Community | April 08, 2010 | 1 comment

FDA: Antibacterial soaps not 'healthier' than regular soap

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Antibacterial soaps and body washes containing the chemical triclosan don’t have extra health benefits compared with regular soap and water, the Food and Drug Administration said today on its Web site.

In light of animal studies raising questions about triclosan’s safety — the chemical may affect hormone regulation -- the FDA has been reviewing its widespread use. Triclosan, a commonly used pesticide, also has been added to toothpaste, computer keyboards, clothing, shopping bags and hundreds of other consumer products.

There’s also some concern that triclosan contributes to bacteria’s increasing resistance to antibiotics, the FDA said. The Environmental Protection Agency, meanwhile, is updating its own assessment of triclosan and has said it plans to work with the FDA to “better characterize the endocrine-related effects” of the compound.

http://featuresblogs.chicagotribune.com/features_julieshealthclub/2010/04/fda-an...
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    Community,   Green,   Current Tonight,   Science
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    Soap Antibacterial triclosan
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1 comment // FDA: Antibacterial soaps not 'healthier' than regular soap

  • Kurta
    • +1
      Kurta  
    • Our germophobic society is playing with fire when you consider how the use of antibacterial products weakens the immune system. Washing your hands in plain water actually removes a surprising amount of bacteria.

    • 2 years ago
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