We’re exposed to toxins on a daily basis — the air we breathe, flame retardants in our furniture, pesticides in our foods, and phthalates at every turn. While we can’t fully control our toxin exposure, knowing what to watch out for and what small tweaks we do have control over making is empowering and helpful.
Concerning Chemicals to Watch Out For
One of the most common of these chemicals is BPA, which is found in plastic, like your water bottle, food packaging, or toys. It can even be found in canned goods and receipts. Another popular one we have in abundance is flame retardants. These are put into carpets, electronics, and furniture to keep fires from spreading. While the intentions are good, fire retardants can cause a myriad of health hiccups, as well.
There are pesticides in our food, soil, and water, plus PFAS to help with water and stain resistance. PFAS are in things like Teflon and your takeout wrappers. Phthalates make plastics more durable and come in your personal care products.
And that’s just the short version. But the good news is you can minimize your contact and stay healthy despite this abundance of chemicals around you.
How to Minimize Contact with Toxins
If you want to keep healthy inside and out and avoid health dilemmas down the road, here are tips for keeping your contact with chemicals at a minimum.
Buy organic (as often as you can)
Foods and products that are organic don’t have pesticides. Start by buying organic as much as possible and increase from there. Or reslly get to know your local farmers. Take a look at the Dirty Dozen/Clean 15 list by Googling and taking note of what the “dirtiest” produce items are so you can start by getting those items organic first and foremost. Even better, if you have land, grow your food at home! Download to app “Healthy Living” and use it.
Reduce plastic consumption
Plastics, especially when they come into contact with your food, can release chemicals into your food that go straight into your body. Switch to glass, even if you do it over time. This doesn’t have to be “all or nothing” — just starting somewhere is making big strides to a healthier lifestyle.
Make sure your home is well-ventilated
That layer of dust on the entertainment center isn’t just a sign that you’ve been neglecting your chores. That dust can contain tons of chemicals from the products in your home. Clean the dust and use an air filter that helps wipe it out. Use natural cleaners to help you get the job done. You can make these yourself, buy them at just about any store now. Invest in a great vacuum cleaner if you have carpet.
Read the labels
For both the things you eat and the personal care products you use, take time to review the labels. Many personal care products contain things like formaldehyde and lead, which you’re slathering on your skin. Remember everything you put ON your body eventually ends up IN your body. Choose wisely when you’re shopping to rid yourself of more chemical cocktails.
