Keeping our bodies clean and free from toxins is essential to health. However, when discussing toxins, patients often look puzzled and don’t understand where toxins come from. Take a few minutes to consider the following information. If you regularly use any of the personal care items or household products, chances are your body is challenged by a build-up of toxins.
Personal care:
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Soap
- Body wash
- Bubble bath
- Make-up remover
- Hair spray
- Hair gel / mousse
- Hair colour/dyes/perms
- Acne creams
- Anti-bacterial soaps
- Hand cream /body lotions / Moisturiser
- Sun screen
- Shaving cream
- After shave lotion
- Anti-perspirant / deodorant
- Nail polish
- Nail polish remover
- Gel nails
- Make-up
- Lipstick / Lip gloss
- Perfume
- Baby wipes / Wet ones
Household items:
- Dishwasher detergent
- Dishwasher final rinse aid
- Chlorine-containing cleaners
- Air fresheners
- Pesticide sprays
- Spray cleaners
- Laundry powder
- Fabric softener
You may argue that surely our Governments would not permit toxic substances to be sold. Truth is that the control of toxic substances does not lie with an independent body. While manufacturers are required to test many of the chemicals used in their products, these are tested individually and at low concentrations. However, if you use any of the above items more often than once in your lifetime, chances are toxins have built up in your body. Further, it is the combination of several chemicals that exacerbates the toxicity problem we are experiencing today.
So how do you avoid toxins?
Clean up your bathroom and kitchen. These two rooms harbour the most toxic substances used in homes.
- Use only natural, chemical-free body care products – read the labels and get to know the worst chemicals used
- Avoid using any commercial baby care products – keep your baby free of toxins as much as possible to avoid developing allergies and other chronic health conditions.
- Use natural, earth-friendly cleaning products in your home. There is no need to have a different product for different areas of your home. There is no need to use harsh cleaners – vinegar, baking soda, borax, washing soda and essential oils provide natural protection from ‘nasties’.
- Open windows and doors – good airflow will help rid your home of odours as well as keep the mould/mildew at bay.
If you have a garden, refer to organic / natural gardening websites for great tips on how to avoid toxic herbicides. Learn about companion planting to reduce pests.
Remember, every chemical you remove from your life, will be of benefit for you and your family.