Reducing Your Toxic Burden

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has noted that there is a rise in exposure to volatile organic compounds or VOCs. VOCs are all around us. They are primarily created by evaporation of chemicals.

Common Sources of VOCs include: Gasoline, paints, stains, strippers, pesticides, personal care products, aerosol sprays, household cleaners, and new furniture, carpet, rugs, and wood floors. Chemicals contained in these sources include benzene, formaldehyde, and acetone.

It is important to examine your daily routines for exposure to VOCs because exposure can lead to several symptoms including: eye, nose and throat irritation; headaches; nausea; liver, kidney and central nervous system damage; loss of coordination and more. Since some of these chemicals have even proven to be carcinogenic, it’s time to toss those toxins and start reducing your toxic burden to achieve a healthier life.

Indoor VOC levels are often two to five times greater than outdoor levels due to the many household products that emit toxins. Cleaning products are going to be
one of the biggest culprits and alternative cleaning methods was covered in a previous post. Recent studies have shown that the majority of synthetic, brand-name air fresheners are toxic as well, adding to an already high toxicity level in most homes. For the health and well-being of everyone in the home, stop using store-bought, brand-name air fresheners and make a few of the following changes.

First, consider baking. Store-bought baked goods aren’t any better than store-bought air fresheners. Kill two birdswith one stone and bake chocolate chip cookies using organic ingredients. The kids will be happy and the house will smell yummy.

Second, purchase some indoor plants. While they will not greatly affect the smell, broad green leaf plants are good for filtering interior air. Peace Lilies are a good choice.

Third, boil some fresh herbs. A combination of cinnamon, cloves, orange peel, or any other similar herb will be a pleasant scent.

Finally, essential oils can work as both a pleasant scent and aromatherapy. Sprinkle an essential oil on a cotton ball and stash it in the corner of a room. Be sure to keep it out of reach of both children and pets as they are strong and can be toxic if swallowed. Lavender is a relaxing scent that is great for bedrooms. Cinnamon, clove and citrus oils work well in the rest of the house. This can also be used in the car; a couple drops of peppermint can be a refreshing scent when driving.

At times it is unavoidable to work with chemical compounds. When using things like paint, stripper, varnish, petroleum products, etc make sure that you are working in a well ventilated area. Don’t let the fumes build-up. Consider purchasing an air cleansing machine in order to remove harmful chemicals from the air. At our office we use a Triad Aer and it works like a breeze. Check out their website to learn more about their system and how it may help your health. Use code NE-PLAT20375 at check-out for a discount.

Finally, you should examine your cosmetics and beauty products to see if they are providing an unhealthy dose of VOCs. I really like using Environmental Working Group to check my common household products to discover which to keep and which to ditch. The goal is to lessen your overall toxic burden and every little bit can add up to a healthier lifestyle. Don’t wait to start reducing your toxic burden. Start making small changes to improve your health and make your environment a clean one.