Monday, April 7, 2014

Your Health and the Environment


I believe most of us are committed to good health and have daily activities and routines we follow to help support our health. We exercise, take natural supplements, drink a high-protein smoothie, drink water, wear sunscreen...the list goes on! 
All these small steps taken day in and day out lead to a stronger and healthier YOU!
While all of those things are an excellent way to be healthy, I want to be sure you aren’t missing an important part of the health puzzle by being exposed to chemicals in your environment.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) tracks more than 84,000 chemicals used in commerce.  These chemicals, have worked their way into our everyday lives. Now, no matter how clean you try to live, it is impossible to escape exposure from these chemicals that may put an amazingly heavy burden on our liver and other detoxification pathways in our bodies. Chemicals are found in the food we eat, clothes we wear, personal care products we use, and even the very products that we use to keep our homes clean and safe.
Take a look at the chemicals found in common household cleaners:
NameFound inPotentially harmful effects
PhthalatesSolvents used to make fragrancesEndocrine disrupters: Men with high levels of phthalates in their blood have reduced sperm counts.
Perchloroethylene(PERC)Dry-cleaning solution, spot removers, carpet cleanersThe EPA classifies PERC as a possible carcinogen and has ordered a phase-out of the chemical by 2020.
TriclosanAn antibacterial found in dishwashing detergents and hand soapsLeads to drug-resistant bacteria and is a possible hormone disrupter.
2-ButoxyethanolMostly found in window cleaners, is responsible for the sweet smellGeneral irritant when inhaled, at high levels can damage lungs, liver, and kidneys
AmmoniaFound in many cleaning productsWhen inhaled, it can irritate the lungs and potentially worsen asthma.
ChlorineAnother ubiquitous chemical, found in toilet bowl cleaner, mildew removers, laundry products, and even tap waterChlorine is very reactive and irritates skin and lungs. It may disrupt the thyroid.
While it can be daunting to think that we are surrounded by so many chemicals, the good news is that there are fantastic natural choices that will do the job these chemicals do just as well without exposing you and your family to potentially harmful fumes, solvents, and toxins.
Be sure you only have safe, green cleaners under your sink and in your laundry. Choosing green cleaners means that you are doing the best for your health, the environment, and your family’s well-being! My family exclusively uses Shaklee green cleaners...they're safe, nontoxic, they work and are saving us a ton of money!
What is your favorite green cleaning tip?
Thank you to Dr. Jamie McManus for contributing much of this information!


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