House dust could make us fat. Scientists say that people should keep their house clean to avoid putting on weight. The scientists did research on how dust affects mice. They collected dust samples from 11 different houses. Dust from nine of the houses made the mice fatter. The scientists said the house dust changed the hormones in the mice so that they made more fat in their body. The scientists said we breathe in and swallow small amounts of dust. A researcher said amounts of dust as small as three micrograms made the mice fatter.
Dust contains chemicals called EDCs. These can change or copy the body's hormones. They are in sofas and carpets and some plastics, to make them bend more. They are also in cosmetics, food packaging, and household cleaners. EDCs are everywhere in most houses. Researchers say they can affect our health. Children are at most risk and can lead to learning disabilities. Studies also show that EDCs can increase the risk of cancer and infertility. The researchers said there was a need to look at all the things we make so that they do not make us unhealthy.