Smart shoppers today carefully read ingredient labels to ensure that the food and drinks they consume are healthy. Long-term consumption of artificial flavors and colors, preservatives, chemical stabilizers, and trans fats has been proven to lead to health problems. Dr. Harold Katz, a Dentist and Oral Health Expert, recommends that we all read the ingredient label.
“You will brush your teeth 1,000 times per year or more, and each time you do, you will ingest some toothpaste. If you think that is not a problem, think again,” says Dr Katz. “Some of the ingredients in many commercial toothpastes are undeniably bad for you.”
Katz founded the California Breath Clinics. He has been leading oral care research at the clinic for the past 19 years. Katz recommends that people looking to avoid problematic ingredients purchase an “ethical”TheraBreath is a toothpaste brand that includes Weleda’s Salt and Tom’s of Maine. TheraBreath is, for instance, certified Vegan, Kosher and Sulfate Free, Alcohol-Free, Gluten-Free, and Gluten-Free. Dr Katz compiled the following list to help conscious brushers identify harmful ingredients.
* FD&C blue dye No. 2. Although this dye is found in many toothpastes it is advised against by the Center for Science in the Public Interest. It may be linked to learning and behavior issues, severe allergic reactions, and other health problems.
* Sodium lauryl sulfate. According to the American College of Toxicology, it can cause skin irritation, skin corrosion and canker sores. It caused depression, diarrhea, and death in lab rats.
* Triclosan. The anti-microbial ingredient is listed as a pesticide and is used in OTC toothpaste and hand soap. The Environmental Protection Agency requested more research due to triclosan’s adverse effects on estrogen and thyroid levels.
* Saccharin and aspartame. Both artificial sweeteners are listed on the Center for Science in the Public Interest’s list of additives to be avoided.
Katz suggests that the same nutritionists advise you to stick to when eating, but it should also apply to your oral care products. “Look for a toothpaste with natural ingredients like Aloe Juice and Tea Tree Oil. Xylitol is an excellent cavity fighting sweetener used by both Spry and TheraBreath in their effective toothpastes. And avoid toothpastes with added colors — they serve no purpose and can actually decrease the whiteness of your teeth over time.”
For more information, please visit www.therabreath.com
