As we all know, there are many ways in which modern society operates that could potentially contribute to mind and body difficulties.The rampant exposure of chemicals, pesticides, processing, preservatives, radiation, infested waters, etc etc put people at risk for all sorts of things. Fortunately there are things that we can do to try to help ourselves despite all of the environmental toxins that surround us. Here is a list, which I will add to regularly!
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- Start using glass instead of toxic plastics (as much as possible at least).
- Use a water filter. The best water filter is a reverse osmosis water filter; however, this costs a lot of money and is not a realistic option for many people. At the very least, try to get a water filter with a separate spout. New Wave Enviro makes a good one.
- Get a shower filter. Besides the chlorine that you could be ingesting on a regular basis, your body, skin, and hair also have to bear the consequences. Sparkling Spray Chlorine Free Shower Filter is a good one.
- Use toxin-free cosmetics and personal care items. For information on these types of products (specifically a rating scale of toxicity level) visit www.cosmeticdatabase.com . The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has put together this great database, where you can check on thousands of products.
- Use stainless steel, glass, and ceramic cookware. Look for PFOA and PTFE-free pans.
- Can the microwave. Microwaves deplete foods of their nutrients. Instead, opt for a convection oven such as the Flavorwave Turbo Oven.
- Use Real Salt or Celtic Sea Salt instead of regular table salt, which is refined and contains many harmful additives. By the way, if you have or suspect that you have a thyroid problem, get your iodine levels checked, as most people will not get the amount of iodine they need from the amount of salt they consume every day.
- Limit EMF (electromagnetic field) exposure. Try to use your speaker function on your cell phone. If you cannot use speaker, opt for a Blue Tube headset (not blue tooth).
- Do not consume Diet products. Contrary to some people’s beliefs, Diet products actually fool the body into thinking that it is hungrier than it is (due to lack of calories). In addition, almost all products labeled as Diet contain aspartame, a neurotoxic chemical that everyone should avoid. Look for it in any and all products labeled as Sugar Free. By the way, you will find this toxin in almost all brands of gum. Spry gum makes gum that is sweetened with xylitol if you must chew gum.
- On the topic of sugar, it is unrealistic and rigid to say that one must completely eliminate sweets from their diets. Anyone that knows me knows that I preach Balance and that going to extremes is something I try not to do or condone. Accordingly, I will say this: LIMIT your sugar intake. Sugar causes a host of problems; with regard to mental health, the spikes in blood sugar created by excess sugar intake can wreak havoc on your mood. Instead of sodas, if it is the carbonation you like, mix some organic apple juice (or any other juice you like) with some sparkling water or seltzer – but don’t do this excessively either, as too much of it can irritate your stomach sometimes. Instead of artificial, chemically altered sweeteners, use small amounts of agave nectar, raw organic honey, organic maple syrup, or brown sugar. Raw honey also has plenty of healthy benefits.
- Find a holistic dentist who takes mercury toxicity seriously. For a directory of biological mercury-free dentists, visit www.IAOMT.com.
- Avoid the dirty dozen. That is, try to purchase organic for the following list of produce:
- apples
- peaches
- nectarines
- strawberries
- grapes
- celery
- spinach
- sweet bell peppers
- cucumbers
- cherry tomatoes
- snap peas (imported)
- potatoes
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