It probably is no surprise to you that the modern-day environment has changed dramatically over the past few decades. We have seen a huge increase in screen time with the reliance on mobile phones, the increase of new high rise developments, overpopulation, pollution, and changes in farming practices with more focus on producing convenience foods as we live faster-paced lives. One way this can negatively impact health is by increasing our exposure to toxins such as heavy metals and endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs).

It is important that we first are aware of this, they are able to prevent the negative impact as best possible. Here we will give you some practical tips on reducing your exposure to these toxins within your environment, so you can live the healthiest and happiest version of yourself.

While we know that toxins are now ubiquitous in both work and home environments, controlling your level of exposure is something you do have influence over.

Detoxing Your Environment

There are 10 main ways you can reduce toxin levels in your environment, which are shared with you below:

1. Choose natural cleaning, personal care, and makeup products

Products that do not contain 80% or more nature-derived ingredients typically contain chemical compounds such as phthalates, parabens, triclosan, and heavy metals which all exhibit endocrine-disrupting or irritant effects within the body. (2,3) Fortunately, as more of the community become educated about the potential negative impacts of these types of ingredients and actively make health a priority in their lives, more companies will be forced to produce products that align with our values.

2. Storage is key

The most common EDC known comes from plastic containers, called bisphenol-A (BPA). What you may not be aware of is that BPEA-free products also come with a risk. Similar bisphenol compounds (such as BPE or BPS) may also have a negative impact on health. Unfortunately, these chemicals can also transfer into foods/water, especially when exposed to heat. Avoiding this is a great second step to reducing EDC intake. With all this in mind, we recommend switching to glass or stainless steel wherever possible as it is the best low-tox option.

3. Air quality matters

You know we encourage regular physical activity here! However, it is important to note that it can lead to excessive pollution intake if you are exercising next to main roads. Heavy metal toxicity is commonly seen in our clinic and unfortunately concentrations of heavy metals such as lead and cadmium, and toxic gases such as carbon monoxide are increased along main roads. So the next time you put your activewear on taking the back streets where possible to decrease your exposure to these chemicals.

4. Filtered is best

Staying adequately hydrated is one of the most important things you can do for your overall health. So it is no secret that the water you drink matters! The most important compounds you want to reduce exposure to are chlorine and fluoride. Both of these chemicals have shown to negatively impact your thyroid gland, which governs the metabolic rate of your entire body.

5. Freshen up your space with the smell of nature

Another type of EDC group, commonly found in synthetically scented products, are called phthalates. It is important to note that companies do not have any obligation to list the true ingredients within their products, so it is easy to be misled. Our tip is to try to avoid any scented product that only lists ‘fragrance’ or ‘perfume’ instead of real natural-derived ingredients.

6. Consume organic wherever possible

We all hear about the importance of eating organic meat and produce, but what is the big deal? Well eating organic meat helps reduce your intake of persistent organic pollutants (POPs). POPs are another type of EDC chemical that resists degradation, bio-accumulates in water supplies, soils, and crops, and are then consumed by livestock. Don’t think if your vegetarian or vegan you don’t need to be concerned. Many pesticides and herbicides are also used in fruit and vegetable farming that also carry EDC status. Choosing organic fruits and vegetables, wherever possible, is definitely an investment worth considering when working to reduce toxin exposure.

7. Create more green space

The good news, indoor plants do more than just look pretty! They also help to recycle and refresh the air you breathe. In addition to consuming carbon dioxide, indoor plants also absorb and reduce levels of air pollution. As well as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from indoor furniture, paints, aerosols, and adhesives. There is a wide range of indoor plants you should consider investing in for your home or office space. Our favourites are the Peace lily, Boston fern, Aloe vera, and Bamboo.

Increasing Your Toxin Elimination

We are all exposed to some degree to environmental pollutants and require regular detoxification. This process can be encouraged by choosing products that support the liver pathways in addition to actively reducing exposure using the above-mentioned tips. It is important to note that some industries naturally lead to ongoing exposure to chemicals; such as hairdressers, painters, cleaners, miners, metal workers, mechanics, or those in aeronautical services. These professions are especially encouraged to implement the next three healthy detoxification tips (but are beneficial for everyone):

8. Get active

Encouraging the circulation of blood and lymph helps with the natural elimination of wastes from the body. Another benefit of better circulation also includes the optimal delivery of essential nutrients and oxygen to your cells, organs, and muscles.

9. Self-care using skin brushing

Your skin is a major organ of elimination. We encourage you to invest in a skin brush to help remove any build-up of dead skin cells, which increases your body’s capacity to naturally detoxify and eliminate toxins.

10. Detox at the spa

If you need another excuse to get that spa treatment, here it is! Saunas and skin wraps can be powerful detoxification tools as they encourage your body to sweat and remove waste through your skin. A massage is also a great option as it supports detoxification by stimulating lymphatic and blood circulation.

If you are ready to get your health under control and need some personalized professional guidance make sure you book your FREE Discovery Chat in our online clinic today. Our wide selection of high-quality professional products are available as part of your free consultation and we express post products Australia-wide.

Not ready to ask your Naturopath yet? Check out our do-it-yourself educational and supportive health programs, like our Gut Repair program, instead.