Toxins…. You know they are everywhere. You know they are dangerous. But do you know how to reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals? There are actually some simple changes you can make right now to reduce your exposure to toxins. Read on to find out how.
Pitch the Plastic
Plastic can leach endocrine disrupting chemicals into a person’s bloodstream and cause all sorts of problems, from cancer to birth defects. But there is a simple solution—use less plastic, of course! Purchase inexpensive, reusable fabric or canvas grocery bags when you shop, carry filtered water from you fridge in stainless steel travel cups, and store your leftovers in glass containers.
Junk The Junk Food
Junk Food is highly processed and is often stored in plastic packaging. Junk food also contains harmful and potentially toxic ingredients like heart-unhealthy trans fats, heavily refined grains (white bread anyone?), excessive sodium (so that they can stay on the shelf for a really really really long time), and sickeningly-sweet high fructose corn syrup.
Can The Cans
Canned goods are often lined with Bisphenol A (also known as BPA), a potentially harmful chemical that simulates hormones. BPA has been linked to obesity and even cancer, and may be particularly harmful to children. Skip canned items, and opt for fresh whenever possible. And if you are still clinging to those reusable polycarbonate plastic containers, toss them after a while and avoid microwaving. Plastic can break down from over use and exposure to high temperatures, and expose your food and beverages to BPA.
Just Say No To Receipts
Cash register receipts contain 1000 times more BPA than the average food can, and can enter your bloodstream through your skin. Who knew?! Say NO to receipts for items you know you will not be returning, shop at stores like Target and Lowes that keep track of your purchases through your credit card, and if you must handle a receipt, be sure to quickly file it away and wash your hands directly after.
Curtains For Curtains
Ever notice that nasty smell that pollutes your bathroom when you open a new PVC shower curtain? No one wants to breath stinky air while they are getting clean. Switch to a washable cloth shower curtain and you will happily miss out on all those toxic fumes.
Resist Bacterial Resistance
Triclosan can be found in a number of different products we use everyday—antibacterial soaps, toothpaste, even clothing! But triclosan is a hormone disrupter that has been linked to certain cancers, antibiotic resistance, and attention deficit/hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Avoid any product that contains the word “Antibacterial” and be sure to read ingredient lists! You can also check out the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep database to look up your favorite products.
It’s not possible to eliminate all toxins from your life, but if you follow these six simple steps, you will be on your way to a less toxic existence. Here’s to your health!
Resources:
http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-14857/9-tips-to-use-less-plastic-eat-better-keep-toxins-out-of-your-body.html
https://www.yahoo.com/health/toxins-at-home-how-to-c1407880609986/photo-triclosan-photo-1407879359641.html
http://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/sya-bpa/
http://www.rd.com/health/diet-weight-loss/4-most-harmful-ingredients-in-packaged-foods/
