Fertility in both males and females can be harmed with the use of these common chemicals found in your everyday life. Take a look at this list to find out what hidden products you may be using that are impacting your chances of conceiving.
BPA
Bisphenol A, or BPA. This chemical can be found in many plastic bottles, most canned food and even receipts (BPA free receipts are those with the red spots on the back). When high levels of BPA have been found in urine, it has been linked with lower-quality sperm in men and less-viable eggs in women.
How to avoid this fertility buster:
Shop from the fresh produce aisle in the grocery store, avoid drinking from plastic bottles, and go paperless when it comes to receipts (hey, you are helping the environment, as well!)
GMOs
Genetically engineered, or GMO. This chemical can be found in many foods contacting soy or corn. These crops, including corn, soy, and canola, are genetically manipulated to withstand heavy loads of toxic pesticides. In a 2008 study, it was found that genetically engineered food damaged test animals ability to reproduce.
Solve this issue:
Go organic. Although it may be slightly more costly for some foods, it pays off in the long run.
Nonstick chemicals
Easy to clean pots, pans and baking wear. These destructive chemicals begin sticking to food with high use. Check your pots and pans for scratches and chips. Danish researchers found that men with higher levels of a common nonstick chemicals, perfluoroalkyl acids, had half the amount of healthy sperm of men with the lowest levels. It has also been found that women who have higher levels of nonstick chemicals in the body longer to become pregnant.
Live without this chemical:
Prepare your food at home, so you know what goes into your meals and use untreated cookware (glass, iron, etc.)
Nitrates
Found in polluted drinking water, this chemical has been associated with reproductive problems, cancers, and spontaneous abortion. Watch out for this problem in areas where chemical fertilizers are used regularly.
Check Your Water:
Use the EWG’s What is Your Water? Gadget if you drink municipal water. If you’re on well water, have an EPA-approved water-testing facility check for common well contaminants. If you find nitrates in your water, buy a water filter for your home to protect your family.
Pesticides
Atrazine, a common chemical weed killer used heavily in the Midwest, on Southern sugar cane farms, and on golf courses, has been detected in tap water. Its widespread use is not good news for couples trying to conceive, since it and other pesticides have been linked to miscarriage and infertility.
Protect yourself:
Buy safe, natural lawn care products and install a home water filter.
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