When we think about health, we often focus on diet and exercise. But we might overlook another important influence on our wellness: the chemicals and ingredients we’re exposed to through different products and substances, day in and day out.
Not all chemicals are harmful, but some have detrimental effects on our bodies. By learning which chemicals and ingredients are problematic, we can reduce our exposure to toxins that can cause both short- and long-term effects, including skin irritation, headaches, respiratory issues, endocrine disruption (interference with hormones), and even an increased risk of certain cancers.
Ridding your life of all toxic chemicals is nearly impossible because they are quite literally everywhere: in the products we use, the foods we consume, and even the air we breathe. While this fact can seem overwhelming, don’t despair. “While 100% elimination is not possible, you can take small steps that can reduce your exposure and make a big difference in your overall health,” says Devin Kirtley, clean beauty advocate and clean living influencer.
Awareness is key
A first step is to become aware of chemicals that have been found to be harmful. Some of the biggest offenders include formaldehyde, phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA), PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), parabens, and added fragrance/parfum. These ingredients can lurk in products we use all the time, such as plastics, cleaners, cookware, and cosmetics.
Unfortunately, US law does not require manufacturers to list all ingredients in consumer products, so you have to dig deep to know what you are being exposed to. Become an avid label reader, and be cautious even with products that are marketed as “free of” or “clear.” Devin advises a healthy skepticism toward such phrases: “While these claims sound lovely, often it is just a marketing scheme. You really need to do your research on ingredients.”
There are tools available to help you identify safer options. Easily found online is the EPA’s Safer Choice list, which shows you products and ingredients that meet stringent safety criteria for human and environmental health.
There are also apps that evaluate products. “I use an app called Yuka,” says Christa Gant, family nurse practitioner and founder of Strong Roots Health Center. “You can scan any product barcode, and it will give you a grade. The paid version of the app will also give you safer alternatives. I like that because if something is bad, it tells me what is good.”
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) also has an app that contains a database of more than 200,000 products with ratings based on their health, safety, and transparency of ingredients.
Fight toxins from within
Here’s some good news: Your body has its own natural defenses against toxins. And you can boost those defenses with healthy lifestyle choices such as drinking more water (preferably filtered), prioritizing your sleep, and getting regular exercise. “Do everything you can to improve and strengthen the internal terrain of your body,” Christa says. “That way it is easier to withstand the chemicals that will inevitably enter your body.”
A strong lymphatic system can also help defend against harmful substances. This network of organs, tissues, and vessels includes your lymph nodes, bone marrow, spleen, intestines, and more. “A healthy lymphatic system will get toxins moving toward the detox organs to get them out of your body, rather than staying stagnant in your system and building up,” Christa says. Deep breathing, lymphatic massage, and once again, healthy lifestyle choices can keep this system strong.
Safer Swaps
Personal care products:
Soaps, lotions, shampoos, and cosmetics account for a large portion of our exposure to toxins. According to the EWG website, American women use an average of 12 personal care products a day that contain 168 different chemicals, while men use an average of six personal care products that contain 85 different chemicals.
Choose products that are free of parabens, phthalates, aluminum, and fragrance/parfum. Fragrance is a catch-all label that can actually represent a large number of synthetic chemicals.
It may be unrealistic to switch out all of your personal care products at once, so make smarter choices as you restock. “Deodorant is an easy switch,” Christa says. “Opt for one that is aluminum-free.”
Another strategy is to prioritize swaps based on how you use the item. “Prioritize the products that stay on your body longer, like lotions, over shampoo that you rinse away quickly,” Devin advises.
Food storage:
Ditch plastic and use glass. “Try to get rid of plastics, and definitely do not microwave anything in plastic,” Christa says. “Plastics are bad because they break down, and those microplastics can get stuck in our bodies and disrupt our endocrine system.”
Home cleaning products:
Many home cleaning products contain VOCs (volatile organic compounds), which vaporize at room temperature and release chemicals into the air. Breathing these in can irritate your eyes, nose, and throat; make you feel nauseous; and even damage your central nervous system and other organs, according to the American Lung Association. Choose options with low or no VOCs, and avoid products with chlorine, fragrance, and flammable ingredients. You can also make your own safer cleaning solutions from ingredients you likely already have in your home, such as baking soda, vinegar, and essential oils.
One of the worst offenders is air fresheners. The American Lung Association advises avoiding the use of these altogether. Instead, infuse fresh scents into your home by diffusing essential oils.
By Tami Pyles
P.S. You also might be interested in Brighter, Safer Spaces
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