According to the American Lung Association, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is the third leading cause of death in the U.S., causing serious disability and premature death. While smoking is a well-known risk factor, new research shows that the roots of COPD often go back much further—starting in childhood or even infancy.
Asthma, allergies, bronchitis, pneumonia, eczema, and exposure to parental smoking have all been linked to higher risks of developing COPD later in life. These conditions often start early and silently, laying the foundation for future respiratory issues.
The Melaleuca Wellness Guide emphasizes how chemical exposures can affect sensitive lungs. Aerosol cleaning and personal care products create a fine mist of potentially harmful chemicals that are easily inhaled. Switching to non-toxic, non-aerosol options like Melaleuca’s EcoSense® cleaners can help protect your respiratory health.
Surprisingly, skin exposure may also play a role in the development of allergies. Studies show that babies with underdeveloped skin barriers can develop sensitivities when exposed to soap residues—often from baby wipes. Moisturizing and protecting a baby’s skin is one of the first steps in preventing long-term allergic conditions like eczema and asthma.
Melaleuca’s Renew® Intensive Skin Therapy lotion has been clinically shown to relieve the dry, itchy skin associated with eczema—improving hydration and reducing redness, flaking, and irritation.
And when it comes to household cleaning, safer truly is better. A 20-year study tracking over 6,000 people found that regular use of conventional cleaning sprays damaged lung function at rates comparable to smoking a pack of cigarettes daily. EcoSense® products avoid harmful chemicals like bleach, ammonia, phosphates, and quats—and are free of BPA, phthalates, and petroleum solvents.
Protecting your lungs and skin begins with what you use every day. With Melaleuca, it’s easy to make safer choices for the entire family.
~ Richard M Barry