making mindful choices, we can protect our health and nurture the planet, one product at a time.
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