There is no getting away from it; we are exposed to hundreds of pollutants on a daily basis. These pollutants have molecular structures completely foreign to our bodies genetically designed detox defenses. The rates of mysterious and once-rare health conditions in this country are rising sharply. The medical establishment has not correlated these diseases with chemical toxicity, but I suggest we ourselves awaken to this issue, and take action. The best way is by reducing chemical exposure in the following ways:
- Drink Filtered Water -Avoid water bottled in plastic bottles, as the plastic can leach into the water, depending on how long ago the water was bottled, and how much warmth the bottle has been exposed to during its lifetime. Many of the chemicals used to make plastics are estrogen-mimicers, blocking hormonal receptor site in both men and women. Tap water contains many groundwater pollutants,however most can be removed with a regular household water filter.
Use Glass Food Containers and Stainless Steel Cookware – Storing leftovers in plastic tupperware, especially warm food, can cause leaching of plastic into the food. This is especially true of putting any plastic container, or plastic wrap with food into the microwave. Also, avoid any teflon type cookware (including the higher end teflon) as well as aluminum pots and pans. Both are neurotoxins.
- Wear a Mask when Working with Solvents – If you are painting a room or applying a stain or or doing anything that involves volatile solvents, protect yourself by wearing at least a basic surgical mask.
Use Non-Toxic Cleaning Products – Commercial cleaning products are an everyday source of harmful solvents that we inhale or ingest. Replace these harsh products with eco-friendly non-toxic cleaners. This website has some ideas:
www.ecocycle.org/hazwaste/recipes.cfm
- Use Natural Beauty Products and Deodorant – if you use these products, look at the labels. Shop at a natural foods store, they tend to carry less toxic products. Make sure your deodorant is aluminum free and check all lotions, aftershave, and make up for artificial fragrances.
- Eat Organically and Read Labels – Reduce exposure to pesticide and herbicide sprayed food. Eat unprocessed food as much as possible, and when you do eat processed food, read the label. If there are too many unpronouncable ingredients in it, avoid it. Definitely avoid any foods with aspartame or sucralose in it – both artificial sweeteners associated with many health problems.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, do not worry it is not too late to make these changes and allow your body a chance to detoxify. The main thing is to become aware of your exposure and to take basic steps to minimize it.
