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Sunday, December 26, 2021

How to Reduce Plastic Exposure in Our Daily Life?

 

Plastic is ubiquitous in our culture. It’s convenient, fast, and cheap. We find it in water bottles, dishes, baby bottles, children’s toys, lotions, and even our cosmetics. But there is usually a price to pay for convenience, and in this case, we’re talking about toxicity overload. Read on to find out how to reduce plastic exposure in our daily life.


Click HERE to Discover these 80 Keto-Friendly and Healthy Slow Cooker Recipes



The 9 Worst Dangers of Plastic & 12 Healthier Alternatives

Plastic is ubiquitous in our culture. It’s convenient, fast, and cheap. We find it in water bottles, dishes, baby bottles, children’s toys, lotions, and even our cosmetics.

But there is usually a price to pay for convenience, and in this case, we’re talking about toxicity overload. Most people think that plastic is a single material, but in reality, plastic is a concoction of numerous synthetic materials combined to create the softer-than-rubber texture that has become the mark of modern life.

What Are Plastics?

Plastic refers to materials that are typically made from by-products of oil, natural gas, or coal. Plastics are also known as polymers. After they are designed, additives are combined with the base material to give it the properties required for whatever it will be used to manufacture. Some additives will make plastic more heat resistant, chemical resistant, or fade resistant. Examples of additives included in plastics are:

  • Antioxidants: to prevent weathering
  • Colorants: to change the color
  • Foaming agents: for carpet padding and foam insulation
  • Plasticizers: for flooring, insulation, gutters, and more
  • Lubricants: for airplanes, locks, hinges, and more
  • Anti-stats: to cut back on static electricity
  • Antimicrobials: for wall covers, shower curtains, and toilet seats
  • Flame retardants: for wire coverings, children’s toys, and more

Plastic material is used to manufacture hundreds of everyday products, from everything like mattresses and cushions to insulation, flooring, furniture, dishes, glues, water bottles, and siding.

Bottom line: Plastic is a common material used in hundreds of everyday products, and it can be found in almost every home. Plastic exposure is almost a guarantee for everyone in the modern world.

9 Ways Plastic Wrecks Our Health and Environment

Additives in plastic don’t just stay there—they get absorbed into bodies, break down as dust and pollute the air, and get into soil and water. Certain components of plastic have hormone mimicking properties that can increase your risk of cancer. Additives in plastic pollute the air and get absorbed into bodies.

Most don’t look beyond the convenience of plastic, but in reality, polymers are putting human, animal, and environmental health at serious risk.

1. Plastic Injures and Poisons Wildlife

Whether it’s large pieces of garbage debris that entangle animals or fish, or tiny fragments that get ingested by birds, fish, or other wildlife, plastic ends up in places it doesn’t belong and brings harm to wildlife across the world.

According to the linked study, at least 77 species of marine wildlife in Australian waters have been impacted by entanglement or ingestion of plastic debris. While entanglement is more common, ingestion is sometimes difficult to assess since not all dead animals are analyzed to determine if ingested debris was a contributing factor. Still, the problem is widespread, impacting every corner of the world and hundreds of species.

2. Plastics Escape from Landfills into Water Supplies

As much as people don’t love the thought, all that garbage that goes into landfills doesn’t just stay there. Ground water supplies in surrounding areas can become polluted with toxins found in plastics as plastic material absorbs into the soil.

While the EPA closely monitors groundwater supply, there is a certain volume of allowable toxins in the water. A primary way to protect groundwater supply is to reduce the quantity of garbage going into landfills.

3. Plastics Consume Priceless Energy

It takes a significant amount of oil to manufacture plastics, both in raw material for the product and in energy used to produce it. This energy could be better spent or conserved, but instead is spent manufacturing a product that will, in theory, never leave the environment since it’s incredibly likely to end up in a landfill at some point or another.

4. Plastics Leach into Food and Drinks

Whether it’s BPA from soda cans or BPA-free plastic that is heated in the microwave, plastic particles leach into foods and beverages more easily than people think.

When plastics are heated, like in a microwave, or washed in extremely hot temperatures, like in a dishwasher, they break down and release particles that then get absorbed through skin contact or through food or drinks. While these toxins can be reduced by handwashing plastics in lower temperature waters, they will still break down over time as they age.

5. Plastics Cross the Placenta

Toxins and chemicals that get ingested don’t stop at circulating within the body or living in adipose (fat) tissue. They also accumulate in the placenta, and most babies are born already having been exposed to dozens of chemicals.

Even mothers who are cautious about their exposure to plastic or other hormone-disrupting chemicals will ingest them as a result of environmental exposure, water, and food.

6. Plastics Cause Reproductive Harm and Infertility

Because toxins found in plastics can mimic estrogen, they have the potential to cause reproductive harm and infertility in both men and women. Xenoestrogens can reduce testosterone count, falsely elevate estrogen in men and women, and disrupt normal fertility cues. In prepubescent boys and girls, these same chemicals can also interfere with normal testicular development or lead to early-onset menstruation.

7. Plastics Increase Risk of Breast Cancer

While manufacturers of plastic products continue to insist that they’re safe, research has linked certain chemicals found within plastic products to certain kinds of cancer, particularly breast cancer.

This can be especially scary for women who have genetics that lead to a higher risk. Reducing plastic exposure can be one way to lead a cancer-preventive lifestyle.

8. Plastic Can Disrupt the Thyroid

Not only do plastics disrupt normal fertility, but they also mess with other hormones within the body, like the thyroid. With thyroid problems being the most common cause of autoimmunity, and more than 27 million Americans suffering from thyroid disorders, this is a significant aspect of plastic exposure that needs to be addressed.

Thyroid hormones impact almost every other hormone that the body produces, so an overburdened thyroid can have far-reaching impacts on reproductive, digestive, and cardiovascular health.

9. Plastics Increase Risk for Heart Disease and Diabetes

While diet plays a large role in heart health, high levels of plastic exposure can contribute to greater cardiovascular disease risk. Not only that, but toxins found in plastics can also increase the odds of developing type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

Plastics can lead to cellular confusion, which can increase the risk of autoimmune reactivity (type 1) or can reduce hormonal sensitivity, leading to insulin resistance (type 2). Toxins found in plastics can increase the odds of developing diabetes.

Bottom line: We come in contact with plastics throughout our daily life. It’s hard to get away from it since it’s found in homes, work places, public transportation, food products, and everything in between. The cumulative exposure that occurs can be detrimental to your health.

How to Detox from Plastic Exposure

While it’s alarming to realize how plastics are found in every aspect of life, there are things we can do to protect ourselves from the negative impact.

First, we need to be able to detox from these exposures, since even plastic-conscious people will still find some level of exposure nearly unavoidable.

The primary way that the body detoxes is through the liver. The largest internal organ, the liver is the body’s filter and trash collector. It filters the blood and removes toxins, breaking them down and pairing them with water molecules for elimination from the body.

The kicker is that the more toxic we become, the less efficiently the liver works. It gets bogged down, and while it can work independently, if we live a lifestyle that supports the liver, it will work more effectively.

Certain foods and nutrients support liver health, and these need to be regularly replenished.

5 Detox Foods for Your Liver

The body is equipped with several organs that are designed to help take out the trash, so to speak. The liver is the primary detox organ, and in order to detox effectively, the liver needs to have access to the nutrients that help it function at its best.

1. Water

While not technically a food, staying hydrated is step one for being able to effectively flush toxins from the body. The liver pairs toxins with water molecules and sends them out of the body via the kidneys and intestines. When enough water isn’t consumed, urine output decreases and constipation occurs.

To be a toxin flusher, you’ll want to stay hydrated enough to not feel thirsty. Another way to gauge hydration is by the color of the urine: the lighter it is, the more hydrated you are. The darker it is, the more concentrated, usually resulting in decreased output.

Ideally, bowel movements will occur one to two times daily, and should pass easily without strain. If constipation is a problem, the other foods that support liver health can also ensure healthy bowel elimination.

2. Cruciferous Vegetables

Broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage are three of the more well-known crucifers. While some may avoid them due to their signature bitter profile, or because they’re known to be gas-producing, if you’re concerned about plastic exposure, you’ll want to regularly indulge in them.

Crucifers are rich in phytonutrients that actually help the liver to counteract the harmful effects of certain toxins. They also protect the liver itself from being damaged by exposure to the toxins. If gas is a problem, start by steaming them, and slowly work your way into eating them raw. Enjoy two to four servings daily for optimal benefits.

3. Garlic

The allicin found in garlic is frequently compared to pharmaceutical compounds for its amazing ability to promote healing for the immune system. Allicin is also protective of the liver, and boosts the ability to more efficiently detox.

Garlic can be eaten raw, roasted, or baked, and pairs well with numerous foods and flavor profiles. Eat some garlic daily for best detox benefits.

4. Berries

Famed for their antioxidants, berries are one of the best foods for healthy detox because they are rich in nutrients and low in natural sugar.

While sugars that are naturally found in foods aren’t all bad, when you’re eating with detox in mind, you will want to focus on foods that are nutrient-dense and free from empty calories.

Berries can be enjoyed regularly without spiking blood sugar. Eat one to two cups daily for a hefty dose of vitamin K, vitamin C, and fiber.

5. Leafy Greens

Last but not least, leafy greens are rich in vitamin K, which promotes healthy blood. While some associate vitamin K with clotting, it’s also essential for healthy hemoglobin levels. Leafy greens also contain iron, which is also essential for having properly oxygenated blood.

You want your blood to be as robust and healthy as possible, since it transports oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. Have a few cups daily of leafy greens like watercress, beet greens, dandelion greens, and romaine to boost your overall wellness.

Bottom line: We can’t completely stop exposures to plastics, but we can help our bodies to more successfully eliminate the toxins that we do ingest or absorb. This can be done through nourishing our liver, the primary detox organ.

12 Healthier-for-You Alternatives to Plastics

Finding yourself shocked by the amount of plastic in your life? There are alternatives for almost everything. It can be tempting to throw everything out, but that can quickly get expensive and can be impossible for many families.

The best way to approach plastic swapping is to always purchase new items as plastic-free as possible, and to prioritize old plastic items and replace when possible.

Metal, Glass and Silicone Straws

Instead of plastic straws, choose metal, glass or silicone straws. While silicone is considered a form of plastic by some, it doesn’t leach into foods or produce the same forms of toxicity as conventional or disposable plastic.

Glass Food Containers

Instead of the ubiquitous plastic containers that are found in most cupboards, choose plain glass Pyrex containers (plastic lids can be OK since they don’t come in contact with food).

Glass is considered non-toxic since it is derived from sand, but you’ll want to choose a plain glass, not anything that is painted or frosted, since those can leach chemicals or toxins, including lead.

While glass can be impractical for houses with small children, mason jars can also be helpful for storing leftovers. Silicone sleeves are available for glass jars and some bowls to help make them shatterproof.

Stainless Steel Water Bottles

Instead of using plastic water bottles and cups, opt for stainless steel water bottles and glasses. Silicone shields are available to help make them less breakable.

Silicone Baggies

It’s super convenient to take food on the go or to quickly store leftovers, but these little plastic baggies are major plastic offenders. Try swapping them for silicone baggies, of which Stasher bags are popular and easy to wash and reuse. They’re even dishwasher safe.

Food grade silicone, like what Stasher uses to manufacture their product, is considered non-toxic because it is derived from silica, an abundant natural resource also derived from sand, instead of most plastics, which are derived from petroleum bases.

Reusable Bamboo Forks and Spoons

If you need those on-the-go plastic forks and spoons, opt instead for a reusable bamboo set that will travel with you, or just pack silverware (and don’t forget to bring it back).

Metal Lunchboxes

Metal bento boxes are popular right now and for good reason: they’re more environmentally friendly and durable. Since they’re often made from stainless steel, they won’t put your child’s food in danger of contact with plastics. Pack your kids’ lunches in durable, environmentally friendly stainless steel bento boxes.

Silicone Ice Cube Trays

Silicone ice cube trays work just as well as plastic ones, and bonus: they don’t discolor or age from repeated uses.

Wooden and Silicone

Wooden toys, which are making a comeback, are about more than just the vintage vibe. These toys tend to be more expensive, but they’re plastic-free and built to last significantly longer. Silicone or real rubber toys can also be a good option for babies who love to chew things.

Glass Baby Bottles and Cups

Babies are at the highest risk for danger from repeated plastic exposure, so opt for safer options like glass baby bottles with silicone sleeves and nipples, stainless steel drinking cups, or water bottles with silicone straws.

Cast Iron Cookware

That non-stick cookware emits a form of plastic toxin when it’s heated, so instead, opt for stainless steel or cast iron cookware.

Glass, Porcelain and Silicone Dishes

Options include glass, porcelain, and silicone, meaning there’s something for everyone that doesn’t include plastic toxins.

Cotton Mattresses

Since these can be a main source of long-term plastic exposure along with flame-retardants and other chemicals, choose a mattress that is organic and made from cotton, latex, wool, bamboo, or other natural substances.

Bottom line: There will always be some level of plastic exposure thanks to the modern environment that we live in. But when we enable our bodies to effectively detox, and then we cut down on exposures by choosing alternatives to plastic, we will set ourselves up for greater health and wellness.

Watch this video to learn how to reduce plastic exposure in our daily life –How to Live a Plastic-Free Life | Alexis McGivern | TEDxInstitutLeRosey


Written by Aimee McNew

Author Bio:

Aimee McNew is a Certified Nutritionist who specializes in women’s health, thyroid problems, infertility, and digestive wellness. She ate her way back to health using a Paleo diet, lost 80 pounds, and had a healthy baby after numerous miscarriages. She focuses on simple nutrition practices that promote long-lasting results.

Kelsey Alea, is a certified nutritional therapist at PaleoHacks. She is the author of the Keto Slow Cooker Cookbook. The cookbook features 80 mouth-watering Keto slow cooker recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert. It is a perfect cookbook for those who want to indulge, save time in the kitchen, and stay in ketosis.

A lot of people have gotten results from the Keto diet, and enjoyed the foods that it has to offer. However, many of the people who are following this diet have a hard time finding the recipes that they need, especially ones that are quick and easy to complete.

Fortunately, Kelsey Ale, noticed this problem, and decided to do something about it. She’s found that making recipes in a slow cooker gives you meals which are not only delicious, but also take very little time to make. Mostly you just put a few simple ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it do the rest.

To find out more, click on – Keto Slow Cooker Cookbook

Wednesday, December 22, 2021

3 Most Common Daily Toxic Chemicals You Should Avoid

 

3 most common daily toxic chemicals you should avoid. We’re subjected to chemical toxins every day. Here are three of the worst toxins you regularly come into contact with – and how to avoid them.


Click HERE to Discover these 80 Keto-Friendly and Healthy Slow Cooker Recipes



The 3 Most Insidious Toxins You Ingest on a Regular Basis

We’re subjected to chemical toxins every day. Here are three of the worst toxins you regularly come into contact with – and how to avoid them.

Not all toxins are created equal. In fact, the meaning of the term “toxin” has really become watered-down due to overuse. Even water can be toxic if you have enough of it!

The toxins we’re most concerned about are the chemicals that can cause severe health damage, in even small amounts. Out of the minefield of chemicals you interact with daily, these three are among the worst:

  • BPA
  • Mercury and other heavy metals
  • Phthalate

Read on to discover why these toxins are particularly bad – and the unlikely places you might find them.

1. BPA

BPA, short for Bisphenol A, was created in 1891. Yes, over 100 years ago.

It took about 40 years before anyone thought to study the safety of the chemical, and over the last 30 years or so, it has been a highly controversial substance.

It is used primarily to make certain plastics, which are then used in food packaging in the form of bottles and cans.

How BPA is Toxic

The endocrine system is the hormone regulating system, and any disruption to it is cause for serious worry. BPA is an endocrine disruptor, which essentially means that it interrupts the proper function of certain hormones.

To start with, BPA acts as an antiestrogen. This means that it competes with endogenous estrogen as it binds to estrogen receptors.

In addition, BPA can also bind to thyroid receptors, as well as interact with your nervous system, endocrine pancreas, and immune system.

So, what does this mean for your health? In one study of American adults, a higher level of urinary BPA was significantly associated with a higher risk of diabetes, heart disease, and liver damage. Further studies have also proven significant associations between high levels of BPA and insulin resistance.

There are also concerns over reproduction and birth defects, which is a common side effect of endocrine disruptors. A study in pregnant rats showed that BPA is transferred from the mother to the fetuses, and may affect birth weight.

Where is BPA Found?

In order to avoid it, you need to know where BPA is lurking.

BPA often comes from what we use to eat and drink, like plastic bottles and food cans. BPA then can transfer from those containers onto our food, which is when we ingest it. Most food cans are lined with resin that has BPA, including tins of fish and spaghetti sauce jars.

BPA is also present in many water bottles, especially if the bottom of the bottle has a recycle code of 3 or 7. When the plastic gets heated, it’s possible for it to break down and allow BPA to leach out much easier.

There are also other sources of BPA that you really have no control over, like medical devices, safety equipment (like helmets), and even some dental materials.

Just make sure to wash your hands really well after going to the doctor’s office!

Other weird sources of BPA: BPA often makes its way into recycled paper products. It’s fairly common in receipt paper, and even in pizza boxes.

How to Avoid BPA

The best way to cut back on your exposure to BPA is to limit the amount of cans you buy in favor of fresh food, and opt for glass bottles over plastic whenever possible.

It might also make sense to invest in a reusable BPA-free water bottle, like Nalgene.

If you reuse disposable bottles, replace them frequently and keep them away from heat.

2. Mercury

Mercury has been long known as a toxin, even in small amounts. Unfortunately, mercury is still used for a variety of industrial processes. For instance, to produce chlorine via the chloralkali process, over 90,000 kg of mercury is produced and subsequently released to the environment.

Where is Mercury Found?

Mercury is produced by burning coal or waste. The mercury typically ends up in aquatic ecosystems, where fish ingest it, and it goes up the food chain.

As great as it is to eat seafood, ingesting too much mercury is a problem. In 2003, a study revealed that about 8% of people in the United States had higher mercury levels than the safe level determined by the EPA.

This is likely because mercury is so difficult to get rid of. Mercury can easily accumulate in brain, muscle, hair, and kidney tissue. The effects of mercury toxicity include: 

Interestingly enough, mothers with high levels of omega-3 fats and low levels of mercury had children with the highest cognition scores.

How to Avoid Mercury

I wouldn’t recommend dropping fish altogether, as we know it can be a big part of a healthy diet. What you should do, however, is limit your consumption of fish that are high in mercury.

Swordfish and shark have the highest mercury concentration, followed by king mackerel, tuna, halibut and lobster. Cut back on those types of seafood and instead focus on eating scallops, salmon, shrimp, clams, oysters and sardines, which are relatively safe in comparison. 

3. Phthalates

Phthalates are a class of substances typically added to plastics to increase flexibility. Like BPA, they aren’t tightly bound to anything, they can easily end up in the environment, where they eventually end up in air, food, and dust.

But unlike mercury, phthalates don’t accumulate in the body and are excreted instead. However, this doesn’t mean that they can’t harm us.

To start, phthalates disrupt hormones. One study showed a significant association between phthalates in pregnant women and preterm deliveries. Fertility and reproductive issues are also affected in men, with evidence showing a correlation between phthalates and reduced sperm motility.

Phthalates can also cause problems in infants. One study looked at levels of two common phthalates, MEP and MBP, in maternal breast milk. They found that the higher the level of MEP, the lower the free testosterone in male children. Another study found that new-born children of mothers with high phthalate levels had alertness problems that lasted for years.

Finally, phthalates in high concentrations have also been shown to cause premature sexual development in girls.

Where are Phthalates Found?

The big problem is that phthalates are everywhere. Here are just some of the products in which they are commonly found:

  • Detergents
  • Shampoos
  • Fragrances and perfumes
  • Cosmetics
  • Hair spray
  • Plastic bags
  • Garden hoses
  • Adhesives
  • Cleaning material
  • Insecticides
  • Medical vinyl gloves

One report in 2002 tested levels of phthalates in cosmetic products, and found them in:

  • 71% of all cosmetics, including deodorants and lotions
  • 100% of fragrances
  • 86% of hair gels

The good news is that phthalate use seems to be going down. Results from a 2010 FDA survey shows that only about 10% of cosmetic products overall contain any of the common phthalates, though 11 out of 25 fragrances surveyed still contained phthalates, as did 8 out of 17 hair products.

How to Avoid Phthalates

You’re not going to be able to avoid phthalates 100% in the modern age. However, we can try to limit our exposure to them.

Here are a few things you can do to avoid phthalates:

  • Stay away from store bought makeup, and either make your own or find a phthalate-free brand.
  • Use essential oils as fragrances
  • Avoid hair gels and sprays
  • Skip the conventional cleaners and create natural cleansers from natural ingredients like vinegar, lemon, or baking soda.

Watch this video for the common daily toxic chemicals you should avoid – 5 Chemicals That Are in (Almost) Everything You Eat


Written by Dale Cudmore

Author Bio:

Dale Cudmore is a nutrition writer, chemical engineer & professional soccer player who sees the results of proper nutrition every day in training and games. Connect with him at DaleCudmore.com

Kelsey Alea, is a certified nutritional therapist at PaleoHacks. She is the author of the Keto Slow Cooker Cookbook. The cookbook features 80 mouth-watering Keto slow cooker recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert. It is a perfect cookbook for those who want to indulge, save time in the kitchen, and stay in ketosis.

A lot of people have gotten results from the Keto diet, and enjoyed the foods that it has to offer. However, many of the people who are following this diet have a hard time finding the recipes that they need, especially ones that are quick and easy to complete.

Fortunately, Kelsey Ale, noticed this problem, and decided to do something about it. She’s found that making recipes in a slow cooker gives you meals which are not only delicious, but also take very little time to make. Mostly you just put a few simple ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it do the rest.

To find out more, click on – Keto Slow Cooker Cookbook

How to Prevent Microplastics Toxicity in Personal Care Products?

 

How to prevent microplastics toxicity in personal care products? If you’ve been using products that you didn’t know contained microbeads, it’s time to change them up. There are dozens of healthy, plastic-free alternatives. Here is how to find natural, plastic-free products. Read on to find out more.


Click HERE to Discover these 80 Keto-Friendly and Healthy Slow Cooker Recipes



4 Big Problems with Microplastics (& 4 Natural, Toxic-Free Alternatives)

Microplastics are those super tiny beads (typically around 1 millimeter), that can be found in body and facial scrubs, as well as other personal care products.

While steps are currently being taken to ban these from all products in the future, they can still be found on store shelves now.

So what is the big problem with microplastics? Not only are they chemical particles that come in close contact with your skin, which can absorb toxins, but they also create huge problems for wildlife, fish, and the environment.

4 Big Problems with Microplastics

While it’s common to recognize the dangers of plastic water bottles, or other types of plastic exposure, many don’t realize that microbeads are actually tiny plastic particles.

Conservative estimates show 8 trillion microbeads entering the US water supply every day.  These microplastics are a massive human and environmental problem.

1. Cosmetic Plastic Exposure

Microplastics are used in cosmetics and body care products to exfoliate, sanitize, or increase cleaning power. They can be found in lotions, sanitizers, toothpastes, and body scrubs, as well as other products. They also add color and texture to cosmetic products such as bronzer, blush, lipstick, gloss, and highlighters.

A single tube of facial scrub can contain upwards of 300,000 microbeads.  If you own multiple products that contain microbeads, you could easily have more than a million in your home at any given time.

The problem with microplastics – also referred to as “microbeads” – in cosmetics or personal care products, is that they are comprised of various different types of plastic, which have their own concerning effects on human health. The primary ingredients in microplastics are synthetic polymers, including polyethylene, PLA (polylactide or polylactic acid), polypropylene, polystyrene, and polyethylene terephthalate.

These plastics can have hormone-disrupting effects on the body, most notably, estrogen dominance, since they can trick the body into thinking that they’re synthetic estrogen. This can lead to potential problems with reproductive hormones, thyroid, infertility, and even an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer.

If you’re not sure if the product you’re using contains microbeads or not, look for the previously mentioned plastics in the list of ingredients. Even if one of those specifically isn’t mentioned, if there are any plastic ingredients, or nylon, microbeads could be present.

2. Wildlife Contamination

Microplastics don’t just go away because they get tossed in the trash, or washed down the drain. These tiny little beads make their way into rivers, lakes, and oceans, polluting wildlife, because they are too tiny to be captured by the filters of water treatment plants.

Microplastics don’t have to come directly from this source, though. When larger plastics are littered or escape landfills, wear and tear from the elements, including sun exposure, can degrade larger plastic pieces and break them down, contributing to massive loads of tiny plastic pieces.

When wildlife accidently ingests these microplastics, this can have toxic to fatal consequences. This is especially problematic in fish, and endangered species populations.

Microplastics have been found in numerous kinds of fish, and when they are ingested, these toxins continue to pollute. There is mounting concern about fish consuming microplastics – including the toxins they contain – and then passing them on to humans when the fish are consumed.

3. Gingivitis (Inflammation of the Gums)

If you’re using toothpaste that has the little bead scrubbers in them, there’s a chance those microbeads aren’t actually leaving your mouth. Instead, some dentists worry that they get trapped on the gum line or under it, retaining bacteria that lead to gingivitis, gum disease, and other infections in the mouth.

4. Contaminated Sea Salt

Since microplastics contaminate the sea, sea salt is not exempt from this, and research has found microplastics in sea salt from the shelves of supermarkets. While many opt for sea salt because of its healthy mineral content, they could unknowingly be adding to their plastic body burden.

Bottom line: Microplastics and microbeads pollute wildlife, the environment and our food chain. To make progress towards resolving this massive, global health threat, it is essential to stop using products that contain microplastics.

How to Find Natural, Plastic-Free Products

If you’ve been using products that you didn’t know contained microbeads, it’s time to change them up. There are dozens of healthy, plastic-free alternatives.

Toothpastes

Many of the big name brands use microbeads to increase their scrubbing power. The good news is that you should be avoiding these brands for plenty of other reasons too, including the fact that many of them contain preservatives, fluoride, and other chemicals.

Opt for a natural brand that is plastic-free (read the label), and that is also free from other fake ingredients. While natural toothpastes, like Dr. Bronner’s or Earthpaste, don’t foam as much, they’re actually more efficient at cleaning the mouth without leaving a chemical residue behind.

Bonus: Earthpaste and other clay-based toothpastes can help to remineralize teeth.

Body and Face Scrubs

If it has little scrubbing beads in it, skip it. You can use a natural loofah, or dry brushing, to stimulate and exfoliate your skin. Stick to natural, microbead-free body scrubs, and if you need a face scrub, choose one that uses a natural exfoliant, like sugar or salt.

Eye Shadows and Bronzers

In some mainstream or cheap products, the stuff that gives your eyeshadow and bronzer sheen and sparkle, is actually microplastic pieces. Choose a natural brand that is open about their ingredient sourcing.

Read labels and look up ingredients on EWG.org .

Beauty Counter, Araza, and W3ll People, are three brands that skip microbeads.

Better yet, experiment with natural ingredients like turmeric, cocoa powder and arrowroot powder and try to make your own!

Lipsticks, Balms, and Glosses

Once again, quality matters. That cheap stuff that you pick up at the drugstore, is probably chockful of microplastics, so while it might hurt to spend the extra money that quality, natural brands require, you’re not only protecting your health, but also doing your part to protect the environment.

Again, you can use EWG.org, which scores products by their ingredients.

You can even make your own lipsticks using beet root powder, your own balms and glosses using shea butter with coconut oil.

Bottom line: Investing in microbead-free cosmetics and personal care products is essential for wellness, both for you and the environment. If the price tag of natural brands is too steep, now’s a perfect time to start DIYing these essential items.

Watch these two videos below:

Toxic Cosmetics Ingredients to Avoid


Avoiding toxins in your personal healthcare products


Written by Aimee McNew

Author Bio:

Aimee McNew is a Certified Nutritionist who specializes in women’s health, thyroid problems, infertility, and digestive wellness. She ate her way back to health using a Paleo diet, lost 80 pounds, and had a healthy baby after numerous miscarriages. She focuses on simple nutrition practices that promote long-lasting results.

Kelsey Alea, is a certified nutritional therapist at PaleoHacks. She is the author of the Keto Slow Cooker Cookbook. The cookbook features 80 mouth-watering Keto slow cooker recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert. It is a perfect cookbook for those who want to indulge, save time in the kitchen, and stay in ketosis.

A lot of people have gotten results from the Keto diet, and enjoyed the foods that it has to offer. However, many of the people who are following this diet have a hard time finding the recipes that they need, especially ones that are quick and easy to complete.

Fortunately, Kelsey Ale, noticed this problem, and decided to do something about it. She’s found that making recipes in a slow cooker gives you meals which are not only delicious, but also take very little time to make. Mostly you just put a few simple ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it do the rest.To find out more, click on – Keto Slow Cooker Cookbook

13 Natural Ways to Make Food Last Longer Without Chemical Preservatives

 

Have you ever felt disappointed after prepping your own healthy meals at home, only to find they’ve gone bad, or taste a little “off” by the time you’re ready to eat them? Luckily, there are 13 natural ways to make food last longer without chemical preservatives. Not only will these natural ingredients prevent food from going to waste, but you’ll also avoid the common chemical preservatives found in store-bought foods, such as BHA, BHT, MSG, nitrates, refined vegetable oils, refined sugar, and potassium bromate.


Click HERE to Discover these 80 Keto-Friendly and Healthy Slow Cooker Recipes



Have you ever felt disappointed after prepping your own healthy meals at home, only to find they’ve gone bad, or taste a little “off” by the time you’re ready to eat them? Luckily, there are ten ways to make food last longer, without chemical preservatives.

Not only will these natural ingredients prevent food from going to waste, but you’ll also avoid the common chemical preservatives found in store-bought foods, such as BHA, BHT, MSG, nitrates, refined vegetable oils, refined sugar, and potassium bromate.

The majority of chemical preservatives are linked to health problems (even in minimal amounts) within the nervous and endocrine systems – which is another great reason to avoid processed, packaged, and boxed foods, and get on board with making your meals at home

So, let’s take a look at how you can make your home-cooked meals last even longer.

10 Natural Ways to Make Food Last Longer Without Preservatives

1. Lemon or Lime Juice

The ascorbic acid found in lemon flesh and juice acts as an antioxidant, while the citric acid is a natural antibacterial, and helps preserve the flavour, color and taste of your recipes. Lemon juice also prevents fresh fruit and vegetables from browning (this works especially well on avocados and apples).

Thanks to its antibacterial properties, lemon juice can be used to preserve any plant-based meal. Note: lemon juice isn’t a strong enough preservative for meat.

2. Fermentation

Fermentation is the ultimate way to extend the shelf life of your fruit and vegetables by months. Sauerkraut, kimchi, beet kvass, pickles, onions and garlic are all examples of lacto-fermented foods.

Lacto-fermentation uses water and salt, which prevents the growth of bad bacteria, and allows the good bacteria to thrive. The good bacteria “break down” the sugar in the fruit and veggies, which produces lactic acid. The lactic acid creates the perfect amount of acidity needed to preserve food and protect it from the growth of mold and bacteria.

Lacto-fermentation prevents the growth of bad bacteria, and allows the good bacteria to thrive.

Lacto-fermentation is a simple process (not to mention one of the oldest food preservation tricks) and only requires water, salt, a sterilized jar, and the fruit or veggies of your choice. Lacto-fermented foods can last several months in your pantry, as long as they’re kept in a cool, dry place.

3. Freezing

Freezing is a hassle-free way of making your meals last at least 6 months longer, as long as they’re sealed air-tight, and the freezer is at 0ºF or colder. Baked goods, homemade sauces (spaghetti sauce, chili), fruit, and animal protein can last for up to 6 months in the freezer, and if you include dairy in your diet, dairy lasts between 1-3 months.

Vegetables can be frozen to extend their shelf life too, although fresh veggies (besides tomatoes) should be blanched before freezing, which allows them to retain their nutrients, enzymes, texture, and color.

4. Salt (Curing or Brining)

Salt is the oldest and most effective preservation method. Salt can preserve anything from meat, poultry, and fish, to desserts and vegetables (as we covered in fermentation) because it removes moisture and reduces the amount of water available for bacteria to grow in.

Making a brine with salt and water to preserve meat, and using salt to cure meat (which involves more salt than a brine) can allow it to last several months.

Any kind of salt will preserve meat, but unrefined choices like Celtic or Maldon sea salt is best.

Any kind of salt will preserve meat. However, Himalayan rock salt, Celtic sea salt, or Maldon sea salt are the best choices because they’re unrefined. If you choose Himalayan rock salt, you’ll also get an extra boost of trace minerals.

5. Vinegar (Pickling)

Grandma knew a thing or two! Pickling, which is the process of preserving vegetables with vinegar, allows fresh vegetables, fruit and even eggs to last several months (not to mention, vinegar also enhances their flavor).

The acetic acid in vinegar is the reason why it works well as a natural food preservative. Acetic acid kills the bacteria that spoil food and the acidity creates an environment they can’t survive in.

Most traditional pickling solutions use vinegar, water, salt and sugar, but you can leave the sugar out. While sugar also acts as a natural preservative, it’s mostly intended to add flavor to the produce you’re pickling.

6. Cayenne Pepper

When compared to dill, parsley and green pepper, cayenne pepper showed the strongest antimicrobial activity against yeast, mold and other bacteria on cheese. Chili peppers have even been proposed as an alternative to chemical preservatives in the food industry.

So, spice up your soups, dips, sauces, stews and chilis to help keep them fresh for longer.

7. Rosemary Oil or Extract

As it turns out, the comforting smell of rosemary is only one of its many benefits. Food-grade rosemary essential oil has antioxidant and antimicrobial activity, which has been shown to preserve meat, and prevent fats and oils from going rancid.

8. Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a white powdery substance made from diatoms, which are tiny single-celled algae. It’s best known for being one of the richest sources of silica, but it’s also becoming more popular as a natural food preservative because it repels insects and eliminates moisture.

Food-grade diatomaceous earth can be used to preserve dry pantry foods such as nut flours, quinoa, and even your pet’s food, by layering a small amount on the top, bottom and every three or so inches in between. You can find powdered diatomaceous earth at your local health food store in the supplements aisle.

9. Pure Raw Honey

Honey is considered an ancient preservation method, dating back to prehistoric times, thanks to a range of factors including its unique acidity and ability to suck in moisture. You may have noticed that honey never spoils (as long as it’s not diluted with water or any other substances).

Honey never spoils! Its high concentration of sugar inhibits the growth of bacteria.

That’s because, similar to salt, its high concentration of sugar draws out moisture, which inhibits the growth of yeast and other strains of bacteria, such as staphylococcus aureu. The antioxidants in honey have also been shown to slow down the browning of fresh fruit and vegetables.

10. Garlic

As one of the most powerful foods to eat to kill yeast, bacteria and other viruses in our bodies, it’s no surprise that garlic has the same benefits when added to food.

One study showed that fresh garlic was able to prolong the shelf life of raw camel meat for up to 4 days at room temperature, and 28 days in the refrigerator with no sign of spoilage or microbial growth.

This suggests garlic can increase the potential of other natural food preservation methods, such as brines and pickling, and preserve the freshness of your animal protein dishes, as well as plant-based dishes such as dips, soups and homemade salad dressings.

  • Quick Tricks to Make Your Produce Last Longer

1. Wrap Banana Stems

When you buy a bunch of bananas, take a small piece of leftover plastic wrap and tie it around the bananas stems. Bananas release ethylene gas as they ripen, and the plastic wrap helps contain the gas, which slows down the ripening process.

2. Water and Vinegar Soak

A water and vinegar soak helps make berries last longer. Place your berries in a large bowl, and add 1 part of white vinegar and 10 parts filtered water. Mix, drain, rinse, dry and refrigerate in a glass airtight container.

3. The “Bouquet” Method

For herbs, leafy greens, asparagus, and any other vegetable with a stem, you can make them last longer by cutting their stems (as you would with a bouquet of flowers) and placing them in a glass jar filled with 1 inch of filtered water.

Place your produce stem down, and use a reusable plastic bag to cover the top of the veggie. Refrigerate.

Want more tips to make food last longer without chemical preservatives? Watch this video – How To Make Produce Last Longer & Reduce Waste – 25+ Tips


By Brandi Black

Author Bio:

Brandi Black is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist and the creator of Feel Best Naked, a health blog for women who want to clear up their skin, lose the muffin top and make the bloat disappear. After years of experiencing (and then healing) her own unbalanced hormones, she’s now obsessed with helping other women feel spectacular in their own skin with natural remedies for hormone balance.

Kelsey Alea, is a certified nutritional therapist at PaleoHacks. She is the author of the Keto Slow Cooker Cookbook. The cookbook features 80 mouth-watering Keto slow cooker recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert. It is a perfect cookbook for those who want to indulge, save time in the kitchen, and stay in ketosis.

A lot of people have gotten results from the Keto diet, and enjoyed the foods that it has to offer. However, many of the people who are following this diet have a hard time finding the recipes that they need, especially ones that are quick and easy to complete.

Fortunately, Kelsey Ale, noticed this problem, and decided to do something about it. She’s found that making recipes in a slow cooker gives you meals which are not only delicious, but also take very little time to make. Mostly you just put a few simple ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it do the rest.

To find out more, click on – Keto Slow Cooker Cookbook

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