Making the switch to organic toothpaste: all you need to know
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You’re already familiar with the benefits of buying organic ingredients at the supermarket - it contains less of those pesky pesticides, chemicals and hormones. But how about making the switch to using an organic toothpaste as well? In this article, we tell you all you need to know about organic toothpaste, and the added health benefits these have over regular toothpaste.
What’s the problem with regular toothpastes?
We’ve all been told, as kids, that we should brush religiously in order to maintain good oral hygiene and health. But that’s only half the picture - it’s also important to choose the right (organic!) toothpaste, in order to ensure that you’re not putting yourself in harm’s way.
(Credits)
Many people don’t know this, but conventional contains tons of dangerous chemicals which can cause serious health issues. In fact, studies show that participants who use Colgate Total toothpastes have more than five times as much triclosan (a chlorinated compound which has been linked to breast cancer) in their urine as those who don’t use it. Bearing that in mind, a much safer alternative would be to opt for organic toothpastes which don’t contain harmful compounds.
What are some of the ingredients you don’t want in your toothpaste?
#1: Triclosan
We’ve mentioned earlier that this compound has been linked to breast cancer, but that’s not all. There’s also evidence that triclosan disrupts hormones; it also impairs muscle contractions and slows blood circulation. Plus, those who have higher concentrations of this compound in their bodies are likely to experience compromised immune system functions, making them more susceptible to allergies and hay fever. Triclosan has been banned from hand soaps and body washes by America’s FDA; many are pushing for it to similarly be prohibited from toothpaste.
#2: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
SLS is a chemically processed soap which allows shampoos, detergents, and toothpaste to generate suds, foam, and lather. When used in large doses, this soap irritates the skin; more specifically, toothpastes containing SLS are known to inflame the tissues in the mouth and cause painful cankers.
#3: FD&C Blue 1
This synthetic food colouring dye, which is produced using petroleum, is typically added to toothpaste to give it its bright blue stripes. FD&C Blue 1 is known to enter our bloodstreams through mucous membranes, and there have been several reports of toxicity (including death) which have been associated with the use of this colouring dye. Because of the lack of studies done on FD&B Blue 1, it is widely considered to be unsafe.
Where to get organic toothpaste
There are plenty articles that will teach you how to make organic toothpastes at home - whilst these may not lather or taste the same as conventional toothpastes, bear in mind that the act of brushing your teeth is what helps get rid of plaque, and that you don’t actually need your toothpaste to foam up.
Alternatively, there are also plenty of organic toothpaste brands, such as Dr Organics from the UK. This award-winning healthcare and skincare company carries an Aloe Vera Toothpaste and a Tea Tree Toothpaste, both of which help to soothe and restore the gums, and protect them from bacteria (without using any harmful chemicals or ingredients!)
(Credits)
Many people don’t know this, but conventional contains tons of dangerous chemicals which can cause serious health issues. In fact, studies show that participants who use Colgate Total toothpastes have more than five times as much triclosan (a chlorinated compound which has been linked to breast cancer) in their urine as those who don’t use it. Bearing that in mind, a much safer alternative would be to opt for organic toothpastes which don’t contain harmful compounds.
What are some of the ingredients you don’t want in your toothpaste?
#1: Triclosan
We’ve mentioned earlier that this compound has been linked to breast cancer, but that’s not all. There’s also evidence that triclosan disrupts hormones; it also impairs muscle contractions and slows blood circulation. Plus, those who have higher concentrations of this compound in their bodies are likely to experience compromised immune system functions, making them more susceptible to allergies and hay fever. Triclosan has been banned from hand soaps and body washes by America’s FDA; many are pushing for it to similarly be prohibited from toothpaste.
#2: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
SLS is a chemically processed soap which allows shampoos, detergents, and toothpaste to generate suds, foam, and lather. When used in large doses, this soap irritates the skin; more specifically, toothpastes containing SLS are known to inflame the tissues in the mouth and cause painful cankers.
#3: FD&C Blue 1
This synthetic food colouring dye, which is produced using petroleum, is typically added to toothpaste to give it its bright blue stripes. FD&C Blue 1 is known to enter our bloodstreams through mucous membranes, and there have been several reports of toxicity (including death) which have been associated with the use of this colouring dye. Because of the lack of studies done on FD&B Blue 1, it is widely considered to be unsafe.
Where to get organic toothpaste
There are plenty articles that will teach you how to make organic toothpastes at home - whilst these may not lather or taste the same as conventional toothpastes, bear in mind that the act of brushing your teeth is what helps get rid of plaque, and that you don’t actually need your toothpaste to foam up.
Alternatively, there are also plenty of organic toothpaste brands, such as Dr Organics from the UK. This award-winning healthcare and skincare company carries an Aloe Vera Toothpaste and a Tea Tree Toothpaste, both of which help to soothe and restore the gums, and protect them from bacteria (without using any harmful chemicals or ingredients!)