The Connection Between Antiperspirants and Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is known to have numerous causes, and one of them may be a hygiene ritual you do every day. Did you know that what deodorant you use has a connection to your breast cancer risk? Dr. Joseph Mercola warns women to be wary of the products they put on their underarms. Studies show that antiperspirants contain a toxic substance that gets deposited in your breast tissue.

The Toxic Ingredient in Antiperspirants

Dr. Mercola says that you should think twice before putting on antiperspirants, even if they are convenient. These types of deodorants function by clogging the pores that release sweat. Because sweating helps in flushing out toxins from your body, antiperspirants prevent your body from cleansing itself.

Aside from this, certain deodorants contain aluminum, a metal that should not be present in your body. A study published in the Journal of Inorganic Biochemistry in 2007 retrieved samples from 17 breast cancer patients who received mastectomies. The women who used antiperspirants showed traces of aluminum in their outer breast tissue and within the tissues closest to the underarm (link).

According to another study, antiperspirants are a common source of aluminum exposure for humans. In These usually contain about 25 percent aluminum salts, and during application, about .012 percent of this metal is absorbed by your body (link). Despite the very minimal amount in one application, multiplying it byto the number of times you apply it for a lifetime will show you how manyuch toxins you can be housing inside your body.

With this large quantity, it can actually be more dangerous than mercury, which is linked to numerous health conditions. In addition to this, aluminum exposure can cause cancer. Research shows that aluminum, when inside the body, mirrors the hormone estrogen. Dr. Mercola says, “Chemicals that imitate that hormone are known to increase breast cancer risk.”

The Risk of Other Deodorants

Obviously, this new discovery will cause you to consider using chemical-free deodorants. These other products work not to stop perspiration but to neutralize the odor of sweat, as well as eliminate bacteria. Unfortunately, some of these other deodorants contain a small percentage of aluminum, particularly ingredients such as aluminum chlorohydrate, aluminum chloride, aluminum hydroxybromide, or aluminum zirconium.

Another option would be crystal deodorant stones. Although this product is said to be aluminum-free, it contains a compound referred to as alum, otherwise known as potassium aluminum sulfate. Because this is too large for your skin to absorb, it creates a protective layer on your skin and wards off odor-causing bacteria. Yet, the facts just show that these are not completely aluminum-free.

Some Natural Recommendations from Dr. Mercola

When shopping for a deodorant, remember to steer clear of antiperspirants. Dr. Mercola says that there are deodorants that are toxin-free, but you just need to take the time to read the labels to see if the product contains aluminum or alum. Another chemicals you have to look out for is parabens since these are also linked to other forms of cancer as well as diminished muscle mass, fat storage, and breast growth (for men).

If you wish to completely stop using commercial deodorants, you can just opt to use a pinch of baking soda mixed with water. According to Dr. Mercola, this works as an effective all-day deodorant. You may also use regular soap and water as well.

A more natural deodorant discovered by Dr. Mercola is by exposing your armpits to sunshine for a short period of time. Not only is this cost-effective, but tanning can raise your levels of vitamin D and the UVB rays can eliminate germs and bacteria that may cause bad odor.

For other information on similar topics, check out other natural health news from Dr. Mercola.

1. Avoid Routine Mammograms if You are Under 50 – Dr. Mercola discusses the risks and limitations of mammograms.
2. At Least Two Thirds of Breast Cancer Cases are Likely Avoidable – Dr. Mercola discusses the causes and natural strategies for its prevention.
3. Omega-3’s Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer – There’s a safer and healthier method to lower your risk of contracting breast cancer.
4. Breast Cancer Breakthrough – Cut Your Risk of Death in Half – If you are a beginner on the topic, this article will help you understand its causes, types, symptoms, and even prevention.

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Tags: aluminum, antiperspirant, breast cancer, crystal deodorant stones, dr mercola, natural deodorants, natural health news, parabens