We all know that we should be careful about the foods we eat and the products we put on our skin. But what about the everyday toxins we come into contact with? From air pollution to hormone disruptors, these hidden dangers can have a serious impact on our health. So how do we protect ourselves against them? In this post, we'll take a look at some of the most common toxins and offer some tips for avoiding them. Stay safe!
Toxic Soup
The genes that you were born with are only the beginning of how much damage your body can sustain. The environment also has a significant impact on what happens to our bodies later in life, as substances like toxins and chemicals enter into each cell through consumption or contact with other surfaces throughout our bodies' organs. We can also have genetic variations that predispose us to certain conditions. But it’s the things around us (like pollution) that are more likely to make us sick than our genes.
We know that we are living in a world where there are a lot of toxins. Scientists have found 287 chemicals in newborns, and 217 of them can be harmful to the brain. This is worrisome because it means that even from the moment they are born, babies are exposed to these harmful substances. The average adult carries about 700 toxins. We need to figure out how we can minimize this risk.
The United States is one of the most advanced nations in terms of manufacturing and technology, but we still struggle with how to regulate chemicals. There are 80,000 different registered products that haven't even had safety testing by the government. We need to take it upon ourselves to find out what these toxins are and how to minimize their effects.
There are toxic and clean alternatives to everyday items.
Non-Stick Cookware
Non-stick cookware can contain chemicals that release gas when they're heated. This has been linked to different types of cancers like kidney and testicular cancer. It is also one factor in obesity, low birth weight, and preeclampsia.
Healthy and safe options include stainless steel and lead-free ceramic materials such as porcelain or granite. Cast iron skillets are also great for cooking with heat retention properties that last forever.
Antibacterial Soaps and Hand Sanitizers
Hand sanitizers may contain toxic chemicals. Triclosan is an antibacterial ingredient that's been linked to hormone disruption and birth defects. It can also interact with other drugs you're taking, like antibiotics or cholesterol medications - increasing their potency so they work less well by themselves.
However, hand hygiene is vital so we need to look closer at the potential for toxicity of the soaps and sanitizers we’re using by paying attention to the ingredients list. Brands like doTERRA, Everyday, Attitude, and Soap for Goodness Sake are some of the companies that carry clean products.
Another reason it’s better to wash your hands over using hand sanitizer is because your skin has normal bacteria on it that are meant to be there, and these bacteria are protective. Frequent use of hand sanitizers can strip our skin of these good bacteria, meaning we lose some of our natural skin protection.
BPA (Bisphenol A)
Another thing that we're commonly exposed to is BPA. This is found in plastic food containers, water bottles, canned food, and receipts. So when you go to the store, whether you're getting canned food or buying plastic food and drink containers, look for the labels that say they are BPA-free products.
In terms of food containers, try to switch to glass from plastic. Don't heat the plastic. It’s alright if you use it for storage. Still, glass is preferred, but do not put it in the microwave or the dishwasher. Replacing your food containers takes some time. You can do this periodically over time and it will be worth it.
Phthalates
Phthalates are found in products like plastic containers, makeup, children's toys, and shampoo, and has been linked to hormonal changes, birth defects, and even cancer. Phthalates are found in many common household items, so it's important to be aware of where they might be hiding. Checking labels and doing a little research can go a long way in avoiding these harmful chemicals.
Cleaning Solutions
Most people are unaware of the toxic chemicals that are lurking in their cleaning solutions. But the truth is that many common household cleaning products are loaded with dangerous chemicals that can have harmful effects on your health. Fortunately, there are safe and clean alternatives to toxic cleaning solutions. By making the switch to natural cleaners, you can protect yourself and your family from the harmful effects of toxic chemicals. And best of all, natural cleaners are just as effective at getting your home clean and sparkling as their toxic counterparts.
Lawn Care
As any mindful consumer knows, the products you use to care for your lawn have a profound impact on both the environment and your health. Traditional lawn care products rely heavily on chemicals that can seep into your soil and pollute groundwater. You're probably drinking that water. And we all know what happens when we drink too much water - we get bloated and our skin starts to resemble a prune.
But seriously, those chemicals can cause serious health problems for both people and animals. So what's a conscientious consumer to do? Luckily, there are more and more choices available all the time for eco-friendly lawn care products. Look for products that use natural ingredients and avoid harsh chemicals. Your lawn will thank you - and so will your body.
Deodorants
If you think about it, you're putting it right up in where all of your lymph nodes sit. Sweating is good for you - it helps detoxify your body and remove toxins through the pores. In certain situations, like if you're giving an important presentation or going out on a date with someone special (or both!), using products that contain cleaner ingredients can be more effective at reducing body odor and sweat stains than just applying regular old deodorant.
Home Furniture and Air Purifiers
Flame retardants are used in furniture to slow down the burning process and prevent fires. If you're doing any remodeling, make sure that your new pieces do not have these toxic compounds.
The HEPA filter is the key to any good air purifier. The kind that helps remove allergens and other particulates from your home, it's an excellent investment for anyone with respiratory problems or who just wants a cleaner living space.
Water Filtration
One of the best ways to reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals is to install a reverse osmosis water filtration system in your home. This type of system filters out impurities from your drinking water, including many of the toxic chemicals that can be found in tap water. In addition to reducing your exposure to harmful chemicals, reverse osmosis water filtration systems can also improve the taste and quality of your drinking water. If you are concerned about the safety of your drinking water, reverse osmosis water filtration is an excellent option.
Replacing Carpet
Carpet is often seen as a luxurious and comfortable flooring option. However, what many people don't realize is that carpet is one of the most toxic compounds that you can have in your home. Carpets are often made with synthetic materials and chemicals that can off-gas into the air, causing a variety of health problems. Solid hardwood floors are a much safer option, as they are made from natural materials and don't release toxic chemicals into the air. Hardwood floors are also more durable and easier to keep clean, making them a great choice for any home.
Food Ingredients
It's no secret that the food we eat has a direct impact on our health. What you may not know, however, is that many of the ingredients in processed foods can be toxic to your health. Artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives have been linked to a variety of health problems, from headaches and gastrointestinal issues to cancer and birth defects. Even "natural" flavors and ingredients can be problematic, as they may contain toxic chemicals that have been linked to serious health conditions. The best way to avoid these toxic ingredients is to buy fresh, whole foods and cook them yourself. However, if you don't have the time or the ability to do so, there are still options. Many grocery stores now offer a variety of healthy, organic, and non-toxic food options. By reading labels and being aware of what's in your food, you can make sure that you're getting the nutrients you need without exposing yourself to toxic chemicals.
Mattresses
Many people are surprised to learn that mattresses can contain toxic chemicals. These chemicals can release gas into the air, making them potentially harmful to sleep on. However, there are a few options available for those looking for an alternative to traditional mattresses. One option is to look for a mattress made with pure cotton. This type of mattress is free of toxic chemicals and is safe to sleep on. Another option is to choose an organic mattress. These mattresses are made with natural ingredients and are also free of toxic chemicals. It goes without saying that sleeping on a mattress made with toxic chemicals can be harmful to your health, so it is important to be aware of the options available before making a purchase.
Healthy Living App
The Environmental Working Group's (EWG) Healthy Living app is a great tool for anyone looking to get more familiar with the toxins that may be lurking in their everyday products. By simply scanning the barcode of a product, the app will provide users with a list of ingredients, as well as a rating of how toxic each one is. In addition, the app offers tips on how to avoid products that carry toxins and provides links to EWG's website for more information. Whether you're a concerned parent, an eco-conscious shopper, or just looking to live a healthier lifestyle, the EWG healthy living app is a valuable resource.
The easiest way to start making changes in your life is by identifying where you have high levels of toxic load. You could think about this for a moment and then choose one thing from the list that would be most helpful: personal care products, cleaning supplies, or home items?
We hope you’ve found this post helpful as you start to make small changes in your life to reduce your exposure to everyday toxins. Taking small steps is the best way to make a big impact and we want to help you every step of the way. If you’re ready to take the next step, schedule a discovery call with us today. During this call, we can discuss your specific needs and create a plan tailored just for you that will help reduce your toxin exposure while living a healthy and happy life. Thanks for reading!
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DISCLAIMER: The information in this email is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content is for general informational purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/health professional