You know the routine: Your clothes are dirty. You throw them in the washing machine. They come out clean…right? But what if your laundry detergent is hiding a dangerous toxin that can take a serious toll on your health and the health of your family? A recent study conducted by David Steinman of the Green Patriot Working Group asked that very question and found that of the 20 most popular laundry detergent brands (both conventional and “natural” products), 13 contained detectable traces of a toxic byproduct called 1,4-dioxane.

A known carcinogen (cancer-causing agent), 1,4-dioxane is used in many popular cleaning and personal care products and has been linked to liver disease, cancer and other serious health conditions in humans. However, it is one of thousands of contaminants not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). According to the study, the conventional brands were the worst offenders—with Procter and Gamble’s Tide® topping the list at 55 parts per million (ppm)—but even a couple of the natural brands were not entirely free of 1,4-dioxane. If anything, the information serves as a wake-up call for consumers nationwide to pay close attention to what might be hiding in the products we use every day.

Curious about your detergent? See the complete results of the study here. And be sure to visit Brenda Watson’s Detox Strategy for simple tips on how to reduce your exposure to harmful toxins.

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You asked for them. We listened! Now when you visit the ReNew Life blog, you can check out our brand new Recipes & Diet section to view more than 100 healthful and delicious recipes compiled by our expert nutrition team to help you lose weight, improve digestion and live healthier every day.

From beverages and shakes to lunches, dinners, sides and more, you’ll find plenty of mouthwatering options the whole family will enjoy—plus helpful tips and oodles of interesting food facts. Not only that, but our culinary experts will be adding new recipes periodically to provide you with fresh inspiration. So what will it be? Whole-grain French Toast with Yogurt and Bananas? Chicken Caesar Salad? Or maybe a slice of irresistible Carrot Spice Snack Cake? The possibilities are endless!

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