There are many things that we are used to buying under the influence of exaggerated advertisements or tempting promotions, and maybe just because we
There are many things that we are used to buying under the influence of exaggerated advertisements or tempting promotions, and maybe just because we see others buying them. Therefore, experts advise that we seize the opportunity of the beginning of a new year to make a decision to reconsider our culture and purchasing behaviors, say “no” to useless purchases, and stop wasting money on goods that we may not need and that are likely to cause health, financial or environmental damage.
Here are 10 items from these purchases that you’d better stop buying:
1. Immunity boosters
According to researchers at Ohio State University, there is no scientific evidence that the products that are widely promoted as a treatment for the common cold and immune booster, because they contain vitamin (C), other vitamins and minerals. They can prevent or treat diseases. The easiest way to achieve this is to wash hands with soap and water all the time, sleep soundly, and avoid dehydration.”
According to a study published in 2019, after analyzing 185 webpages that had a huge commercial impact, it brought the global market for immune-boosting supplements to $133 billion until the US National Survey of Health and Nutrition showed that more than 50% of Americans use them “to boost immunity and prevent the common flu, although it is not included in any medical guidelines, is based on flimsy scientific evidence”.
2. Diet soda
Motivated by the desire to reduce sugar and calorie intake, we may prefer diet soda, without realizing that we are exposing ourselves to some health risks. Numerous studies have linked excessive diet soda intake with metabolic syndrome, which often leads to diabetes and heart disease, as well as stroke and dementia.
3. Plastic dinnerware and sandwich bags
Disposable dinnerware wastes money, although their cost sometimes seems low, but they increase over time. Americans alone used about 225 million plastic sandwich bags in 2019, at a cost of $ 380 million.
It is also not environmentally friendly, as it is made of petroleum products and ends up in waste bins. Whereas, ceramic dishes and mugs are available that can be washed and used for years. And paper covered with a wax layer, which is reusable to wrap sandwiches, to save money and protect the environment.
4. Acne treatment
Before deciding to buy an over-the-counter acne treatment, the US Food and Drug Administration warns that some common products for this purpose can cause serious allergic reactions, including narrowing of the throat and swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, which may make the product you buy a cause of exacerbation.
5. Antibacterial soap
Soap that kills bacteria is no more effective than traditional soap and water. In fact, its long-term health risk is more than previously thought, as it contains a chemical called triclosan. (TCS) can enter the bloodstream, leak into the urinary tract, increase the risk of allergies, affect the thyroid gland and even stimulate the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, according to the US Food and Drug Administration. (FDA).
6. Pre-cut fruits and vegetables
The packages of pre-cut fruits and vegetables can seem tempting, possibly to save time and effort. But it is likely to be less fresh and can cost up to 350% more than its fresh, unprocessed counterpart. Experts advises not to buy them unless absolutely necessary, saying, “Unless you are restricted by time, do not pay more money for most pre-prepared fruits and vegetables.”
7. Insecticides and weeds
Not only are pesticides on farms, we also bring them home. A study published in 2009, indicated that “no one ensures full protection from exposure to the effects of the health potential of pesticides, the number of deaths and chronic diseases in the world was due to pesticides, about one million people in 1999” which caused these products damage the kidneys and irritations, the respiratory system and negatively affect the nervous system. This damage can be avoided by using organic pest control products such as boric acid or white vinegar.
8. Air fresheners
A study published in 2017 concluded that, “From a health perspective, these fresheners have been associated with harmful effects, such as migraines, asthma attacks, mucosal symptoms, and infant disease and breathing difficulties,” making their perceived benefits far less than their potential costs for personal and public health, causing concerns. Parallel to second-hand smoke.
9. Vitamins
About half of Americans take a daily multivitamin that costs them $ 5.7 billion a year, according to the National Institutes of Health. Although there is no evidence that it has any positive effect on health, according to Johns Hopkins University. It is beneficial to eat a balanced diet to obtain vitamins and minerals, as studies are almost unanimous as a pure waste of money for most people.
10. Non-stick cookware
It’s tempting that non-stick pots and pans wash easily and save time, but they do cause some concerns if the coating is scratched. The substance that prevents food from sticking to this type of equipment is a chemical coating called (Teflon), when heated to very high temperatures, it may release some carcinogenic gases, so in order to use non-stick cookware safely, and it should be kept from peeling, with low temperature.
