The Antiperspirant Debate

The concern surrounding the use of antiperspirants has been debated for years. Scientists have wrestled with a possible link in the product’s key ingredient, aluminum, and its connection to several major diseases. In a recent broadcast, CBS brought forth the issue once again, but for many people the question still remains – are they safe?

Antiperspirants contain aluminum because it has the ability to form a temporary plug within the sweat duct that stops the flow of sweat to the surface. Therefore they reduce the amount an individual sweats as well as helping to reduce odor. The major concern with this process is that the body absorbs whatever is put on the skin. After daily use of antiperspirants for many years, the chances of an illness-related disease due to aluminum build up increases dramatically.

Some diseases that have come out in the aluminum debate are Alzheimer’s and breast cancer. There are also warnings for people who have kidney disorders to avoid aluminum because it is the kidneys that flush out excess metals in the body. If the kidneys are not working properly, there is a chance that the aluminum could build up in the body faster than with the average individual. But it is possible for anyone to have an excessive amount of aluminum – often stored in the brain.

Many individuals see sweating as a negative bodily reaction, but sweating is a natural and necessary activity. It serves to cool and lubricate the skin, especially in areas that may rub against other areas of skin, such as under the arms. Sweat glands are also utilized in the body’s natural cleansing process, so to restrict sweat means that toxins can get trapped in the skin instead of being released.

There are many choices on the market for natural deodorants, which only fight odor, they do not block sweat. If an individual is concerned about excessive sweating, they should see a health practitioner because it may be caused by an imbalance in the body. Regular exercise and bi-yearly cleansing can help maintain a normal and healthy amount of bodily sweat. Be sure to stop by your local Down to Earth store and check out the natural deodorant and cleansing products available.