Propylene Glycol: Side Effects & Dangers
Summary
Propylene glycol is a petroleum-based chemical commonly found in antifreeze that also appears in many processed foods, cosmetics, and personal care products. While not considered highly toxic, it is associated with allergic reactions, skin sensitivities, and respiratory irritation, particularly when inhaled through electronic cigarettes. Dr. Berg recommends avoiding it in consumable and topical products by carefully reading ingredient labels.
Key Takeaways
- Propylene glycol is a petroleum-based chemical originally used in antifreeze due to its ability to lower freezing points
- It is found in a wide range of everyday products including ice cream, frozen desserts, cosmetics, toothpaste, Windex, and electronic cigarettes
- Many unexplained food allergies and skin sensitivities in people who consume processed foods may be linked to propylene glycol
- Inhaling propylene glycol through electronic cigarettes can cause dry cough and lung irritation
- The chemical is considered non-accumulative in the body
- Those following a ketogenic diet already avoid processed foods and are therefore less likely to consume it through food sources
- Always read product labels to identify and avoid propylene glycol in foods, cosmetics, and personal care items
Details
What Is Propylene Glycol?
Propylene glycol is a synthetic, petroleum-derived chemical best known as a component of antifreeze, where it functions by lowering the freezing point of liquids. This same property makes it useful in the food industry, particularly in processed foods like ice creams and frozen desserts to improve texture and stability.
Where Is It Found?
Propylene glycol appears across a surprisingly broad range of products:
- Food: Ice cream, frozen desserts, and other processed food items
- Personal care: Certain toothpastes and cosmetics
- Household products: Windex and similar cleaning agents
- Electronic cigarettes: Used as a carrier fluid for vapor
Health Concerns
Allergies and Skin Sensitivity Dr. Berg suggests that propylene glycol is a likely culprit behind many unexplained allergic reactions and skin sensitivities, particularly in individuals who regularly consume processed foods or use cosmetics containing the ingredient. It is noted as being irritating to the skin.
Respiratory Irritation When propylene glycol is inhaled via electronic cigarettes, it can irritate the respiratory tract, leading to dry cough and lung discomfort. This is considered one of the more direct and concerning exposure routes.
Overall Toxicity Propylene glycol is not described as one of the most toxic substances available, and it is noted to be non-accumulative, meaning it does not build up in the body over time. However, the frequency of exposure across multiple product categories makes avoidance worthwhile.
Practical Recommendations
- Limit exposure by avoiding processed foods that list propylene glycol as an ingredient
- Check labels on cosmetics and toothpaste, as these are easy-to-overlook sources
- Avoid electronic cigarettes that use propylene glycol as a base fluid
- Individuals already following a ketogenic diet or whole foods diet will naturally reduce food-based exposure due to the elimination of most processed products