(NaturalNews) It's no secret that common deodorants, while they smell fragrant and have pleasant-sounding names that make people feel as though they are rugged warriors or living in the tropics, are filled with body-damaging chemicals. Namely, aluminum compounds, parabens and phthalates are ingredients in many kinds of antiperspirants and deodorants designed to act as preservatives while also fending off offensive odors. (1)

These chemicals, however, are linked to having unsettling health consequences ranging from increasing the risk of Alzheimer's disease and breast cancers to leading to immune toxicity and irritation. (1)

Sadly, 90 percent of Americans opt to use these chemicals under their armpits on a daily basis. Not only is this habit potentially detrimental to health, but studies have found that their use is only temporary, spurring the ongoing cycle for continued, regular use of such deodorants. (2)

Common deodorants and antiperspirants may actually worsen offensive smell

"The measures we utilize today do not take away the initial source: the odor causing bacteria," said Chris Callewaert, a Ph.D student specializing in microbial ecology at Ghent University. "Deodorants only mask unpleasant odors." He explains that deodorants that also act as antiperspirants may actually be making people smell worse, since they "work" by plugging up sweat glands and dramatically altering a thriving habitat of bacteria that's perfectly normal and necessary for the body. (2)

In fact, his research found that antiperspirants actually increased Actinobacteria, which are responsible for producing that unmistakably strong armpit odor. (2)

Tips to fight armpit odor and still stay healthy

Choose deodorants that do not contain aluminum chlorohydrate, aluminum zirconium or other aluminum compounds, and be aware of the fact that antiperspirants clog up what people are naturally meant to do: sweat. (1)

Steer clear of propylene glycol, parabens and fragrance, since they are also associated with health problems. Opt for effective yet safe options when shopping such as products that contain chamomile, tea tree, coriander or lichen.

Consider making a homemade deodorant using items likely already in the home. For example, a mixture of coconut oil, baking soda, a favorite essential oil and arrowroot (or cornstarch) is said to be effective and certainly safer than most of the chemical-laden ones found in stores. (3)

Sources:

(1) http://www.naturalnews.com

(2) http://www.realclearscience.com

(3) http://www.mindbodygreen.com

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About the author:
A science enthusiast with a keen interest in health nutrition, Antonia has been intensely researching various dieting routines for several years now, weighing their highs and their lows, to bring readers the most interesting info and news in the field. While she is very excited about a high raw diet, she likes to keep a fair and balanced approach towards non-raw methods of food preparation as well. >>> Click here to see more by Antonia