Is your medicine cabinet sabotaging your GUT HEALTH?
It’s supposed to be where all the things that keep you clean, hygienic, and healthy live…
But according to a shocking finding, something lurking in your medicine cabinet could be wreaking havoc on your GUT HEALTH!
Here’s everything you need to know… including a healthier (and safer) alternative.
According to a study published in Nature Communications, triclosan—an antimicrobial found in some toothpastes—can trigger gut inflammation.
First made as a pesticide, triclosan has actually been around since the 1960s. But in recent years, it has made its way into a wide range of personal care items…
Triclosan is best known for killing germs. This is why you’ll find it in most hand soaps and body washes.
Triclosan also kills bacteria, so most toothpaste manufacturers use it in their products (with FDA approval) since it has been found to help prevent gingivitis.
BUT new lab and animal studies have identified specific gut microbial enzymes—notably gut microbial beta-glucuronidase (GUS) proteins—and when combined with triclosan they can wreak havoc on your gut and contribute to colitis, a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
And though these findings are based off lab and animal studies… it doesn’t mean you should completely ignore triclosan.
According to a statement from the FDA, fluoride toothpastes are considered OTC drugs. If an OTC drug contains triclosan, it should be listed as an ingredient on the label, in the ‘Drug Facts’ box.
So, if you’re wary of the effects of triclosan, take a look at your toothpaste and if it says it contains triclosan, consider tossing it.
Instead, the next time you’re shopping for toothpaste, look for varieties that are triclosan-free, there are plenty of them!
You can also talk with your dentist about recommendations for toothpastes that are free of triclosan.
As for gut health—and total gut protection—a taking a high-quality probiotic will help protect you from any nasty gut “invaders.”
To a healthy mouth and gut,
Cory Templeman
Senior Editor, eAlert
PS – For a complete look of A-Z gut health, check out our in-depth look in our monthly newsletter. Click the button below to subscribe and get instant access
Sources:
Medical Xpress. “Study reveals how triclosan, likely found in toothpaste, is triggered to harm the gut.” https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-01-reveals-triclosan-toothpaste-triggered-gut.html
Brody, Barbara. “The Truth About Triclosan.” https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/features/what-is-triclosan
U.S. Food & Drug Administration. “5 Things to Know About Triclosan.” https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/5-things-know-about-triclosan
