How to reduce your exposure to everyday toxic substances

From the moment you wake up to the time you hit the sack again (and during that interval too) your body is exposed to a myriad of chemicals that might wreak havoc with your health.

Here are a few suggestions on how to avoid or reduce your exposure:

• Buy furniture that is not chemically treated. Most mattresses and upholstered furniture contain flame retardants that are known to affect the endocrine system and some have been shown to induce tumor formation.
• Choose as natural as possible cosmetics. Think shampoos, conditioners, lotions: If they contain parabens, sodium lauryl sulphate and artificial fragrances and coloring agents, stay away. Everything that goes on your body will be adsorbed by your skin.
• Avoid using plastic containers to store your food if possible. While some plastics are safer than others, it is best to rely on glass and stainless steel containers.
• Choose clean foods. Consumption of pesticide-loaded produce and fruit increase the risk of cancer and hormonal imbalances, especially in children. Avoid genetically modified foods, starting with the infamous and ubiquitous corn. Recent studies on rats have shown that GM corn causes tumor formation. The old adage “better safe than sorry” applies when it comes to choosing corn-based products.
• New clothes can come with a toxic load too! From dye chemicals, come of them carcinogenic, to fungicide substances sprayed on to keep clothes from getting moldy, you might be paying a high price for being fashionable. More companies are taking the pledge to reduce the chemical overload but until that becomes the norm, visit consignment stores for great finds that do not hurt you or the planet and do not add any sweatshop guilt.
• Use natural cleaning products instead of the mainstream ones. The “clean” smell is bad news for your respiratory system and your liver. Baking soda, vinegar and tea tree oil can help you clean your home without any toxic residue.