Help! My House is Making Me Sick!

There is nothing like kicking your feet up and relaxing in the comfort of your own home...but what if the chemical used in that couch you're sitting on is actually making you sick? Here are three things in your home that may be preventing you from living healthier.
 
*Nonstick cookware—These pans that make cleanup time lickety-split contain harmful chemicals called perfluorochemicals, which have been shown to cause a weak immune system, amongst other health problems. To avoid potential illness, experts recommend replacing pans with stainless steel or cast iron options, or try new nonstick pans that do not contain PFCs.
 
*Yucky tap water—Every region is different, and some have tap water that is proven safe to drink. But sip water from the faucet only after you have requested a community water report from the Environmental Protection Agency. They are required to record what is in your water, and they also have to make it accessible to the public. You can also test your own water with an at-home kit, such as Everpure.
 
*Chemical flame retardants in bedding and furniture—Several products in your home include chemicals called PBDEs, which slows the rate that something will burn. But these seemingly helpful chemicals have also shown to lead to memory and attention problems in children. They are also not too great for the environment. Fix this problem by keeping your home dust-free, since PBDEs like to attach to dust bunnies. You can also start to slowly replace items in your home that contain PBDEs, starting with your bedroom. Mattress pads and pillowcases often contain these chemicals.

Let us know if you've made any of these changes, and if you've noticed a difference! [CNN]