As a health-focused scribe, I often find myself drowning in various health suggestions. Here's my approach to setting priorities in the sea of wellness guidance.
In today's world, it's essential to be mindful of the substances we encounter daily and their potential impact on our health. Here are some recommended steps to help reduce exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals and microplastics in your everyday life.
Firstly, consider swapping your plastic containers for glass or stainless steel ones, especially for storing hot or fatty foods. This simple change can prevent chemical leaching and reduce microplastic contamination [1][2][4].
Secondly, filter your tap water using certified systems that remove PFAS, chlorine byproducts, and microplastics. Avoid drinking from plastic bottles or directly from tap water without filtration [1][2][4]. The Environmental Working Group offers a tap water database to search drinking-water quality by ZIP code and a guide to pick a water filtration system [5].
When it comes to personal care products, choose those that are fragrance-free, phthalate-free, and paraben-free, or opt for those with natural essential oils. This will help reduce hormone-disrupting chemical absorption through the skin [1][4]. Online databases like SkinSafeProducts.com and Skin Deep from the Environmental Working Group can help you find safer options [6].
It's also advisable to limit your consumption of canned and highly processed foods, which tend to contain higher levels of BPA and microplastics. Instead, prefer fresh or frozen options and conscious sourcing, especially for alcohol and seafood [2].
Reduce the use of scented candles and air fresheners, which release harmful chemicals. Opt for beeswax candles with essential oils or unscented alternatives instead [1].
Choose organic produce when possible to decrease pesticide exposure. If organic options aren't available, use baking soda washes on non-organic fruits and vegetables to reduce residues [1].
To support your microbiome and potentially mitigate some effects of endocrine disruptors, increase your intake of fiber-rich, flavonoid-rich, fermented, and probiotic foods [3].
Regular physical activity may also support the body's detoxification processes and reduce levels of chemicals like PFAS [3]. Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity and two days of strength training a week, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [7].
Lastly, remember that small, manageable steps are the most sustainable way to alter diet and exercise habits [8]. Starting with personal care or home products to which you aren't particularly attached is a good place to start [9].
By implementing these steps, you can collectively contribute to lowering the toxic burden from endocrine disruptors and microplastics in your everyday life, balancing practicality with effective exposure reduction [1][2][3][4].
For more information and tools designed to improve your well-being, sign up for CNN's Life, But Better newsletter [10]. The quality of social connections is also an important aspect of longevity [11]. Regular exercise, good sleep, and a balanced, plant-based diet have consistently shown to be key in a healthy, long life [12]. Studies have also shown the importance of reducing sodium and sugar for longer lives with less risk of chronic disease [13].
In conclusion, by focusing on the most immediate things, such as eating enough, sleeping well, getting good movement, and seeing friends and family, you can make a significant impact on your health and well-being.
- To optimize your health and wellness, consider adopting a life filled with fitness and exercise, mental health support, nutrition, education and self-development, and personal growth.2.Successfully managing career development and maintaining an active presence on social media can also contribute positively to your overall well-being.3.Remember that quality sleep is indispensable for a balanced mind and body, as it is essential for the restoration of mental and physical health.
- Balancing your daily life is crucial in promoting health – focus on nourishing yourself through quality nutrition, regular exercise, and a well-rounded approach to wellness.
- Consider making lifestyle changes to reduce your exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals and microplastics, such as investing in glass or stainless steel containers and filtering your tap water.
- Seek out resources, like CNN's Life, But Better newsletter, to obtain more information about health, wellness, and practical strategies for a fulfilling life.
