Unfortunately, toxins are just about everywhere. They are in food, air, and daily cleaning and beauty products. They are harmful substances that can damage the body, especially after frequent exposure. The good news is that you can support your health by ditching these toxins and reducing exposure to them. Let’s take a look at where to start!
Understanding Toxins
Toxins can be natural or manufactured. Natural toxins are found in certain plants and animals. For instance, some types of mushrooms are toxic to humans. Man-made toxins, on the other hand, are created by humans, usually through industrial processes. Examples include pollution in the air and toxic cleaning products.
Toxins can enter the body through different avenues. You can breathe, ingest, or absorb them through your skin. Once inside, they can affect your body in many ways, from causing immediate health issues to contributing to chronic conditions over time. The immune system works hard to fight these harmful toxins, but sometimes it needs help.
The Importance of Detoxification
The human body does a wonderful job at naturally detoxing itself. The liver, kidneys, and skin work together to remove toxins from the body. However, when exposed to too many toxins, these organs can become overwhelmed. Signs that your body may need extra detoxification support include fatigue, skin problems, digestive issues, frequent illnesses, and hormonal imbalances.
Reducing exposure to avoidable toxins can make it easier for your body to handle unavoidable toxins.
Going Green
While the market for “clean” products has increased dramatically in the last few years, some companies have adopted a green label without changing their ingredients. This is known as “green-washing.” However, many companies have created simple swaps for the many products polluting your home.
What To Look Out For
Common toxic chemicals can act as hormone disruptors and obesogens (cause obesity) and cause many other issues. These disruptors include fragrances, BPAs, bleach, sulfates, and parabens. The list can be overwhelming, and if you need more time before taking a deep dive into all the chemicals you should avoid, we can help you get started with some easy swaps for your home.
Practical Steps to Reduce Toxin Exposure
We can take many practical steps to limit our exposure to toxins. Let’s look at some areas you can work on reducing the toxic chemicals in your everyday life.
Nutrition and Diet
Incorporating organic food into your diet is a powerful way to lessen exposure to toxins. Organic foods are grown without harmful chemicals, providing a healthier option. If you need help figuring out where to start, look at the dirty dozen and clean fifteen lists. This list will help you to know where to begin buying organic.
It is also essential to cut down on processed foods. These foods often contain artificial additives and preservatives that are potentially harmful. Instead, focus on consuming a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Drinking Water
Did you know that water can, unfortunately, be a source of toxins, especially from the tap? Substances like heavy metals, chlorine, and fluoride are often found in tap water. You can check what toxins are in your local tap water by typing in your zip code on EWG’s Tap Water Database. You might be surprised at how many toxins are in your tap water. To reduce your exposure, consider investing in a high-quality water filter. Filters help remove these harmful substances, ensuring your drinking water is clean and healthy.
Household Products
A lot of conventional cleaning products are laden with harmful chemicals. We can inhale these toxins or absorb them through our skin when we use these products. That’s why it’s crucial to switch to plant-based, natural cleaners. But don’t be fooled! Not all “natural” products are as harmless as they seem. Some still contain hidden toxic ingredients. A big red flag is a fragrance. The term “fragrance” on a label can often hide a cocktail of chemicals. So, opt for fragrance-free products or those scented with natural essential oils. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is an excellent resource for finding safer alternatives.
Don’t worry if you are on a budget. You can switch to natural cleaning products easily and affordably. Vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, lemon, and essential oils are all things you may already have in your home. They are also great options for regular household cleaners. If you prefer to buy a good cleaning product, companies like Force of Nature, Molly’s Suds, and Branch Basics have created completely clean options for your family.
Personal Care Products
Like cleaning products, many beauty products contain harmful toxins and endocrine disruptors that can disrupt your hormones. To reduce exposure, opt for fragrance-free or naturally-scented products. Be cautious of the term “natural.” Always read the ingredients to make sure the product is free of harmful chemicals. There are now many brands that offer cleaner, safer alternatives. A great way to check your personal care products is to download an app like Think Dirty. You can scan products at the store to see if they contain harmful chemicals. The EWG also has a personal care database on which you can look products up.
Environment
Indoor air can be polluted with toxins from various sources, including furniture, paint, carpets, and even candles. Improving the quality of your indoor air is crucial. Consider using air purifiers, maintaining good ventilation, and adding houseplants to help clean the air.
Lifestyle Changes
Regular exercise helps detoxify the body through sweat. Staying adequately hydrated, especially with clean, filtered water, assists your body in flushing out toxins. Chiropractic care can also help remove toxins from your body. Finally, quality sleep is necessary for your body to recover and detoxify naturally.
Reducing exposure to toxic chemicals is a crucial step toward supporting your health. You can do this by making mindful choices about what you eat, what products you use, and how you live. Remember that not everything labeled “natural” is necessarily free from harmful toxins. So, it’s crucial to do your homework before purchasing any product.
Small Steps Are Okay!
Remember, every small change can make a difference. Start with one change at a time, and gradually incorporate more as you become more comfortable.
Health is not a destination but a journey. It’s about making choices each day that support your well-being. By reducing your exposure to harmful toxins, you are making a choice that supports your health, both now and in the future. Begin this detox journey today for a healthier and toxin-free life!
Contact Us
At Better Day Chiropractic, we’re dedicated to serving you throughout your pregnancy and postpartum recovery. We also offer sports, family, and pediatric chiropractic care. If you are located in Charlotte or the surrounding areas, reach out to us today.
