We find harmful toxins indoors and outdoors, including industrial chemicals and pollutants everywhere. These pollutants are found in our homes, at our jobs, where we shop, or anywhere else we can go. They are in the furniture we sit on, the rugs we walk on, the clothes we wear, the detergent or cleaners we use to wash our clothes and clean our house. Many are found in the foods we eat every day. We ingest them through touch, breathing the air, and through our skin, nose, mouth, and ears.
According to the WHO (World Health Organization), at least 25% of health problems are caused or linked to environmental factors. I personally believe that the health problems caused by our environment are much higher than the statistics show. Airborne toxins have been linked to health problems and diseases such as allergies, asthma, diabetes, precocious puberty, cancer, reduced fertility, precocious puberty, premature birth, learning disabilities such as autism, and more.
There are changes you can make in your environment and personal life that can help promote a healthier lifestyle and better overall health for you and your family.
- Switch from toxic chemical cleaners that contain harmful ingredients, including fragrances that are harmful to your health, and use eco-friendly cleaning products or make their own DIY cleaners. You can make your own cleaners or clean using baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, lemons, vinegar which are some of the most effective cleaners. The best part is that there are no health risks and it will save you money. Add some essential oils for an attractive fragrance: like peppermint, orange oil, or rose oil.
- Change of chemical pesticides and use organic and environmentally friendly alternatives. Nobody wants insects crawling around your house, but be sure to make healthy choices and look online for organic and natural pest control that is safe for humans and animals. One way I like to control insects is to take peppermint essential oil and put a few drops of the oil in a spray bottle filled with water and spray anywhere you find insects. Most insects hate the smell of mint. Another helpful tip is to try growing your own peppermint plants indoors, which helps clean the air while keeping insects at bay.
- Get a high-quality air cleaner or purifier. A high-efficiency particulate air filter captures 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns from the air that passes through the filter. HEPA filtered air cleaners are recommended by many healthcare providers. Make sure you buy one that cleans chemicals, dust, and mold, and do your research before you buy to make sure you’re getting the best quality for your money.
- Take off your shoes at the door and have a comfortable pair of shoes that you just wear inside at the door to slide in. You will be amazed at how clean your home will be and how clean your air will be.
- Check your kitchen for toxic products. The plastic container should not be used especially for heating food or storing food. Use glass jars or storage containers that don’t spill toxins on your food. Do not use toxic cookware, such as Teflon-coated pans or pans, which have been linked to many health problems. Ceramic cookware is touted as very safe.
- Try growing your own food with an organic garden. Compost your own food scraps and remove weeds instead of using pesticides. Use natural ways to control insects, such as Neem oil, or search online for many DIY recipes that are very effective.
- Learn to find time each day to be quiet. Noise is everywhere and all around us Noise pollution is a reality that many of us have to deal with every day. Make a daily effort to find quiet time and turn off your television and any other electronic devices. Let your mind be calm and try to meditate even if it is only for 10 or 15 minutes.
It is time to take control of your health. It is not always possible to control what happens outside our home, but we can control what happens inside our home. Make your home a health haven for a healthier, happier and longer life for you and your family.