What you choose to keep OUT of your body and mind is just as important as what you put IN them when it comes to aging gratefully.
Unfortunately, you live in a world where it’s becoming more and more necessary to put a big, deep moat around yourself to keep OUT all of the toxic things (and people!) that might otherwise stick to you. From endocrine-disrupting chemicals in your environment, food, and personal products to toxic people, learning what to avoid is key to keeping you glowing and vibrant over time.
Endocrine disruptors mimic or interfere with the body’s hormones, known as the endocrine system. These chemicals can be found in everyday products such as plastic bottles and containers, liners of metal food cans, detergents, flame retardants, food, toys, cosmetics, and pesticides. They are linked to developmental, reproductive, brain, immune, and other problems. Some of these chemicals are slow to break down in the environment and therefore are potentially hazardous over time.
In the United States, more than 80,000 new chemicals are put out into the world every year. Unfortunately, the regulatory agencies don’t have the time or resources to do long-term safety research on the health impact of each of these chemicals. Then, of course, there’s the fact that most of us are exposed to multiple endocrine disruptors at the same time, which hasn’t been studied. Yikes!
Some common examples of endocrine disruptors include Bisphenol A (BPA), Dioxins, Perchlorate, Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), Phthalates, Phytoestrogens, Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE), Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), and Triclosan.
People may be exposed to endocrine disruptors through food and beverages, pesticides, and cosmetics. Even low doses of endocrine-disrupting chemicals may be unsafe, as they can alter the body’s sensitive systems and lead to health problems.
An example of a typical source of environmental toxins is sunscreens. Many sunscreens contain chemicals that can be absorbed into the bloodstream and have been linked to hormone disruption and even cancer. To avoid these toxins, it is essential to choose sunscreens made with mineral-based ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which provide a physical barrier on the skin to protect against UV rays. Additionally, it is crucial to be mindful of the sun protection factor (SPF) rating and choose one appropriate for your skin type.
The people you surround yourself with can also contribute to your toxic load! Although it’s unlikely that they are spraying you with poisonous materials, it IS possible that they are negatively affecting you. “Toxic” people, or those who make you feel stressed or anxious or bad about yourself and your decisions. They can have a negative impact on your mental and physical health. Such people may be found in your family or friend circle, but they can also be found online within your social media circle!
Get rid of as many “toxic” people as you can! Building a support system of positive and uplifting people who make you feel good can help to improve your overall well-being.
Building your better tomorrow starts with curiosity and ends with intention. Make an effort to learn about potential environmental toxins and then take action to remove them from your life! Here are some action steps you can take today to start avoiding toxins and build your better tomorrow:
Below are three Action Steps that you can implement today! If you’re feeling extra motivated, add in a few Lightning Strikes and feel how light and free you suddenly feel!
Your life choices stick to you, and your decisions today can have a lasting impact on your health and longevity. By being mindful of the toxic chemicals and people you expose yourself to, you can take control of your health and build a better future for yourself.
For more information about potentially dangerous environmental toxins and what to do when encountering them, visit The Environmental Working Group.
