On a daily basis, our bodies are exposed to toxic chemicals that are harmful to our physical and mental health. Chemicals in our air, water and food supply impact how we feel and function in this world. While we can’t avoid all sources of exposure, here are some ways to reduce our toxic load.
Eat organic: If cost is an issue, focusing on buying organic on the foods with the highest pesticide counts (strawberries, spinach, peppers, apples, peaches, nectarines, grapes are just a few). Foods that you eat on a daily basis and foods (like meat) that are higher up in the food chain should also be organic.
Avoid BPA: BPA is an industrial chemical that has been used to make certain plastics and resins. It is used to line cans, in plastics and on store receipts. Studies have shown BPA mimics the structure of estrogen influencing cell repair, fetal development and reproduction. To cut your exposure, refuse store receipts, avoid canned foods and avoid heating food in plastics or drinking out of plastic water bottles.
Filter your water: Buy a water filter for your tap and shower.
Change your beauty routine: Avoid products with chemicals you cannot pronounce. Many chemicals used in beauty products and soaps are know endocrine disrupters. The most important products to focus on changing are the ones you use most frequently like shampoo, bath soap, toothpaste, face cream etc.
Get your sweat on: Sweating through exercise or a regular sauna is a great way to remove toxins from your body