How to get started with a toxin-free lifestyle – Solné
20th Apr 2017
It’s no secret that toxins run rampant in our world. On a daily basis they invade our bodies and our homes. Therefore, it is important to acknowledge their presence and make the best choices possible to limit their impact. The time for living toxin free has come and opportunities to learn are ample.
What Are Toxins?
Toxins have a bad rap for good reasons. The good news is that with a little effort, everyone can live a more toxin-free lifestyle. In fact, not only is it possible, it’s easy . . . just take it one step at a time. A good starting point is EPA. They’ve created an excellent data base. Organizations such as EPA exist around the world in many countries and across continents.
Start Where You Are
This is the best time to start anew and move forward making better choices for your present and future. Start with one change and watch as your mindfulness snowballs into a healthier, toxin-free lifestyle.
- Your Food
Learn about your food and their standards. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), these are some of the naturally occurring elements in our environment and our food. The above link by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration lists some of the naturally occurring elements in our environment and our food. How often and how much you eat foods with these ingredients impact your body’s capability to eliminate toxins. These elements are only a few of many toxins that may be in food sources. It is worthwhile to research and read up on them. You are what you eat.
We may not be able to avoid ingesting toxins altogether, but we can add toxin-fighting foods to our diets, ones that will soak up and sweep away the harmful substances. A few examples include citrus, garlic, and berries. Many of these foods also help support the immune system. There are thousands of books and websites available. Good basic detoxifiers are organic green leafy vegetables and berries. There are many more options. Taking the time to pick up a couple of books is worthwhile. A delicious cook book is always a great way to start. Knowing your body and blood type and matching foods that complement and fortify it are very important. Have you heard of Eat Right for Your Type written by Dr. Peter J. D’Adamo with Catherine Whitney? It’s a great start.
- Your Products
A good place to start your toxin hunt in the house is your bathroom. Look for the word “phthalates” on your bottles (in the shower, under the counter, and in your cosmetics bag). According to the National Institutes of Health, phthalates are “man-made chemicals” that are used in a wide range of items, including bottles (plastic), cleaners, and perfumes. Safer alternatives are just as effective—check out castile soap, vinegar, and natural fragrances.
- Your Clothing
Much of today’s clothing is comprised of chemical dyes and even formaldehyde. There are plenty of safe alternatives, so it makes sense to update your wardrobe. Organic cotton and hemp feel better and are of a higher quality—and they are absolutely affordable for every budget. For a double whammy, swap organic cotton for the Lycra in your athletic apparel and purge those toxins with exercise.The companies that make these products are conscientious about manufacturing and shipping with environmentally sound practices. Even the dyes are either naturally based, low impact or both.
Don’t let the toxins intimidate you. Use resources to help you along the way. The Sustainable Furnishings Council, for instance, sponsors the “What’s It Made Of?” Initiative, which offers guidance and education about products available for purchase. Another great resource is Solné, the eco department store with a wide range of toxin-free alternatives.
It’s imperative to manage the toxins in your life; in doing so, you’ll benefit your health and the environment. Eat wisely, shop wisely, live wisely! We are here to help you along!
