Everyday household cleaning products may be producing unintended consequences for children. According to a study, disinfectants have the ability to change gut bacteria, potentially leading to higher body mass index (BMI).
The study, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, found that those who lived in households where disinfectants were used weekly had a higher risk of being overweight by age 3 than those who lived in houses where eco-friendly substances were used.
Researchers studied the gut microbiota of 757 babies between three and four months old who were a part of the Canadian Health Infant Longitudinal Development cohort, Newsweek reported. Fecal samples were collected and parents were asked how often cleaning products were used in the home. A follow-up was conducted when the children were one and then three years old.
The Emergency Election Sale is now live! Get 30% to 60% off our most popular products today!