A doctor has listed three common bedroom items you should ‘throw out ASAP’.
Our bedrooms aren't just 'where the magic happens' as they ought to also be our sanctuary and place of rest.
After all, we know that banking at least seven to eight hours of sleep per night is considered healthy for our brain function, and can help our immune system, regulate our hormones and even help us manage a healthy weight.
However, according to a leading Harvard and Stanford-trained doctor, the space we're meant to get some shut eye could be brimming with secret hazards, adversely affecting our gut, hormones, sleep and long-term health that even eight hours of kip can't help.
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Taking to Instagram, Dr Saurabh Sethi, a California-based gastroenterologist, has revealed the top three things that he says we should consider chucking out.
Old pillows
In a video posted to his page, the 42-year-old put old pillows at the top of his list, which he reveals can be considered 'old' in as little as 24 months.
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The doc explained that this is because of the nasty things pillows can sponge up in a relatively short space of time, stating: "Pillows accumulate dust mites, sweat and allergens over time.
"If yours is over one to two years old, it is probably time to replace it."
The expert also cited a study that stated mattress and pillow encasings can pose an adverse health risk to children with asthma and other allergies, like house dust mites.
According to The Sleep Foundation, pillows past their prime can also prompt allergic reactions, skin breakouts and even sore muscles, sponging up everything from dust mites to fungus and mold.
Synthetic air fresheners
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The doc then took aim at synthetic air fresheners, which you might be using to eliminate odors and make your home smell fresh and clean.
However, many of these chemical-laden fragrances aren't exactly good for us to be breathing in.
Dr Sethi explained: "Many of these release phthalates and VOCs [volatile organic compounds] linked to respiratory issues and hormonal disruption."
Again citing his science, the medic revealed that one study found synthetic fragrances in household products impact indoor air quality and pose health risks.
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"In one of these studies, 86 percent of air fresheners tested contained phthalates, which are chemicals associated with reproductive harm and asthma," he added before issuing his advice: "Try essential oils instead."
Worn-out mattresses
Last but not least, the doc said to ditch worn-out mattresses.
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"A mattress that is more than seven to 10 years old, can lower sleep quality and cause chronic back pain," he concluded.
Dr Sethi also highlighted another hospital-based study from Lahore that found a link between mattress firmness, duration and lower back pain.
The Sleep Foundation further states you will know when your mattress is past its sell-by date as it might negatively affect your sleep, feel saggy in certain areas, make more noise than usual and/or you wake up with muscle stiffness or allergies.
That, and the biggest giveaway is if you find you sleep better when crashing at friends' houses or in a hotel.
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