Tips To Clean Up Your Environment

By participating in the Detoxification program you are investing in the most important asset you have – your health.  If the wealthiest person in the world was in a wheelchair, breathing on an oxygen tank, chances are he would be willing to spend every dime to get his health back if it were possible.  Why wait until that point?  Invest in your health now, which is what you’ve done by participating in this detoxification program. Cleaning up your environment is an important step in supporting your body’s natural detoxification processes.

Plastics

Limiting the use of plastics is an important step in reducing our exposure to harmful chemicals and promoting a healthier environment. Plastics contain chemicals such as bisphenols and phthalates that can leach into our food, water, and air, contributing to a variety of health problems. Here are some tips to help you limit your use of plastics:

1. Choose Glass or Stainless Steel Containers – When storing food or drinks, choose glass or stainless steel containers instead of plastic. Glass and stainless steel do not contain harmful chemicals and are more durable than plastic.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastics – Single-use plastics such as straws, utensils, and plastic bags contribute to pollution and are harmful to wildlife. Choose reusable alternatives such as metal or bamboo straws, stainless steel utensils, and cloth bags.
3. Use a Water Filter – Instead of purchasing bottled water, use a water filter to purify your tap water. This can help to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals such as bisphenols and phthalates that may be present in plastic water bottles.
4. Bring Your Own Containers – When purchasing food or drinks on the go, bring your own containers instead of using disposable plastic containers or cups. This can help to reduce waste and exposure to harmful chemicals.
5. Choose Plastic-Free Personal Care Products – Look for personal care products such as toothbrushes and combs that are made from natural materials such as bamboo or wood, instead of plastic.

Hygiene Products

Personal hygiene products and cosmetics often contain chemicals that can be harmful to our health. Triclosan, parabens, phthalates, and bisphenols are just a few examples of chemicals commonly found in personal hygiene products and cosmetics that can have negative health effects. Here are some tips to help you avoid these harmful chemicals and switch to non-toxic personal hygiene products and cosmetics:

1. Read Labels – Start by reading labels on personal hygiene products and cosmetics before purchasing. Look for products that are free of triclosan, parabens, phthalates, and bisphenols. Choose products that are labeled as “non-toxic” or “all-natural” to ensure that you are using safe and healthy products.
2. Avoid Triclosan – Triclosan is a chemical commonly found in antibacterial soaps, toothpaste, and other personal hygiene products. It has been linked to hormone disruption and antibiotic resistance. Look for triclosan-free products, and instead, opt for natural antibacterial ingredients such as tea tree oil.
3. Say No to Parabens – Parabens are preservatives that are commonly found in personal hygiene products and cosmetics. They have been linked to hormone disruption and breast cancer. Look for products that are labeled as “paraben-free” or “preservative-free” to avoid exposure to these harmful chemicals.
4. Avoid Phthalates – Phthalates are chemicals used to soften and improve the flexibility of plastics. They are commonly found in personal hygiene products such as shampoo, lotion, and perfume. Phthalates have been linked to hormone disruption, reproductive issues, and developmental problems. Look for products that are labeled as “phthalate-free” to avoid exposure.
5. Say No to Bisphenols – Bisphenols are chemicals used to make plastics and are commonly found in food packaging, water bottles, and personal hygiene products. Bisphenol-A (BPA) is the most well-known of these chemicals and has been linked to hormone disruption, infertility, and other health problems. Look for products that are labeled as “BPA-free” to avoid exposure.

The Kitchen

Choosing organic foods and cooking with stainless steel or iron cast skillets instead of nonstick cookware can be beneficial for your health and the environment. Organic foods are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, reducing exposure to harmful chemicals. Cooking with stainless steel or iron cast skillets instead of nonstick cookware can help to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals such as perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) that can be present in nonstick coatings.

Here are some tips to help you choose organic foods and cook with stainless steel or iron cast skillets:

1. Choose Organic – When purchasing produce, choose organic whenever possible to reduce exposure to synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. Look for the USDA organic label to ensure that the product meets organic standards.
2. Buy Grass-Fed and Organic Meat – Choose grass-fed and organic meat to reduce exposure to hormones and antibiotics that may be present in conventionally raised meat.
3. Cook with Stainless Steel or Iron Cast Skillets – When cooking, choose stainless steel or iron cast skillets instead of nonstick cookware to reduce exposure to PFCs that can be present in nonstick coatings. These skillets are also more durable and can last for many years.
4. Avoid Aluminum Cookware and non-stick Cookware – Avoid cooking with aluminum cookware, as aluminum can leach into food and has been linked to health problems such as Alzheimer’s disease.
5. Avoid Non-Stick Cookware – Can release toxic fumes when heated to high temperatures, potentially causing flu-like symptoms known as polymer fume fever.
   • Perfluorinated Compounds – Perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) are a group of chemicals used in the production of non-stick cookware. These chemicals have been linked to cancer, hormone disruption, and other health problems.
   • Wear and Tear – The non-stick coating on cookware can wear off over time and get into food, potentially exposing you to harmful chemicals.
6. Cook at Lower Temperatures – When cooking with stainless steel or iron cast skillets, it is important to cook at lower temperatures to prevent food from sticking. This can help to reduce the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals that may be present in burnt food.

Household Cleaners

Household cleaners often contain toxic chemicals that can be harmful to our health and the environment. Exposure to these chemicals can contribute to a variety of health problems such as asthma, allergies, and skin irritation. Fortunately, there are many alternative options for cleaning your home that are non-toxic and environmentally friendly. Here are some tips to help you avoid toxic household cleaners and choose safer alternatives:

1. Read Labels – Start by reading labels on household cleaners before purchasing. Look for products that are labeled as “non-toxic” or “all-natural.” Avoid products that contain ingredients such as ammonia, chlorine, and artificial fragrances, which can be harmful to our health.
2. Use Vinegar and Baking Soda – Vinegar and baking soda are two common household items that can be used to clean a variety of surfaces in your home. Vinegar can be used to clean windows, countertops, and floors, while baking soda can be used to clean sinks, tubs, and toilets.
3. Choose Natural Brands – Look for natural cleaning brands such as Seventh Generation, Mrs. Meyers, and Method that use plant-based ingredients and avoid harsh chemicals.
4. Make Your Own Cleaners – Making your own cleaners is an easy and cost-effective way to avoid toxic chemicals. For example, you can make an all-purpose cleaner by mixing equal parts vinegar and water.
5. Use Microfiber Cloths – Microfiber cloths are an effective and environmentally friendly alternative to paper towels. They can be used to clean a variety of surfaces and can be washed and reused many times.