How Toxic Fashion is Making Women Sick & What We Can Do About It with Alden Wicker

Many of us are aware of the ethical minefield of fast fashion—from the labor issues to the environmental damage. But did you know that the clothes in your closet could be making you sick? In this episode, I’m joined by award-winning investigative journalist Alden Wicker, author of To Die For: How Toxic Fashion is Making Us Sick and How We Can Fight Back . Alden’s deep dive into the world of fashion goes beyond the well-known stories of sweatshops and waste to uncover the hidden impact of unregulated toxic chemicals in our clothing on our personal health. From flame retardants and PFAS to endocrine disruptors, Alden and I explore the unseen dangers lurking in everyday garments and how these chemicals are connected to a myriad of health problems, from skin issues to autoimmune diseases, fertility challenges, and even cancer. We’ll talk about why these chemicals are allowed in the first place, what the fashion industry isn’t telling you, and how you can protect yourself and your family—without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for practical tips to detox your wardrobe or want to learn more about the systemic changes needed in the fashion industry, this episode will empower you to make safer, more informed choices when it comes to your clothes. Episode Highlights: How Alden Wicker got into sustainable fashion journalism—starting with a troubling case of Delta flight attendant uniforms making women sick. The toxic truth: What chemicals are lurking in our clothing, and why is no one talking about it? How these chemicals are affecting not just the environment but also our bodies. From rashes to reproductive health issues—how clothing can impact autoimmune diseases and fertility. Why women are disproportionately affected by toxic chemicals in fashion, and the industry’s gender gap in addressing the problem. Practical tips: How to choose safer clothing, avoid harmful chemicals, and shop smarter without spending a fortune. Beyond your wardrobe: How you can join collective actions and advocacy to help push for systemic change. Alden’s advice to her younger self: Simplifying health and happiness. Resources & Links: Alden Wicker’s Website: EcoCult.com Safer States: saferstates.org Toxic-Free Future: toxicfreefuture.org Follow Alden on Instagram : @ecocultcom Connect with Dr. Aviva Romm: @dr.avivaromm If this episode resonated with you, consider taking action by sharing it with a friend or leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform. Don’t miss out on future episodes! Make sure to subscribe to On Health for more conversations like this one, bringing you expert insights and empowering you to take control of your health and well-being. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements