Environmental Toxins and Minimizing Exposure

 

In modern times, environmental toxins stand out as THE greatest contributor to disease and suffering of humans, wildlife and the Earth. And while there is an ever-increasing burden on our bodies’ detoxification systems, there are also solutions.

Click HERE for a lineup of supplements specifically designed to support healthy detoxification and optimal resilience to the impact of environmental toxicity.

Did you know…

 

Most research on the effect of chemicals is performed on mice. The studies, which are short-term and DO NOT ACCOUNT for chronic exposure over time, look for things like “weight change” and incidence of death from extremely high doses.

This information does not translate to reality: human beings and affected differently, and the effects of chronic exposure to even small amounts of toxic chemicals have major health implications over the course of a human lifespan.

HERE is some more in-depth information and a partial list of the most harmful chemicals found in our everyday environment – cars, homes, public places, air, water, and others.

Symptoms of chemical overload include:

  • Nose and Throat Irritation
  • Headaches
  • Skin Rash
  • Digestive Issues
  • Inflammation – brain, heart, systemic
  • Autoimmune disease
And some known and well studied complications are:
  • Cancer
  • Organ Damage
  • Weakening of the Immune System
  • Allergies or Asthma
  • Reproductive Problems and Birth Defects
  • Mental Health Problems
  • Hearing Loss
  • Liver Damage
  • and many more

What you can do to minimize exposure to environmental toxins and prolong long term health: 

 

1. Avoid Scented Items

Most scented products, particularly air fresheners, are infused with chemicals known to be hazardous to health. Besides producing air quality pollution, when released into the atmosphere and inhaled, the off-gas toxins are hamful and lead to neuroinflammation.

2. Avoid Living and Exercising Near Busy Roads 

One of the primary sources of particulate matter is traffic-related air pollution. Living and recreating away from busy roads can significantly reduce your exposure to harmful particulate matter.

3. Use High-Quality Filters in Vacuum Cleaners 

Using HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters minimize the amount of dust and particles released back into the air.

4. Be Cautious with New Furniture 

New furniture, especially pieces made from synthetic materials like particle board, can off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These compounds greatly contribute to inflammation in the lungs and brain.

5. Use Stainless Steel or Glass Tupperware

Most to-go packaging is full of harmful chemicals like styrofoam, phthalates and plastic particulates. Certain plastics dissolve partially when heated and the chemicals infuse into your food. Avoid them whenever possible. Even bisphenol (BPA) free plastics and cans may be problematic – they are generally lined with bisphenol S and F instead – also harmful chemicals.

6. Use a Water Filter

Well water and city water contains contaminants. Micro-organisms and bacteria, medications and harmful chemicals. If you want to be a total nerd about it, HERE is an amazing course my colleague, Dr. Lara Adler created to help navigate the confusing terrain. But first, check out THIS video – it’s quick and comprehensive and will provide a great place to start.

*** VERY IMPORTANT: Water filtration typically removes minerals, which are absolutely essential to human health and the functioning of our bodies. Make sure you add minerals to your drinking water after it has been filtered. 

7. Use Clean Personal Care Products 

Nothing is more disruptive to the endocrine (hormone) system than chemicals found in personal care products. HERE is some information on toxic chemicals banned in the EU but not in the US. A good guideline is: if you can’t pronounce it, don’t put in on your skin or in your body! I prefer to use only naturally occuring products and avoid chemicals in personal care products altogether.

8. Use non-UV Air Purifiers 

Air purifiers can help reduce indoor air pollution significantly. Some purifiers that use UV (ultraviolet lights), however, generate ozone, which can be a harmful air pollutant. Seek out purifiers that rely on mechanical filters instead.

9. Avoid Chemical-Based Cleaning Supplies 

Zero Waste Outlet specializes in clean products. You can easily make effective cleaning solutions using lemon, vinegar, baking soda. HERE are some ideas on how to DIY.

10. Avoid Mold Exposure

Avoiding mold altogether is likely impossible. The stuff is everywhere – in our walls, in seeds and nuts, on veggies and fruits, in grandma’s basement. Keep windows open, washing foods thoroughly, keep things like nuts and seeds and coffee in the freezer. And, help your body detox with toxin-free chemicals to prevent mold taking over your body, which, if it happens, creates big problems and is incredibly difficult to treat. 

You deserve to make an informed choice!

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