You may probably know that eating oily and high-carb foods and being sedentary result to weight gain which is why you try to do regular exercises and eat more vegetables and fruits. However, you may be surprised that certain chemicals, which are commonly found in consumer goods, can also mess up your metabolism and your goal in losing weight.
These are the chemicals which have been found to slow down a person's metabolic rate:
Pesticides
According to a recent study, certain pesticides contain chemicals which can disrupt the endocrine hormone resulting to a slower metabolic rate. One of these chemicals is the tributylin which is used for pests which attack food crops. Some anti-fungal paints used for boats also contain this chemical. Another chemical used for pesticide which may predispose people to obesity is the hexachlorobenzene. According to a study, mothers who were exposed to high levels of this chemical have children who were twice more likely to be obese or overweight. To avoid these chemicals, people should limit their use of pesticides and insecticides around their homes and avoid foods which contain pesticide residue (this is why organic farm produce is better).
Bisphenol A
This is a chemical commonly used in plastics, teethers, toys, and cans which has been found to contribute to weight gain. This is proven by a recent study showing that rats exposed to this chemical, which is a synthetic estrogen, have gained a significant amount of weight regardless of their food intake. These are the tips to avoid this chemical: buy products which have a "BPA free" label; limit the consumption of canned goods and drinks; avoid No. 7 plastic; avoid microwaving foods in plastic containers; and use stainless steel water bottle.
Phthalates
This is a chemical commonly found in perfumes, soft plastics, and many consumer products. And according to a government study, this can slow down a person's metabolic rate and reduce the testosterone levels of men who are exposed to this chemical for a long period. To avoid this chemical, you should not use perfumes which bear these acronyms: DMP, DEHP, DBP, DEP, BxBP, and DMP. You should also avoid No. 3 plastics. Perfluorooctane sulfonate and PFOA and PFOSEURPerfluorooctanoic acid These chemicals are commonly used in nonstick pans, stain-resistant clothing, grease-resistant paper, and carpets. To avoid these chemicals which have been found to predispose babies to obesity later in life, people should read the label of nonstick pans before buying these products, avoid foods which are wrapped with a grease-proof paper, and limit the intake of fast foods.
