Smarter. Faster. Better.
Is it possible that the more efficient we become as a species, the more disconnected, more challenged and unhealthy we can become as a bi-product?
As a result of this modern day motto, the presence of toxins such as heavy metals and endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), have become an undoubtable reality in our modern environment. They exist in our food, personal care, clothing, in our homes, and in the air. They can have a negative effect on our health as well as the health of future generations.
The first step is being aware of the toxins present in our environment and where they are. Having an insight into the world around you allows you to make powerful and informed choices that best serve you and your family, as well as our planet all at the same time
The next step is taking the practical steps to reduce your exposure and knowing the best ways to eliminate them out from your body minimising toxic build up.
Your new mantra is Reduce and Remove.
Here are ways you can REDUCE……
1. Start transitioning all cleaning, personal care and make-up products to natural alternatives
Many of the products we may have grown up with contain lots of harmful nasties such as phthalates, parabens, triclosan and heavy metals. All of these have hormonal disrupting or irritating effects on the body.
The best way to start transitioning to natural alternatives, is by simply switching over one product at a time as you run out of each of your pre-existing products. This is not only healthy for the bank account, but it is also far less stressful and you are not wasting what you already have. Shop toxic free skincare, personal care and cleaning here!
2. Store and heat all food in glass or stainless steel containers
When the truth about plastic was revealed years ago, many products promoted BPA as a safe alternative. Hang on, not so fast…..
Research is showing that BPA-free products are not immune when it comes to the negative impacts on human health. They still contain similar chemical compounds such as BPE or BPS that leach into foods, especially when heated. Switching to glass and stainless steel is a much healthier alternative. Glass is useful for pantry items and leftovers, and lighter stainless steel is great for lunch boxes and on the go meals. Shop plastic free here!
3. Limit exposure to air pollution
Walking in nature is best. But avoiding exercise and outdoor activities along main roads is a great step. Main roads and congested areas have higher concentrations of heavy metals and toxic gases so take the back streets where possible to decrease your exposure to these chemicals.
4. Drink filtered water
One of the best things you can do for your health! Total game changer! This reduces your exposure to compounds such as chlorine and fluoride, which can both negatively impact your thyroid gland, which is like the orchestra conductor of the metabolic rate of your entire body.
5. Use natural air fresheners and perfumes
Synthetic ‘fragrances’ contain phthalates. These are common contributors to dis-regulation in the body. The tricky part is manufactures are only required to list these chemicals as ‘fragrance’ or ‘parfum’ on labels, therefore we are not to know how many, and what kinds of chemicals used. One single scent can be anywhere from 50 to 300 different chemicals. Shop essential oils here
6. Create an indoor nursery
Plants are great at absorbing (therefore reducing) levels of pollution that are emitted into the air from indoor furniture, paints, aerosols and adhesives. Plants such as the Peace lily or a Chinese Evergreen are great plants to add to your indoor collection.
7. Consume organic produce where possible
Much of conventionally grown produce contain high levels of chemical pesticides and herbicides used to kill agricultural pests that can cause some problems if they are consumed by humans in large amounts. Adverse health effects can include on negative impacts on reproduction, immune or nervous systems. If buying everything organic is not possible, then be sure to check out the EWG’s Clean 15 and Dirty Dozen lists that provide a shoppers guide to pesticide levels in produce.
Here are ways you can Remove….
It is likely that the word detox brings to mind week long protocols and juice diets. But ideally we want to encourage the body’s natural detoxification pathways to remove environmental toxins from body on a daily basis. This is especially necessary if you are at risk of ongoing exposure to chemicals.
1. Exercise
What better way to tell toxins where to go than by promoting circulation of blood and lymph? This can enhance the elimination of stored toxins and assist the lungs, kidneys and immune system to naturally detoxify through various channels. What a machine!
2. Dry skin brushing
We are big advocates of dry body brushing! Your skin is a major organ of elimination, so removing any build-up of dead skin cells can increase your body’s capacity to detoxify and eliminate toxins effectively.
3. Spa treatments
The fun one for last! Think saunas and specialised skin wraps that can encourage your body to sweat and allow toxic waste to exit through the skin. One of our favourite ways to eliminate unwanted toxic visitors is with massage. Massage can stimulate the lymphatic system and blood circulation to help rid the body of waste.
Remember…. toxins are present in our environment, and their health impacts are real. However, making incremental steps toward reducing your exposure all adds up to big change, which your body will certainly thank you for.
Inspiration and information care of Metagenics