Toxins in the environment are all around us, and they can be a major contributor to chronic inflammation within our bodies. Chronic inflammation is a major risk factor for many illnesses, such as heart disease, cancer, and autoimmune disorders. Therefore, it is important to understand how environmental toxins can cause inflammation and what we can do to protect ourselves.
One of the ways toxins in the environment cause inflammation is through oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the harmful free radicals (molecules with an unpaired electron) and the body's resources to counteract them (antioxidants). Exposure to chemicals such as air pollution, pesticides, household chemicals (including products like shampoo and lotion), and tobacco smoke can cause oxidative stress, leading to inflammation and damage to cells.
Another way toxins can cause inflammation is through disruption of the gut microbiome. In recent years, studies have shown that the gut is a critical component of our immune system and plays a key role in modulating inflammation. Exposure to toxins can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, leading to dysbiosis (an imbalance in the gut microbiome) and inflammation.
Toxins can also cause inflammation by modulating gene expression. Certain chemicals can bind to our DNA and alter gene expression, leading to inflammatory responses. Studies have shown that exposure to environmental toxins such as benzene, asbestos, and lead can trigger chronic inflammation in the body.
So, what can we do to protect ourselves from environmental toxins and reduce inflammation in the body? Here are some tips:
- Eat an anti-inflammatory diet. Focus on foods that are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients such as fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, and fatty fish such as salmon.
- Engage in regular physical activity. Exercise can help to reduce inflammation by stimulating the release of endorphins, which have anti-inflammatory effects.
- Reduce exposure to air pollutants. Consider using an air purifier in your home and avoid exercising in heavily polluted areas. Throw away your plug-ins and candles.
- Manage stress levels. Chronic stress can lead to inflammation in the body, so finding healthy ways to manage stress such as meditation, yoga, essential oils, or deep breathing can be beneficial.
Toxins in the environment can cause inflammation and contribute to the development of chronic illnesses. By taking steps to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals, eating an anti-inflammatory diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress levels, we can protect ourselves against the harmful effects of environmental toxins and support a healthy, inflammation-free body.
My blogs contain some affiliate links.
Any purchase made is a blessing to my family at no extra cost to you!
Thank you for supporting us!
Read part 1 first.
Let's talk specific laundry ingredients!!! What causes the problems with laundry detergent?
Many of us don’t think twice about the laundry soap we use, but many commercial detergents contain a frightening array of hazardous chemicals that can harm our health. From asthma to skin irritation, it is important to be aware of the toxins lurking in our laundry soaps — and consider safer alternatives.
From endocrine-disrupting compounds to carcinogens, here are some of the common toxins found in laundry soap:
- Phthalates - These have been linked to reproductive problems, developmental problems (with unborn babies) and hormone disruption, as well as heightened risk of asthma and allergies in children.
- Fragrances & Dyes - Common synthetic fragrances like linalool, limonene and ethanol can cause headaches and excessive sneezing when inhaled; while dyes used to give ‘freshness’ may exacerbate skin rashes, respiratory distress, endocrine disruptions, and other reactions. Dyes potentially cause cancer, disrupt the immune system, and can cause hypersensitivity, or hyperactivity.
- Triclocarban & Triclosan - These two preservative ingredients are commonly found in antibacterial soaps, yet are increasingly being added to detergents. They have been associated with antibiotic resistance as well as risks for tumors, endocrine disruption and impaired fetal development.
- Sulfates & Chlorines - Also known as anionic surfactants and bleach respectively, these two substances are known for causing undue skin, lung damage, and eye damage.
- Ethoxylated Alcohols & Phenols - These synthetic compounds can cling onto fibers during washing processes which could then be absorbed into our bodies via skin contact when wearing clothing washed with them; hence posing a risk for organ damage over time! These persist in our clothes, environment, and our bodies, and the bioaccumulation can cause symptoms of exhaustion, muscle weakness, and pain.
6. 1,4 diaoxane - This is known to cause cancer and yet it is still allowed. It is often not on the label, but other ingredients, like sulfates, are contaminated with it. It can also cause skin, eye, and lung irritation as well.
One thing to watch out for is that each of these has many different forms and names. They may appear on the label as something unfamiliar, or they may not appear on the label at all. The word "Fragrance" is a catchall word that protects companies from disclosing their "proprietary" ingredients, and leaves the consumer in the dark.
It is clear that palm-sized bottles of laundry detergents can often be more hazardous than you might think — but thankfully switching out conventional soap for eco-friendly options isn’t too difficult either! Investing in natural products free from parabens, chlorine bleach or artificial fragrances may take a bit more effort than just popping into your local store — but your family’s health makes it more than worth it!
Want to look these up? Google the ingredient + dangers of. Or the ingredient + ewg.org. There are many ways to research, and it can be frustrating to find the truth when companies want it covered up.
My blogs contain some affiliate links.
Any purchase made is a blessing to my family at no extra cost to you!
Thank you for supporting us!
Are you looking for a natural way to freshen up your home as a busy mom? Young Living Essential Oils and Thieves Cleaning products are two great solutions that quickly and easily keep your home smelling sweet and clean.
Using essential oils is an excellent way to enjoy natural scents and neutralize odors without the addition of chemical fragrances that harm our families. Here are some tips on how to use Young Living essential oil varieties in your home:
- Diffuse - The easiest way to refresh any room in your home is by using a diffuser! Add 5-6 drops of your favorite Young Living oil (like Lavender, Peppermint, or Lemon) into the diffuser and enjoy the uplifting aroma throughout the day.
- Spritz - Create an all natural room spray with water, a teaspoon of witch hazel, and 8-10 drops of essential oil – spray in any room to freshen it up instantly! You can also make up fabric refreshers by mixing ½ cup vodka, 2 tablespoons of witch hazel, 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel, 10-15 drops of essential oil and water in a spray bottle. (Use Purification to get rid of nasty odors, or Lavender to create a calm atmosphere in the bedroom)
- Deodorize - Place small cotton balls soaked in tea tree oil (or geranium) inside smelly shoes or add 2 teaspoons of baking soda with 3-4 drops of lemon oil or thieves into stinky laundry baskets before doing the wash.
For those times when you want a deeper clean, turn to Thieves Household Cleaner from Young Living! Not only does it have plant-based ingredients but it's formulated with the power of Thieves essential oil blend which makes surfaces sparkle while diffusing a pleasant citrusy aroma in the air! Try these simple steps for a fresh and clean home – you will be amazed at what a difference it makes!
My blogs contain some affiliate links.
Any purchase made is a blessing to my family at no extra cost to you!
Thank you for supporting us!
There are so many toxins everyone should be aware of in laundry detergent, I will be doing a series of blogs. When I was first learning about this, I needed time to think and process it all and getting bite-sized pieces of information helped me not get overwhelmed as I started to read labels and implement what I was learning. I have some questions for you:
What does your laundry detergent have in it? Are all the ingredients on the label? Do you know what you are putting on your clothes, beds, and breathing in constantly? Do you know and/or are you willing to find out?
Toxins in Laundry Detergent
Laundry detergent is one of the most common household products that contain toxins. A big toxin found in laundry detergent is 1,4-dioxane. This substance is a known carcinogen, and exposure to it has been linked to an increased risk of cancer. Additionally, laundry detergent often contains fragrances, which can trigger allergies and respiratory problems. But that is not all. There are many!
Health Risks of Toxins in Laundry Detergent
The health risks associated with exposure to toxins in laundry detergent are numerous. One concern is that your clothes off-gas in your closet and your home, as well as on your body all day, every day. You really can't get away from the constant barrage of chemicals. (FYI - it takes more than 10 washings for me to get out the smell/fragrance when we are given a piece of clothing). With some ingredients causing cancer, others causing allergies, headaches, and respiratory problems, and still others causing endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity, and developmental toxicity, it's no wonder moms are waking up and saying "NO!"
How to Avoid Toxins in Laundry Detergent
There are a few ways that you can avoid exposure to toxins in laundry detergent. First, you can choose to use natural or eco-friendly laundry detergents that do not contain harmful chemicals. Second, you can make your own laundry detergent at home using simple ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and essential oils. Finally, you can air out your laundry room after doing laundry to help ventilate the area and reduce your exposure to toxins (although this is not the best option, it's better than nothing).
What to Do if You Are Exposed to Toxins in Laundry Detergent
If you are exposed to toxins in laundry detergent(i.e. it spills on your skin), there are a few things that you can do to minimize the health risks. First, if you have any symptoms like difficulty breathing, you should seek medical attention immediately (on the way there, I love the aroma of R.C, or Breathe Again). Second, you should remove any clothing that has come into contact with the laundry detergent. Finally, you should wash any exposed skin, especially if it is irritated, with water, water, and more water. Be sure to get it all off. It can give you a chemical burn if it is not washed off right away.
Warning about laundry pods!
I would not recommend any of these, but if you do use them, keep them well out of the reach of children! Did you know they can cause death when ingested? Read this article from poison control.
When I was first learning about toxins in household cleaners, I often didn't want to look at the next one - because I knew if I knew the ingredients and what they did to my family, I would have to change. But whether I knew or not, they were harming us. I finally opened my eyes to everything and made the necessary changes to protect my family and I am still learning! Stick with me for this series to learn more and you will be so blessed! We have felt the effects and it is only good when you change to better products!
My blogs contain some affiliate links.
Any purchase made is a blessing to my family at no extra cost to you!
Thank you for supporting us!
Mushrooms have long been a staple ingredient in cuisine all around the world. From portobellos to shiitakes to truffles, mushrooms are incredibly versatile, and their unique flavor adds an extra layer of complexity to any dish. They also contain vitamin D, Niacin, Riboflavin, Folate, Phosphorus, Iron, Panthothenic Acid, Zinc, Potassium, Copper, Magnesium, Vitamin B6, Selenium, Thiamin, Polysaccharides, enzymes, proteins, and antioxidants. With a list like that, you definitely want to eat these! But did you know that there are benefits to cooking mushrooms as opposed to eating them raw? Let’s explore why cooking is the best way to prepare mushrooms for consumption.
The Health Benefits of Cooking Mushrooms
First and foremost, it is recommended that you only eat mushrooms cooked for health reasons. Several raw culinary mushrooms contain small amounts of a potentially carcinogenic substance called agaritine, and cooking reduces the agaritine content significantly. In addition, cooking can help make some tough-to-digest mushrooms easier on the digestive system. (*note, studies in humans are needed here, as only animal studies so far produce carcinogenic results, whereas human studies so far have only shown benefits. But I prefer to err on the side of caution. So cook them, I will!)
Mushroom Varieties
When it comes to selecting mushroom varieties for your recipes, there are nearly infinite possibilities! Portobello, oyster, white button, shiitake—the list goes on and on. For example, add portobellos to your stir fry for a meaty texture, or use white buttons in your favorite pasta dish for added heartiness. Shiitakes provide an umami flavor like no other and can be used as a main course when paired with the right ingredients. And don't forget about truffles! Their unique flavor lends an air of sophistication that is sure to impress your guests at any dinner party or special occasion meal.
Mushroom Recipes
If you’re looking for ways to incorporate more mushrooms into your diet but aren’t sure where to start, never fear! There are plenty of delicious recipes available online that make use of common mushroom varieties. From soups and stews to salads and sides dishes - there is something out there for everyone! If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different types of mushrooms and see what works best with your favorite dishes. And if you need to sneak mushrooms into dishes for picky eaters - blending them up is so easy, and then they just disappear into the dish!! You might just stumble upon something amazing!
From health benefits to flavor profiles - it's easy to see why cooking mushrooms is one of the best ways to enjoy this versatile ingredient! Whether you're a seasoned cook or just getting started in the kitchen - adding more cooked-mushroom dishes into your repertoire should definitely be on your list of things to try this year! So get out those pots and pans - it's time to get cookin'! Holistic moms everywhere will love trying out new recipes featuring this nutritious fungi!
Why should we eat mushrooms, anyway? Read about it here.
My blogs contain some affiliate links.
Any purchase made is a blessing to my family at no extra cost to you!
Thank you for supporting us!
