We all know how hard it is to get an ink stain out of carpet. Some of you out there may have magical solutions, but really, the best solution is never to spill the ink, right?
The same could be said of “toxic stains” in our bodies. Though our physiological systems are master detoxifiers-working to rid our bodies of damaging cells and chemicals through the intestines, kidneys, liver, and blood circulation-the best way to get rid of toxins is never to take them on in the first place.
Need confirmation that you probably have toxins in your body right now? According to studies performed by the Centers for Disease Control, a random sample of Americans showed that virtually all of them were carrying phthalates (associated with sperm damage in a Harvard study), and that 10% of American women carry mercury contaminations at levels considered damaging to fetal growth.
Here are seven ways to shut the door on toxins in your life.
Don’t smoke. Tobacco smoke contains more than 40 known carcinogens. If you’ve tried before and failed, try again!
Clean up the mold. Make sure your bathrooms and other moist areas are well ventilated, launder area rugs regularly, and thoroughly clean water-damaged carpets. Check behind dressers and in corners of closets to be sure mold isn’t collecting out of eye shot.
Buy organic. Organic produce has shown in studies to contain fewer pesticides. Check out the Environmental Working Guide’s (EWG) shopper’s guide to pesticides to guide your future purchases.
Ventilate your dry cleaning. Dry cleaners use a chemical called perc as a primary cleaning solvent-and short-term exposure can cause headaches, dizziness, and other negative side effects. If you get your clothes dry cleaned, consider leaving them outside their bags in the garage or in the trunk of your car before bringing them in. Better yet, consider wet cleaning (described in our post).
Be picky in your hairsprays. Hair sprays, deodorants, and even baby shampoos can contain phthalates. Often you won’t find them on the ingredient list, so buy from trusted manufacturers. For a list of phthalate-free cosmetic companies, check out this list at biggreenpurse.com.
Swap out your household cleaners. Household cleaners can be full of harmful chemicals. Look for greener versions or try some of these homemade recipes.
Carefully repel bugs. Bug repellants can contain powerful pesticides. Choose non-toxic versions like these listed on the eartheasy.com.
Have you made changes to reduce your toxic exposure? Please share your ideas.
Photo courtesy somber via Flickr.com.
