The Chemicals In Shampoo: Could They Be Affecting Your Weight?

It’s been over two months now and I’m still holding strong with going no ‘poo. In actuality, though, the switch has yet to become a challenge. It’s become very clear over the past several weeks that traditional shampoos and conditioners do not need to be a daily part of my showering routine. If you needed more support or evidence for going no poo, there is even more research now that may tip your scale.

No matter where you look, it’s pretty evident that weight has quickly become a serious problem here in America. Obesity has been on the steady incline for years now, and it doesn’t seem to be slowing down. New research is finding, though, that maybe the obesity epidemic isn’t as cut and dry as calories in versus calories out. Is Your Shampoo Making You Fat is a thought-provoking piece exploring what other factors may be contributing to our weight issues. Environmental researchers have long believed that external factors have been playing  a role in weight and now evidence is coming to light to support just that.

Scientists are now able to draw a link between the obesity epidemic and the increase of chemicals in our daily lives and routines. Studies have shown that the exposure to certain chemicals can wreak havoc on our body’s ability to control weight. These “chemical calories” cause major disruption to our hormones and our systems. One of these chemicals that causes such a reaction in our bodies is phthalates, which are present in up to 70 percent of the top selling products on shelves today. The only way to avoid this chemical, and others like it, is to avoid using shampoos, conditioners, cosmetics, and soaps containing it.

Wether you choose to believe this research or not, one cannot fully understand what the chemicals present in traditional shampoos can do. Continued use of products containing chemicals can, I believe, only end up having adverse effects on your health. What do you think? Do you think that traditional shampoo could be, in essence, making us obese? Does this motivate you to try no ‘poo or make you think twice about the products that you use in your daily life? Let us know what you think! Feel free to leave any comments, questions, or links.

[Shower head image by steeljam via Flickr Creative Commons]