Believe it or not, inflammation is actually a protective mechanism in the body: it alerts us to pain or infection and kicks off the healing process. But when inflammation becomes chronic, it can lead to a whole range of symptoms and conditions, including fatigue, brain fog, hormonal imbalances, and cardiovascular issues, says functional medicine specialist Dr. Jessica Peatross. Beyond food, the modern world unfortunately exposes us to many items that promote inflammation—especially in our homes. Here are six of the most common inflammatory items in your home that might need to be tossed out.
- Dr. Pooja Gidwani, MD, MBA, double board-certified internal medicine doctor and longevity specialist
- Dr. Kara Wada, MD, quadruple board-certified physician in pediatric and adult allergy/immunology and lifestyle medicine
- Dr. Jessica Peatross, MD, functional medicine specialist and founder of Wellness+
Nonstick Cookware
Conventional nonstick pans are coated with PFAS (or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as “forever chemicals”), which can then be released into your food and environment when overheated. These substances “bioaccumulate and interfere with immune cell signaling and hormones,” says internal medicine physician Dr. Pooja Gidwani. PFAS exposure is linked to elevated C-reactive protein (CRP, associated with accelerated aging), as well as altered vaccine antibody responses in children, and metabolic syndrome, “which are all signs of immune dysregulation and low-grade inflammation,” Dr. Gidwani says.
If you can, try replacing your conventional nonstick pans with healthier alternatives. It’s best to use nonstick pans only when truly necessary.
Plastic Food Storage
For your health’s sake, swap your plastic food storage containers for glass, stainless steel, or silicone wherever possible—especially if you heat your food in them. “Plastics release bisphenols (BPA, BPS, BPF) and phthalates when heated, microwaved, or worn,” Dr. Gidwani says, adding that BPA-free plastics aren’t necessarily a better option since they often contain added bisphenols to compensate. The substances that leach from plastic food containers “have been linked to endocrine disruption and inflammation,” says physician Dr. Kara Wada. If you must use plastic containers, don’t microwave your food in them and make sure to handwash them every time—added heat from your dishwasher can further trigger toxic chemicals.
Aluminum Foil
Aluminum foil shouldn’t be used for preserving acidic foods such as tomatoes, citrus, or vinegar, since they can cause aluminum ions to leach into your food. “High aluminum intake has been associated with oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, and chronic exposure has been implicated in the development of Alzheimer’s dementia,” Dr. Gidwani says. While aluminum foil may be OK to use with certain foods, you may want to use alternatives such as beeswax wraps and unbleached parchment paper, Dr. Peatross suggests.
Furniture and Mattresses With Flame Retardants
A majority of upholstered furniture—like couches and armchairs—and mattresses are treated with chemicals that can lead to inflammation. “This law for mandatory furniture flame retardants was passed in the 1970s and was driven by cigarette companies after couches started catching on fire when folks fell asleep with a lit cig in their hands,” Dr. Peatross says. While furniture not catching fire is a good thing, the way it’s done can lead to many health issues. “Flame retardants (and often phthalates) off-gas into house dust and air,” Dr. Wada adds. “Recent research shows children’s mattresses emit harmful chemicals when warmed—compounds linked to hormonal effects (thyroid problems), neurodevelopmental issues, asthma, and cancer.”
If you’re in a position to replace your furniture and mattresses, opt for products that are GreenGuard and OEKO-TEX certified, Dr. Wada suggests. These days, plenty of brands offer safer homewares, such as Avocado and Sabai.
Scented Candles and Plug-in Air Fresheners
Scented candles and plug-in air fresheners are often packed with chemicals that promote inflammation. “I know they smell so yummy (and sometimes comforting), but paraffin wax, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances pump endocrine disruptors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like formaldehyde into your air,” Dr. Peatross says. “That’s not relaxation—that’s low-grade hidden inflammation.” These products can exacerbate allergies and asthma and cause headaches.
Consider replacing your scented products with an air purifier that removes rather than masks odors. However, beeswax or coconut wax-based candles scented with essential oils make a non-inflammatory alternative, as do natural diffusers, per Dr. Peatross.
Harsh Cleaning Products
Cleaning products such as bleach, ammonia, and those containing artificial fragrance can cause irritation and should be avoided where possible. “Bleach and ammonia emit reactive chlorine and nitrogen compounds,” Dr. Gidwani says. “Repeated exposure damages epithelial barriers in the respiratory tract and promotes immune-mediated inflammation.” These negative health effects have been shown through studies of cleaning staff who were exposed to the toxic chemicals over the long term. If you can, try purchasing natural brands of cleaning products such as Branch Basics or Dr. Bronner’s, or use multipurpose ingredients such as baking soda and vinegar with cleaning cloths, Dr. Wada suggests. You can even easily make your own cleaning products!
