There is a trend that is taking place in many parts of the world and it is really having an impact on people’s health. At one time, they would eat out regularly but today, they recognize the need to eat healthy and to eat at home. The problem is, there are so many different choices available for eating at home and not all of those choices are going to be ‘healthy choices’. That is especially true when it comes to choosing cookware.
What many people tend to overlook is the fact that cookware can actually have an impact on your health. In fact, choosing the right cookware to prepare your food is as important of a decision as choosing the right food that you prepare. Even if you’re eating a ‘healthy diet’, you may still end up with a few health complications if you make the wrong choice with cookware. Here is some of the information from recent research that shows what you should avoid and safer options to consider.
1. Teflon
Teflon is perhaps the lead on the list because it is the most dangerous. Many people choose it because it is nonstick and convenient.
The properties that make Teflon nonstick mean that is coated with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). It is a type of plastic polymer that begins to leach toxins when it is heated up to 572°F. It can lead to flulike symptoms, known as polymer fume fever or sometimes, Teflon flew. It is dangerous to both people and pets.
Teflon also contains perfluorooctanoic acid, which is known to cause a number of different types of cancer, including ovarian, prostate and breast cancer. It is thought that there is such a small amount of PFOA in Teflon cookware that it doesn’t matter but why take a chance?
There are some nonstick cookware that are PTFE and PFOA-free but you can only use it safely when the coating is still intact. It often tends to chip easily and once it chips, it should be discarded.
You can try real cast-iron cookware instead. It’s a safe option that is time-tested, heats well and evenly and it can be made nonstick. It doesn’t put anything toxic into the food and it’s a natural way to increase your iron levels.
2. Aluminum cookware/aluminum foil
Aluminum is used in almost every household. It’s a metal that is easy to find and is lightweight, versatile and strong. There are also some dangers associated with it.
Aluminum is a neurotoxic metal. When people have elevated levels of aluminum in their central nervous system, it could lead to diseases such as ALS and Alzheimer’s. Aluminum cookware is typically coated but that coating tends to chip so you can get toxins in your food.
If you want an alternative, try glass cookware. It doesn’t release toxins into the food when it’s heated and it is also environmentally friendly and durable. It also doesn’t hold onto flavors or smells from the food that you cook. It’s not nonstick, but it is safe.
3. Copper
Copper cookware may look beautiful in the store but it can actually be dangerous when you use it for cooking. Copper is important for our health in small quantities but if you have too much it in your body, you can experience heavy metal poisoning.
When you use copper cookware that is not coated, it can release the copper when you are cooking acidic foods. The coating on copper cookware often contains nickel, which is also toxic.
If you’re looking for a safe alternative to copper, you can try stainless steel. It is lightweight, doesn’t scratch easily and can be seasoned so it is nonstick. It is also going to last a very long time. If you purchase stainless steel cookware, make sure you get food grade stainless steel that doesn’t contain chromium or nickel.
4. Ceramic coated cookware
This may look like a nice option and it may seem safe when you first look at it. After all, if it is 100% ceramic, it is safe for cooking. The problem is, there are typically other materials hiding inside.
When the ceramic coating, which chips easily begins to break down it can leak lead and cadmium into the food. This can eventually lead to lead poisoning, which is one of the most dangerous types of metal poisoning. Some of the symptoms include headaches, abdominal pain, infertility, coma and even death. Even if the coating is leadfree, there are still dangers when the cookware starts chipping.
If you’re looking for a safe alternative, you can use 100% ceramic cookware. It is actually one of the best and safest options available because it is made out of 100% natural materials. It won’t chip or peel, is nonstick and is not toxic. You can even wash it in the dishwasher! The only problem is it is expensive but it will last a long time.