If you are aware of the many toxins around us, your first question is probably: how do I avoid them? While complete avoidance is not always possible, there are simple steps you can take to significantly reduce your exposure to these harmful substances.
For more information about toxins, we refer you to our previous blog: What are summer toxins and how do they affect your health?
Here are some practical tips to protect yourself against toxins, especially during the summer months:
- Choose organic food
Eating organic can help you avoid many of the chemicals, antibiotics, and fertilizers used in conventional agricultural products. Especially with products from the “dirty dozen list,” such as strawberries, spinach, apples, and bell peppers, it is advisable to choose organic options due to their high concentration of pesticides. The “dirty dozen list” is a list compiled annually by the Environmental Working Group and shows which fruits and vegetables contain the most pesticides.
- Avoid plastic and cans when storing and heating food
Plastic packaging can release tiny particles that end up in your food, especially when heated. Try to store food in plastic containers as little as possible and use glass packaging instead. Also, bring your own reusable mug or thermos for hot drinks to avoid plastic cups.
- Choose natural personal care products
Many personal care products contain toxins that you would rather avoid. In sunscreen products alone, you will find a substantial list of toxic substances:
- Oxybenzone
- Sulisobenzone
- Enzacamene
- Homosalate (Homomenthyl Salicylate)
- Octinoxate (Octylmethoxycinnamate)
- Octocrylene
- Padimate O (Para-aminobenzoic acid or Paba)
Consider natural alternatives for sunscreen, makeup, deodorant, shampoo, and other personal care products. There are many natural variants available today that are just as effective without harmful chemicals.
- Use natural cleaning products
Avoid cleaning products and detergents that are full of chemicals. Instead, choose natural alternatives such as vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. These are just as effective and much friendlier to the environment and your health.
- Install a water filter
Our drinking water can also contain toxins, such as antibiotics and endocrine-disrupting substances. Therefore, consider installing a water filter on your tap to remove these harmful substances and ensure clean and safe drinking water.
By applying these simple tips, you can effectively protect yourself against toxins and improve your health, not only in the summer, but all year round.
6. Last but not least: Nourish your body with antioxidants
In addition to avoiding toxins, supporting your body with the right nutrients is an essential step in protecting against harmful substances and free radicals.
Personalized advice
While diet is an important source of antioxidants, you may not always get enough to meet your daily needs. Supplements can be a useful addition to ensure your body gets all the necessary nutrients. Would you like to know which supplements can provide good support this summer? Request our personalized supplement advice so one of our therapists can take a targeted look at your lifestyle, symptoms, and wishes. This way, you can be sure that you are taking the right supplements, combinations, and dosages!
