Common household products that are harmful to brain health. Advice from our expert to protect yourself

in collaboration with

Pierre Souvet (cardiologist and President of the French Environmental Health Association (ASEF).)

Home cleaning products are regularly criticized because of their potential harmful effects on our health. In a new study published in the journal Nature Neurosciencescientists drive the point home and demonstrate that they are toxic to certain cells in our brain.

More than a thousand household products tested on mice

Scientists evaluated 1,823 common household chemicals. They were particularly interested in two substances:

• Quaternary ammonium compoundsoften found in products such as shower gels, shampoos, sunscreens, baby wipes, shaving creams and disinfectants
• Organophosphate flame retardantsmore common in electronic devices, building materials and furniture via flame retardant foam and plastic.

By testing these different substances on mice, the researchers demonstrate that of the 1823 products selected, 292 are toxic to a special type of brain cell: oligodendrocytes. These brain cells notably have an insulating function for neurons.

Cells linked to the appearance of disorders such as autism or multiple sclerosis

“We show that specific chemicals found in consumer products can directly harm oligodendrocytes, representing a previously unrecognized risk factor for neurological disease.” explains Dr. Paul Tesar, principal investigator of the study.

According to him, “loss of oligodendrocytes underlies multiple sclerosis and other neurological diseases“like autism. The researcher and his team also hope that their work”will contribute to informed decisions regarding regulatory measures or behavioral interventions to minimize chemical exposure and protect human health.”

But in practice, how can we avoid being exposed to this type of chemical molecules? Dr Pierre Souvet, president of the Santé Environnement France association, gives us his advice.

Concerning hygiene and beauty products, he recommends relying on the applications that exist “in order to access the list of components, especially those which are the most problematic“If possible, the doctor also advises turning to organic cosmetic products.”Cosmébio labeled products do not contain quaternary ammonium” he recalls.

Finally, regarding flame retardants, Pierre Souvet recognizes that they are very present in furniture, in particular, but also in fatty foods. He therefore recommends “ventilate the rooms regularly, to avoid being too exposed to this type of particle” And “to avoid eating too much fat, because fatty food will tend to fix this type of molecule”.