Is this healthy bathroom activity poisoning you?

Most people have never heard of the chemical triclosan. Even fewer realize it's extremely common in their bathrooms. But almost no one knows that this common chemical has been poisoning them for decades.

The FDA made international news when it announced its concerns about the chemical. Triclosan is a chlorinated organic chemical in sanitizers, soaps, and even toothpaste. The manufacturers of these products have added the chemical to their products for decades.

Triclosan is a very reactive chlorinated phenol compound. Research suggests that it can combine with chlorine in your water supply to generate chloroform, a known carcinogen. And it can degrade to extremely toxic dioxins.

It may be an endocrine disruptor on its own. Or it may transform into one when light hits the molecule in the water it contaminates. And most Americans have it in their body, where it is very stable, and will last a long time. As an endocrine disruptor, it could wreak havoc on your breasts, prostate, uterus, and more. "Endocrine disruptor" is a term for manmade chemicals that have extremely toxic hormone-like effects on your body.

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I've warned against chemical-laden soaps and especially antibacterial soaps ever since they arrived. The best defense against infection is a powerful immune system. Chemicals destroy your immune system. If you need topical antibacterial support, consider the wonders of essential oils, such as oregano and thyme. Please don't use chlorinated hydrocarbons like triclosan.

My favorite soap is Dr. Bronner's peppermint soap. It's quite pure and does a great job. You'll find it in most health food stores. Get rid of toothpaste containing antibacterials. Why would any regulator allow such a compound to enter your mouth?

Ref: Layton, Lyndsey. Washington Post, Thursday, April 8, 2010.