Searching for products?

Caution: Chemicals in Your Clothing Might Be Causing Hypertension

Have you ever considered the health impact of your clothing? Most people don’t, and your doctor has probably never mentioned it. However, the chemicals in your clothing can be terrible for your health and blood pressure.

American Airlines and Delta have both received publicity over the toxic airline uniforms provided to their employees. Many of these employees reported numerous health issues from wearing said uniforms. This isn’t an isolated incident or a mistake of the manufacturer. The U.S. doesn’t have strong regulations for the clothing manufacturing process. 

It’s important to be cautious when choosing your wardrobe. Many of these toxic chemicals found in clothes could be an underlying cause of your high blood pressure. 

Common chemicals in clothing

Throughout the manufacturing process, producers often treat textiles with toxic chemicals. But how do these chemicals get into your body?  

  • Skin absorption: Your skin is highly permeable and can’t always protect you from outside toxins. 
  • Inhalation: Some chemicals can release into the air, which you can inhale. 
  • Water and food contamination: These toxins can get into your body indirectly through the contamination of water and food supply. 

Exposure to toxins commonly found in clothing can lead to health problems, including high blood pressure. As a consumer, it’s essential to educate yourself on the dangers of these chemicals to reduce your exposure and make the best choices for your heart health.

Pesticides

Your favorite comfy cotton t-shirt could be a health threat. Cotton is a crop often grown in soil treated with harmful pesticides such as Roundup. Glyphosate is the toxic active ingredient in these pesticides. This chemical was previously considered safe and only harmful to pests. However, as these pesticides have become more widely used in the past several decades, it’s clear that they have damaging health consequences.

New research is showing the dangers of glyphosate exposure. In 2015, the World Health Organization designated glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic in humans.” Environmental research supports that chronic low-dose exposure to glyphosate can cause health issues – and cancer isn’t the only concern.

Pesticides primarily affect human health by disrupting the gut microbiome. Your gut contains a delicate balance of bacteria that support the health of your intestinal lining. This lining acts as a protective barrier against pathogens and foreign invaders. Foreign invaders can enter your bloodstream when the microbiome is out of balance. This affects your immune system, causes inflammation, and increases blood pressure.

These days, farmers spray conventional cotton with pesticides. These chemicals can remain in the cotton, even throughout the manufacturing process. Fortunately, you can choose to purchase organic cotton clothing grown without pesticides or chemicals.

VOCs

VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are a group of dangerous chemicals in many products that can release toxins into the air. They include solvents often used in textile production. But these chemicals don’t just immediately off-gas into the air and disappear. They’re more likely to slowly release into the air over a long period. This can cause chronic exposure through inhalation.

Higher concentrations of VOCs, such as formaldehyde, are often found in clothing stores and storage areas. People working in these environments often experience health issues. VOC exposure can raise the risk of high blood pressure. This likely happens due to oxidative stress or increased dangerous free radicals floating throughout the body. Oxidative stress is one of the main underlying causes of high blood pressure. 

The worst part? No matter how many times you wash your clothing, there’s often no way to ensure the elimination of these toxic chemicals. The only solution is to make sure your clothes are VOC-free.

PFAS

PFAS is short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, which are synthetic chemicals widely used in many products, including certain types of clothing. These chemicals are often used as a water-repellant coating in performance gear, such as raincoats and snow boots.

These are also called “forever chemicals” because they’re resilient to breakdown. PFAS have been found in our drinking water. Even more terrifying, they’re found in the blood of people worldwide.  They can rapidly spread through the environment, making them difficult to contain. That waterproof coating on your rain jacket can quickly end up in the water supply and then your body. 

PFAS exposure is linked to many health conditions. PFAS can cause dysfunction of the liver, kidneys, immune system, reproductive system, and more. Research supports that PFAS exposure can cause higher blood pressure.

The use of PFAS in clothing needs to stop. Contamination of our food and water supply poses a significant threat to human health. These “forever chemicals” will continue to build up in the environment and remain there until companies decide to stop using them. You can use your power as a consumer to choose products that are PFAS-free.

Azo Dyes

Azo dyes are another common toxin for dyeing jeans and other types of clothing. They’re often used to dye fabric at a low cost. However, the trade-off is your health.

Azo dyes are possibly carcinogenic. They can also cause inflammation, a huge contributing factor to heart disease and high blood pressure. Azo dyes are often water-soluble, meaning they can easily absorb through the skin. In addition to their direct effects on human health, these dyes are poorly biodegradable. They’re polluting the environment by contaminating the soil and water supply.

European countries have appropriately banned the use of these dyes. However, many “fast fashion” companies still use them. It’s essential to protect yourself and the environment from these toxic dyes. To avoid azo dyes, only purchase clothing that is naturally dyed by plants, or labeled as “undyed”.

Next steps

The clothing at your favorite store probably contains toxic chemicals that can affect your blood pressure. Because clothing production is so poorly regulated, make informed decisions about what you decide to purchase and wear.

Go with organic options for everything, not just for your food.  These days, the use of pesticides is out of control. Choosing organic clothing is the only way to ensure that you’re not exposed to fabrics contaminated with glyphosate.

At Natural Heart Doctor, our favorite brand is Pact. Their products are toxin-free and manufactured with 100 percent organic cotton. Pact cares about how their clothing manufacturing process affects human health and the health of our environment and soil. 

Remember, we’re all on this planet together. When fewer toxic products contaminate the environment, we’ll have better soil, water, and food. Entire populations will benefit! As a consumer, you can make conscious choices that will not only directly affect your blood pressure, but improve the heart health of generations to come.

Eat Well · Live Well · Think Well 


Medical Review 2022: Dr. Lauren Lattanza NMD

In order to live well, one must eat well.

Get the Natural Heart Doctor approved Diet and discover how to eat for your 100 Year Heart.

Work With Us

Discover how we can help you achieve your 100 Year Heart.

About Dr. Lauren Lattanza NMD, FACC

Dr. Lattanza Office Visit with Patient

Dr. Lauren Lattanza Fees

20 Minute Virtual Call: $250

Initial In-Person Appointment:

Follow Up In-Person Appointment:       

As a Naturopathic Physician, I am trained to treat the whole person and get to the root cause of disease.

I went to Arizona State University where I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a depth in physiology and minor in Spanish. After my undergraduate degree I was working on prerequisite classes towards medical school, which is when I came to learn that my values identified best with the principles of naturopathic medicine. I knew that I wanted to help patients identify the causes of disease and be able to offer treatments which would improve their health rather than simply treating symptoms.

I dedicated the next 4 years to the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, Arizona where I attained my Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine. I served as Class President all 4 years, Board of Trustees – Student Trustee, spoke as the Club President for our branch of Toastmasters, and was voted by my peers and attending physicians to earn the Outstanding Leadership Award for the Class of 2020. Throughout medical school I took it upon myself to work alongside MDs, DOs, chiropractors, and functional medicine practitioners in addition to naturopathic physicians.

As a Spanish speaking student, I was able to volunteer with community clinics around Phoenix and provide free healthcare to low-income families. Due to this combined exposure, I came to find my passion in treating cardiometabolic and digestive disorders that are all too common, yet largely preventable. I took the opportunity to learn the broad spectrum of healthcare so I can ensure that I am able to provide my patients with the best options.

About Dr. Jack Wolfson DO, FACC

Dr. Wolfson Office Visit with Patient

Dr. Jack Wolfson Fees

30 Minute Virtual Call: $1500

Initial In-Person Appointment:

Follow Up In-Person Appointment:       

Dr. Jack Wolfson is a board-certified cardiologist, Amazon best-selling author, husband, father, and the nation’s #1 Natural Heart Doctor.

For more than two decades, more than one million people have enjoyed the warmth, compassion, and transformational power of his natural heart health courses and events.

Dr. Wolfson is the founder of Natural Heart Doctor Scottsdale, his heart health practice in Arizona, and Natural Heart Doctor, an online resource center with natural health information. Doctors from across the globe reach out to Dr. Wolfson for training and education in holistic health practices.

He has been named one of America’s Top Functional Medicine Doctors and is a five-time winner of the Natural Choice Awards as a holistic M.D. Dr. Wolfson’s work has been covered by more than 100 media outlets, including NBC, CNN, and the Washington Post. His book “The Paleo Cardiologist: The Natural Way to Heart Health” was an Amazon #1 best-seller.

Dr. Wolfson and his wife Heather have four children and are committed to making the world a better place to live. They provide for those in need (including animals) and support natural health causes through their philanthropic efforts.

Chiropractic

Our chiropractor is an expert at adjustments and holistic chiropractic care and works closely in conjunction with the other health care experts at Natural Heart Doctor.

Call (480) 535-6844 for details and scheduling.

IV Therapy

We use specially formulated natural vitamins and minerals that are injected into a vein to prevent or treat dehydration. Ideal for people in Arizona.

Call (480) 535-6844 for details and scheduling.

Acupuncture

Stimulate your body’s natural healing abilities and promote physical and emotional well-being with acupuncture at Natural Heart Doctor.

Call (480) 535-6844 for details and scheduling.

Health Coaching

Our health coaches use evidence based skillful conversation, clinical interventions, and strategies to engage you actively and safely in health behavior changes.

Call (480) 535-6844 for details and scheduling.

Cardio Tests

We use the most advanced testing in the world to assess heart health and to identify the root cause of your health issues.

Call (480) 535-6844 for details and scheduling.

Office Visits

Schedule an office visit with one of our cardiologists, holistic physicians, chiropractor, or health coaches.

Call (480) 535-6844 for details and scheduling.

Frequently Asked Questions

I’d like to receive an online second opinion from Natural Heart Doctor. What do I do next?

You can initiate a second opinion online through our website at any time. To begin, select the team member you’d like to speak with and open an account.

Click here for cardiologist Dr. Jack Wolfson.

Naturopathic Medical Doctor Dr. Lauren Lattanza. Get details.

Naturopathic Medical Doctor Dr. Tonia Rainier. Get details.

Click here for  Natural Heart Doctor Health Coach.

Alternatively, you can email health@naturalheartdoctor.com. A member of our care team will help guide you through the process of starting a second opinion.

What is the cost of a Natural Heart Doctor Online Second Opinion?

The cost for most second opinions varies by team member. This fee includes information collection, a phone or video consultation, a second opinion from a Natural Heart Doctor specialist and guidance throughout the process from your personal Care Team at Natural Heart Doctor.

Cardiologist Dr. Jack Wolfson’s Second Opinion Fee is $1500.

Holistic Physician’s Dr. Lauren Lattanza’s Second Opinion Fee is $250.

Naturopathic Physician Dr. Tonia Rainier’s Second Opinion Fee is $250.

Note: We apply the Online Second Opinion Call fee as a credit to any future consultations with Natural Heart Doctor, should you choose them.

Will my insurance cover the cost of a Natural Heart Doctor Online Second Opinion?

Most likely, no. Most health plans do not cover online second opinions or consultations. You are responsible for the cost of our second opinion. Natural Heart Doctor cannot file a claim with your insurance carrier, nor can we provide a procedure (CPT) code for this service.

What is the timeline to receive an online second opinion?

We do our best to schedule your second opinion as quickly as possible. Typically, it takes 5 to 7 business days after your information has been collected to receive your phone or video online second opinion.

What information do you need in advance of our call?

Our office will send you a short questionnaire to complete and return. We DO NOT need your complete medical records.

How many questions can I ask the expert during our call?

You may ask a maximum of five questions. This is to ensure that the expert has sufficient time to devote to each question. All questions must be finalized before your online meeting.

What should I expect to receive once my second opinion is complete?

You will receive a summary of our discussion along with our second opinion. The second opinion will be in written form. After you have reviewed the second opinion, a Natural Heart Doctor clinician will follow up with you by phone to address general medical questions about the information provided in the second opinion.

What if I have follow-up questions for the expert after I have reviewed my second opinion?

If you have a clarifying question about an expert’s response to one of the questions in your second opinion, and the Natural Heart Doctor clinician is unable to address it, then you may request a follow up session for an additional fee. 

Is my medical and payment information secure?

Natural Heart Doctor is strongly committed to protecting the privacy and security of all our patients. Our website meets all federal requirements for protecting personal health information under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). All financial transactions are processed by Natural Heart Doctor securely using industry standard payment processing tools.

I would rather visit Natural Heart Doctor for an in-person appointment. What should I do next?

If you would prefer an in-person appointment at Natural Heart Doctor instead of an online second opinion, please call (480) 535-6844 for details and scheduling.

Can I schedule a follow up appointment with the specialist who provided my online second opinion?

Yes, we’re happy to help you on an extended basis. Our clinician can discuss options with you when presenting our second opinion summary.