New research out of Duke University links exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals in household dust to increased weight gain. Scientists found that even consuming 3 micrograms of contaminated dust, well below the 50 milligrams that the average child consumes in a day, is enough to exhibit adipogenic activity. More specifically, 44 common household chemicals that were tested, including two flame retardants and dibutyl phthalate were among those to exhibit the strongest fat-producing effect.

The results were published in the July issue of the journal Environmental Science and Technology.

It is possible to opt out of purchasing furnishing and indoor products that contain health-harming chemicals. As part of Health Care Without Harm and Practice Greenhealth’s Healthier Hospitals, a list of furnishings that do not contain some of these harmful chemicals is publicly available,  and Practice Greenhealth provides guidance and resources for health care institutions interested in reducing exposure to toxic indoor dust by purchasing healthier furniture and supply options.

[Source: The Telegraph]