As we bring in the New Year, many people are thinking about their sugar detox and extra trips to the gym. But what about simple ways to reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals in 2018?
As you may have seen, this fall I had my body tested for toxic chemicals with the science organization the Silent Spring Institute. Having made safer, non-toxic choices for the past decade, I was happy to see that my choices paid off, and yours can too.
(Photo Credit: Chelsea Prestin Photography)
Simple Steps for a Non-Toxic 2018
1 – Invest in Safer Skin Care & Clean Cosmetics
- My personal recommendations for safer skin care products by skin type
- “Anti-aging” skin care with out the harmful chemicals
- Clean cosmetic recommendations
- Safer nail polish brands
(Also of interest, Safer Beauty Products for the Budget Conscious Family)
2 – Skip canned food and beverages (including your LaCroix sparkling water!)
Seven out of ten cans are known to be lined with toxic chemicals BPA, BPS and BPF, so opt for fresh or frozen produce instead. This includes canned soda water! If you like sparkling water like I do, invest in a Soda Stream (affiliate link), which is better for you and the environment.
3 – Switch to non-toxic cookware
I personally love cast iron, but get the skinny on ceramic and stainless steel HERE.
4 – Swap plastic for glass
Thankfully, glass food storage containers are easy to find at most major retailers.
5 – Invest in flame-retardant free furniture
Mainstream brands that make couches and arm chairs without toxic flame retardant chemicals.
6 – Reduce dairy consumption
A study by the well-respected Environmental Health Strategies Center found high levels of phthalates, hormone-disrupting chemicals in cheese and dairy products. The phthalates travel from the plastic tubing and settle into the fat of the dairy.
7 – Choose environmentally friendly laundry detergent (that also works on hot yoga gear)
Molly’s Suds (affiliate link) has always been my favorite non-toxic laundry detergent. This year I learned about the GuppyFriend, which is a bag that helps you reduce micro-plastic pollution from athletic gear.
8 – Seek out non-toxic tampons
Brand recommendations and what to look out for outlined HERE.
9 – Skip the lid on your to-go cup
The lids used at nearly every major coffee chain are made of styrene, a chemical that is classified as a carcinogen and the fifth biggest hazardous waste product by mass. Bring a reusable coffee cup when possible.
10 – Choose fish wisely
A simple guide for choosing fish known to have less pollutants (aka lower on the food chain).
Here’s to a happy, healthy 2018. I’m happy to answer questions via the comments below!
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What a fantastic, all inclusive list! THIS is the information that should be shouted from the rooftops to educate others (I needed the education, too). Thank you, thank you!
Signed,
A Fellow Beautycounter Sista