7 WAYS TO STAY TOXIN-FREE
For years, toxins have been introduced into our systems because we were unaware of the dangers of many modern day tools that were initially designed to make life easier. From cookware to cleansers, there are numerous things that people need to change, to move towards a less toxic lifestyle. The Healthy Path Foundation shares seven ways to stay toxin-free.
Eat organic food Food preservatives, additives, and food dyes contain harmful chemicals that can lead to disease. Feed yourself and your family as many natural foods as possible. Avoid processed foods and try to avoid cooking food in the microwave, which will change the molecular structure of food through radiation.
Purify your water Reduce impurities such as chlorine, mercury, and copper in drinking water by utilizing a water filter. There are many pitchers with build in filter options on the market. Select one that eliminates the highest percentage of toxins.
Use natural bug repellents Instead of utilizing chemical heavy bug repellents, utilize natural oils and plants on properties to minimize bug populations and the chances of being bitten. Planting citronella, lavender, and lemongrass can all be helpful in minimizing bug bites from mosquitoes, ticks, and other backyard pests.
Choose alternatives to plastics BPA is an industrial chemical that has been widely used in plastic making since the 1960’s. Select BPA-free plastic and discard old plastics that contain the chemical. Also harmful, are PVC and polystyrene, which have the potential to leach toxins, and melamine, which contains formaldehyde. Avoid plastics that contain recycle symbols of #2, #3, #4, #5 and #7, which indicate the use of potentially harmful substances. Store foods in glass containers to limit your food’s chemical exposure and never heat food in plastic in a microwave, as it can cause the transference of chemicals.
Choose cooking tools carefully To avoid potentially harmful chemicals found in Teflon, non-stick cookware, and aluminum cookware, opt for cast iron or stainless steel pieces. If using a Teflon or non-stick pan or pot, keep the heat at medium or below to minimize the chances of harmful substance leaching.
Avoid synthetic fragrances Instead of using chemical heavy air fresheners, try utilizing natural elements such as pine needles, orange peels, lavender, and cinnamon. They can be set out in a dish or simmered in water on the stove.
Avoid chemical-laden household cleansers Bleach, ammonia, synthetic fragrances, and other harmful chemicals are found in household cleaners.Opt for non-toxic cleaning supplies with no petroleum-based surfactants, chlorine or phosphates. The best option is utilizing old-fashioned standbys, such as baking soda and vinegar.
