Eliminating Toxins From Your Home & Your Body
Is your body overloaded by toxins? Chances are, in this day and age, your body is working extra hard to filter out the myriad of chemicals our bodies are unknowingly subjected to. If you’re dealing with chronic health issues or unwanted symptoms resulting from gut issues, it’s even more important to audit the environment you’re in to eliminate toxins wherever you can. Even if you’re symptom-free and feeling pretty good, if your body is over loaded with toxins, it starts to shut down normal operations, causing health issues down the road. So what are some of the signs that your body may be dealing with an overload of toxins?
Here are some of the most common signs:
Fatigue and low energy levels: Feeling constantly tired and lacking energy.
Digestive issues: Such as bloating, constipation, diarrhea, or other gastrointestinal problems like leaky gut and autoimmune conditions.
Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight.
Skin problems: Including acne, rashes, eczema, or other skin irritations.
Brain fog and difficulty concentrating.
Joint and muscle pain or stiffness.
Headaches or migraines.
Increased sensitivity to environmental chemicals, fragrances, or certain foods.
Frequent allergies or sensitivities.
Mood disturbances: Such as irritability, anxiety, or depression.
Thankfully, there are simple and effective adjustments you can make to reduce the number of toxins you’re in contact with each day. Below are 6 things you can change that will make a huge impact on your long-term health and to create a healthier environment so that your body can heal and thrive where it should be able to - your home!
First up, and I will argue this is the MOST important one - water. Your blood, organs, and brain all need good quality water. Chances are, unless you’re living in a home that sources water from a well on the property, you’re drinking water processed in a plant. Processed with chemicals, riddled with contaminants, and traces of heavy metals.
1. Water filters for cleaner, safer drinking, showering, and cooking:
The water we consume, cook with, and shower in often contains various contaminants like chemicals known to cause cancer, asthma, skin conditions, or disrupt hormones, and heavy metals that pose health risks and increase our toxic load. Investing in a reliable water filtration system like the Berkey water system or the Aquabliss SF500 shower head filter are effective ways to ensure that you are drinking, showering in, and cooking with clean and safe water. Look for water filters certified to remove a wide range of contaminants, including chlorine, arsenic, lead, mercury, pesticides, and pharmaceutical residues amongst others. Test your water quality on EWG.org’s Tap Water Database (be prepared to be appalled, as most city water is riddled with contaminants!)
2.Embrace natural cleaning products:
Traditional cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that can release toxins into the air and leave behind residues on surfaces. Swap those chemical-laden products for natural alternatives that are equally effective. Look for cleaning solutions that are plant-based, biodegradable, and free from harmful substances such as phthalates and chlorine bleach. With natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and essential oils, you can tackle dirt, grime, and bacteria without compromising your health.
2. Purify the air you breathe:
Indoor air pollution can be a silent threat, impacting your respiratory health and overall well-being. To combat this, invest in air purifiers with HEPA filters to remove airborne pollutants, including dust, pet dander, pollen, and mold spores. Additionally, consider incorporating indoor plants known for their air-purifying properties, such as snake plants, peace lilies, and aloe vera. These green companions will not only enhance the aesthetics of your home but also act as natural air filters, producing fresh oxygen while reducing harmful toxins
3. Replace plastics, non-stick surfaces, and aluminum foil:
Plastics have become an integral part of our lives, but they can leach harmful chemicals like bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates into our food and drinks. Minimize your exposure by replacing plastic food containers and water bottles with glass, stainless steel, or BPA-free options. Similarly, choose natural fiber alternatives like cotton or bamboo for kitchen towels, dishcloths, and food wraps (aluminum imparts heavy metals on the food it touches!). By reducing your reliance on plastics, you'll protect both your health and the environment. In addition - toss those teflon and non-stick cookware and grab an inexpensive ceramic-coated one! Even better if you have the patience for learning to cook with stainless steel!
4. Create a non-toxic sleep sanctuary:
Your body goes into healing mode when you sleep, so it’s incredibly important to create a toxin-free sleep sanctuary. Start by choosing an organic mattress made from natural materials like organic cotton or latex, which will prevent off-gassing of harmful chemicals. Opt for organic bedding and pillows made from natural fibers like bamboo or organic cotton, that don’t have synthetic dyes and materials. By investing in these non-toxic sleep essentials, you'll promote better sleep and wake up feeling so much better. Additionally, opening bedroom windows on a sunny day and airing out the room can freshen the room and inhibit bacteria growth.
5. Go green with Personal Care Products:
Many hygiene products, such as shampoos, soaps, deodorants, and cosmetics contain toxic ingredients like parabens, sulfates, aluminum, and synthetic fragrances. Make a point to toss these, or replace them with greener alternatives as you run low on them. Look for ingredients that sound familiar and labels that indicate the absence of harmful chemicals. I try to opt for products with plant-based ingredients that nourish and protect your skin and hair rather than strip it of it’s natural oils. You can even experiment with DIY beauty recipes using simple ingredients from your kitchen pantry. Pinterest is full of ideas!
I know it seems like a lot, so take it one thing at a time! Slowly swapping out the things that are increasing your body’s toxic load will allow your body to work more optimally over time! It’s worth it, I promise!
Have questions or want to chat about how your your body may be reacting to environmental toxins? Drop my a line!
Be well,