Harmful Kitchen Items That Can Seriously Damage Your Health

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    By: Annie Morgan

    Many Americans have hidden health hazards lurking in their kitchen that could be making them sick.

    From bacteria-soaked sponges to toxic cookware – the kitchen is a danger zone many people often overlook.

    And with companies trying to sell you the next best “convenient” utensil for your kitchen – before you buy another thing it is critical you know what to avoid.

    Check out these hidden health dangers you might not even know exist in your home.

    Nonstick Pans

    Sure – it’s nice to cook eggs and not have them stick to the bottom of the pan– but cooking with nonstick pans is a major health hazard.

    And according to U.S. News, if they get hotter than 500 degrees, they release toxic fumes which can make you ill.

    Some call it the “Teflon Flu” (named after Teflon pans).

    So yes, you can actually develop flu-like symptoms just from cooking on a pan!

    And if you use metal to scrape the food from the pan, these “nonstick flakes” can attach to your food and be swallowed.

    Instead, cook with cast iron and use butter or olive oil as a base – you’ll get the same nonstick result without the chemicals.

    Plastic Tupperware

    You might think you are being thrifty by having cheap plastic storage containers in your kitchen – but many (especially the older ones) contain bisphenol A, otherwise known as BPA.

    BPA is known as an endocrine disrupter and can cause your body a whole host of problems from neurological to cardiovascular.

    Instead of using plastic to store your food, opt for glass storage containers or mason jars to store your leftovers.

    If you must get plastic, make sure it is BPA free.

    And never put your plastic containers in the microwave!

    Sponges

    Sponges are wet moist hosts and breeding grounds for bacteria.

    And if you use the same sponge to clean your dishes and your countertops, you are literally spreading bacteria all over your kitchen.

    It’s important to replace your sponge regularly, at least once a month.

    In between, you can wet it and place it in the microwave or dishwasher as a way to sanitize it.

    You’d be surprised, but the sponge is one of the dirtiest items in your kitchen.

    Often Overlooked

    Don’t sacrifice convenience for health.  Sure, nonstick pans are nice and plastic food storage containers are cheap, but are they really worth the health risk?

    Many people make smart choices and switch to organic and grass-fed food – but neglect the area they are preparing the food in!

    You don’t have to spend a ton of money and buy a bunch of new products, but make sure you eliminate these health hazards from your kitchen today!

    Do you have any of these health hazards in your kitchen?

    Which one of these health hazards surprised you the most?

    Tell us your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to share this article with your friends and family to let them know the hidden health hazards lurking in their kitchen!