Chemicals in toys, tin cans fuel obesity

Chemicals that mimic or interfere with the effect of hormones could be fuelling the obesity epidemic, warns a health study. The chemicals, found in mobile phone cases and tin cans, shampoos and shower curtains, may also help trigger diabetes, researchers have concluded. The report called for prompt action to reduce exposure, particularly among pregnant women and those planning to start a family. Some experts described the report as alarming, but others said the key to good health is in what we eat and drink. 

    Spanish and South Korean researchers went through over 240 studies on obesity, pollution and type 2 diabetes. They concluded that the evidence that chemicals can lead to weight gain in animals is compelling. They added that the link between environmental chemicals and diabetes in people was first made more than 15 years ago and the volume and strength of evidence has been particularly persuasive since 2006.

CAUTION! Minimise the use of such items