Michael A. Smith, MD - Practical Advice for Avoiding Environmental Toxins

January 11, 2012
Gary Null in Environment, Toxic Pollution

Nearly 70,000 industrial chemicals are now found in our everyday products, with 1,000 new synthetic chemicals introduced each year. Only a fraction of these have been tested for safety in humans.^1,2 EPA estimates suggest that the average American could be carrying approximately 700 industrial chemicals in their bodies.³ How’s that for TMI?

While it is not possible to completely eliminate toxin/toxicant exposure from all sources, there are ways to minimize it. Here are a few:

• Limit your exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This type of toxin is found in common household items like air fresheners, carpet cleaners and even disinfectants. Purchase products that are labeled as low VOC.

• Store food in containers labeled as bisphenol A (BPA)-free or phthalate-free. Don’t heat food in plastic containers.

  
  

  Look for organic produce, which is grown without pesticides, and will contain fewer residues than conventionally-produced fruits and vegetables. It turns out that washing food with plain water is just as effective in getting rid of pesticides as produce wash solutions. Peeling skins off of produce may help to further lower pesticide levels; however, the peel contains fiber and important nutrients.

  Read More:

  http://blog.lef.org/2012/01/how-to-avoid-environmental-toxins.html

Article originally appeared on The Gary Null Blog (http://www.garynullblog.com/).