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| Many people find that if they severely limit the amount of exposure to offending chemicals at home, they are able to tolerate more exposure without serious adverse effects when they go out. Reducing intake of chemicals in foods and water and in the form of drugs is also important. Probably the first thing that someone looking for a safe place to live should do is avoid newly-built or refurbished houses or apartments. The World Health Organization classifies chemicals according to their volatility from highest to lowest as follows: Very Volatile Organic Compounds (VVOCs) The main example of a VVOC is formaldehyde. It's worth noting here that fashionable wooden floorings at first glance may seem better than carpeting, but are in fact a lot worse with regards to off gassing if they are made from particle board. Furniture - Hardwood furniture treated only with beeswax, stainless steel and glass tables and chairs. These guidelines are mainly useful when looking for new furniture, flooring, and so on. One of the biggest problems for MCS sufferers with regards to modern domestic chemical products is that fragrances are added to the vast majority. The following chemicals, and any other scented or synthetic products should be removed from the home or at least have their use reduced:
It's not commonly known but a substantial amount of chemicals can be absorbed through the skin from the water when you take a bath or a shower. Ceramic/carbon filters may be equally as effective for most people. Filters are also available that attach to the shower head so you shower in filtered water. We recommend trying dietary, lifestyle and holsitic/naturopathic solutions first wherever possible. |
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