We all agree that we are what we eat (or, if you're a holistic nutritionist, we are what we digest and assimilate). But, have you ever considered that we are how we live? Making our homes as natural -- thus, healthy -- as our bodies is an important component to our well-being.
The growing list of controversial chemicals that can make their way into our homes is enough to make anyone want to pack up and move to the country. But it doesn't have to be so overwhelming. You can make easy, gradual changes that will leave a lasting impact on the health of your family.
From hands to feet
Begin with that first foot in the door: Removing “outside” shoes can drastically decrease the number of toxins, chemicals and bacteria that come from the outdoors.
Add another great habit that's as simple as soap and water: Wash your hands! This may seem obvious, but frequent hand-washing is the best way to cut down on infection-causing germs. Interestingly, despite the array of ”antibacterial” products that exist, the Canadian Paediatric Society and the American Medical Association agree that antibacterial soaps are no more effective at fighting infection than plain soap and water.1 In fact, increased use of antibacterial products can contribute to bacterial resistance, which considerably reduces the efficacy of the antibiotics we've always relied on.
Kitchen care
In the kitchen, replace plastic containers with ones made of glass; glass is a much healthier way to store and reheat food. You've probably heard about the suspected dangers of Bisphenol A, a chemical in polycarbonate plastic – which many of our baby bottles are made with. After certain studies linked this chemical to reproductive problems in mice,2,3 people became very concerned. Although no recalls have yet been made, and while Health Canada is reviewing the information (a statement is expected in May), use your best judgment. In the meantime, switch to BPA-free products, and stop microwaving the ones you have.
Spring clean, inside and out
Finally, spring is right around the corner. With the warmer weather comes a wonderful opportunity to create a healthy oasis for your family. Eliminate dandelions the old-fashioned way (or get the kids involved and pay them a quarter per root pulled); grow a garden of heirloom tomatoes; open windows, sweep floors and dry out any moisture-trapping areas, like bathrooms and basements, during your spring-cleaning. Want to repaint a room -- sure! But do so with a low- or no- VOC paint. And don't forget to add indoor plants for more oxygen and beauty.
Treat your home like the cozy – and clean, healthy, pure – castle you've always dreamed of living in. Your family's health and happiness will benefit for years to come.
References:
- Paediatrics & Child Health 2006; 11(3):169-173.
- Murray, TJ, MV. Maffini, AA Ucci, C Sonnenschein and AM Soto. 2006. Induction of mammary gland ductal hyperplasias and carcinoma in situ following fetal bisphenol A exposure. Reproductive Toxicology 23: 383-390
- Calafat, AM, Z Kuklenyik, JA Reidy, SP Caudill, J Ekong, LL Needham. 2005. Urinary Concentrations of Bisphenol A and 4-Nonylphenol in a Human Reference Population. Environmental Health Perspectives 113:391-395.
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