Active Quote by Sandra Steingraber
“... we find ourselves facing a rising tide of biologically active, synthetic organic chemicals. Some tinker with our hormones. Some attach themselves to our chromosomes and trigger mutations. Some cripple the immune system. Some light up our genes and so enhance the production of certain enzymes. If we could metabolize these chemicals into completely benign breakdown products and excrete them, they would pose less of a hazard. Instead, a good many of them accumulate.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Living Downstream, 1997
Synthetic chemicals accumulate in bodies, causing health risks; detoxifying them could reduce harm.
In simple terms: Chemicals build up, harming health; detox helps.
Key Takeaway
Seek ways to reduce chemical exposure.
Themes
environment
health
toxicity
Mood
concerned
urgent
Type
policy
educational
When to use this quote
- industrial pollution
- personal care products
- food additives
Key Concepts
biology
public policy
Questions to Reflect On
- What steps can you take to limit exposure?
- How can society balance technological benefits with health safety?
A Different Perspective
Complete detoxification may be unrealistic due to essential chemicals.
