Six Fishes has a clinical focus on the treatment of infertility. If you’re trying to conceive, we recommend detoxing your house.
A growing concern is the effect of toxins on hormonal balance. In 2014, the New York Times reported that plastics and phthalates are well known to be hormone disruptors in women. I would expand that to include male fertility as well. The article explores how they disrupt healthy sperm production.
We strongly recommend that all people treated for infertility take the time to detoxify their homes from plastic’s damaging effects. New Year’s is the perfect time to purge your home; so throw out the plastic containers and use glass for food storage. One good thing: Phthalates enter and leave your system relatively quickly.
We all know about the visible toxins in the environment, like smog and pollutants in the water. But what about the ones that sneak up on us, hidden even in our homes?
Endocrine disruptors mimic the naturally occurring hormones in our bodies, such as estrogen, androgen, and thyroid hormones, and cause a body response. They may block, inhibit, or induce an inappropriate bodily reaction, making them a catalyst for a wide range of health problems.
Unfortunately, there are large amounts of endocrine disruptors present in our daily lives. They range from BPAs in water bottles, PCBs in cosmetics, and even in some of our food.
We can avoid these chemicals by making a few simple changes:
Here are our top 4 tips:
1. Make the switch to glass.
Switch from plastic containers for water bottles to reusable glass containers. Not only can we reduce the amount of waste in the environment, but we also avoid BPAs. Switching to glass is also a safer option in storing foods, as fatty foods tend to absorb disruptors like phthalates easier, and phthalates are released in extreme temperatures – similar to when we reheat leftovers or store them in the freezer.
2. Switch to natural cosmetics.
Our skin is the largest organ of our body! We apply these products directly to our skin, and they are quickly be absorbed. Interestingly, European safety standards in the beauty industry surpass those in the US, so it may be worth considering using European products or taking a tip from Alicia Keys and wear less makeup altogether. You’re beautiful just the way you are!
There are also alternative options to shampoos and conditioners, perfumes, and sunscreens, which tend to be full of parabens. Parabens were introduced in cosmetics to prevent bacteria growth in the product. However, they are xenoestrogens, which mimic and disrupt natural estrogen production. Use caution when purchasing, and be sure to look for other known disruptors such as oxybenzone. Check out our blog on sunscreen and more summer skin tips here.
3. Consider your clothes!
Makeup isn’t the only thing we are applying to our skin. Look for all-natural detergents, and try using an alternative to dryer sheets, such as moistening a cloth with water and adding essential oil to toss in with your clothes. They have woolen balls that you can put in the dryer to help soften them. Or grab a tennis ball.
4. Try using green cleaning products, too.
Vinegar and baking soda can be as effective as well-known specialty brands and won’t leave streaks, either. Are you looking for some more ideas? Pop over to our Pinterest board for more insights on homemade detergent, disinfectants, and cleaners.
What are some of your tips and mindful switches around the house? Share your strategies with us!
