And how to get rid of them.
We all remember the days of scary monsters lurking in our closest, waiting to jump out and scare us. Although we know that there were no scary monsters waiting to get us as kids, the majority of the population might not realize they probably have some terrifying "monsters" lurking in their homes now.
Scary Monster No. 1 - Carcinogens
The "C" word that no one wants to hear, and too many people have been faced with. Cancer. But did you know that carcinogens (cancer-causing chemicals) are rampant in items and foods we use every day. Air fresheners, furniture, pest control products, plastic food containers, fried foods- the list goes on.
Scary Monster No. 2 - Phthalates
Dr. Axe states- "Phthalates are chemical compounds that are commonly added to plastics to increase their flexibility, transparency, durability and longevity... Diet is believed to be the main source of phthalates because fatty foods such as milk, butter and meats are commonly packaged or stored in plastics containing this dangerous toxin."
Scary Monster No. 3 - Parabens
Although the topic is still being investigated, a huge concern with the use of parabens is the potential of parabens being hormone disruptors. Parabens are used as a preservative and are found in personal care items such as toothpaste, lotion, makeup, hair products, and even food items.
Enough Doom and Gloom- how do we handle it?
Although it does require a little extra brain power, with a methodical and calm approach you can eliminate much of these toxins with simple swaps! It's as simple as choosing a nontoxic option when your usual choice runs out. Here are some ideas to get those ideas flowing:
-- Ditch the pesticides for diatomaceous earth, cinnamon powder, or even flowers to control the bugs.
-- Swap your plasticware for glass.
-- Throw out the Febreze and use our Haven Spray.
-- Opt for glass bottles of milk (raw milk in glass bottles from the local dairy = bliss!)
-- Swap the drugstore makeup for clean brands (Crunchi is my personal fave)
-- Set aside a little time to learn how to make your own toothpaste, or join a local Crunchy Mom facebook group to find recommendations
(my alltime favorite group is https://www.facebook.com/groups/HealthyHappyHomemaker/)
I know it seems overwhelming, but if you make one small change each week, you're gonna look up in six months or a year and see just how far you've come. Plug into a crunchy community (like the facebook group I linked) and you'll be encouraged in your journey! You only get one life, so make it a good one! I'm cheering you on!