Decreasing toxins doesn’t mean you have to throw everything away and start over. There are simple steps to a non-toxic lifestyle you can take. Keep reading to see a non toxic cookware guide and easy swaps you can make.
Ways to live a less toxic lifestyle
After having my first son, I began to look for simple ways to live a less toxic lifestyle. My oldest was born with a severe allergy to the casein protein in milk products. After his diagnosis I became acutely aware of the harm an allergy can have on the body.
I also couldn’t consume milk products due to breastfeeding him. I started to read labels, and was surprised at the amount of unrelated ingredients that are added to every day foods. This is what inspired me to dig deeper into our products and foods.
If you’re wanting to make changes to live a less toxic lifestyle, it can seem overwhelming. There are so many harmful chemicals to be aware of.
Luckily you don’t have to change everything all at once. Here are some simple ways to decrease the toxins in your life.
***This post may contain affiliate links which means I make a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read my full disclosure here.*
Choosing the right food to live a less toxic lifestyle
It’s important to choose the right foods to live a less toxic lifestyle. I know you’ve seen the lawsuits surrounding herbicides and fertilizers. These toxic chemicals are used on commercially grown food to reduce pests and increase production.
There is a long list of side effects and diseases exposure to these chemicals can cause. Read this interesting article regarding one lawsuit here.
Washing your produce can remove some of the chemicals, but many pre-packaged foods still contain them. I’m not telling you to run out and buy all organic produce, but be particular when buying packaged foods.
Consider growing food at home. You’ll be surprised at how much food a small garden area can produce. Also, homegrown crops that are in season carry a lot more nutritional value. Check out these simple raised bed ideas.
Also, you should choose whole foods over pre-packaged foods whenever possible. Commercially grown produce is still better than over processed foods. Convenience doesn’t equal quality.
The preservatives and cheap oils/sweeteners used to make packaged food can wreak havoc on your digestive tract, and cause major hormone imbalances.
Learning to can your own food at home can be a game changer when it comes to having healthy “convenience” options at home.
Also, our FDA frequently approves ingredients that are outlawed in other countries. Buying whole foods and making things from scratch will help in avoiding harmful chemicals.
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Choosing the right products to live a less toxic lifestyle
It was an interest in food ingredients that led me to looking at product ingredients. Many of the products we use daily contain ingredients that cause allergies, cancer, organ toxicity, and endocrine disruptors.
Anyone who has ever had an adverse reaction to a product can vouch for the effects of some chemicals.
One of the biggest culprits for these reactions is “fragrance”. Fragrance is a word companies use to disguise harmful ingredients because it is widely unregulated by the FDA.
Eliminating products with fragrance listed as an ingredient is a simple way to reduce toxic load. Visit the Environmental Working group website and see harmful ingredients for yourself here.
Buy fragrance free products if possible, and check the product’s ingredients.
Also, eliminate scented candles and plugins, and try using a quality essential oil and a diffuser. Pinterest has lots of great essential oil recipes for popular candle dupes. Check out how to make your own beeswax candles!
Taking care of your body
It’s no secret that a healthy body will fight disease better than an unhealthy one. But what does this really mean? The body usually runs like a well-oiled machine. It communicates with itself via hormones and other methods.
Harmful ingredients in the products we use can disrupt these signals. Choosing good food, and cleaner products helps the body to keep running as it should.
Another way to keep your body working properly is to move it regularly. This helps to regulate hormones, boosts the immune system, improve circulation, and improve overall mental health.
Try getting out and moving everyday. See the effects it has on your mood and energy levels. A short walk after dinner will make more room for glucose to be stored in the muscles, and reduce the amount of stored fat.
Everyday household Items Can be Toxic
Some of the Items we use daily around the house also have toxins. Making easy swaps will help in living a less toxic lifestyle. Some of the plastics in our home contain Bisphenol A, (BPA), which has been linked to endocrine disruption.
Glass containers are one of the best options for a healthy home kitchen. Unlike plastic containers, which can contain harmful chemicals like BPAs (bisphenol A), glass is made from natural materials like silicon dioxide (the main ingredient in sand), making it a much safer choice. Let’s break down why glass is a better option, and explore other storage solutions like silicone bags.
Why Glass is Better than Plastic
Plastics containing BPAs can leach chemicals into your food, especially when heated or used with acidic foods. These chemicals are linked to various health concerns, like hormone disruption. Even plastic containers labeled “BPA-free” may still contain other harmful chemicals, which can be just as bad.
Glass storage containers don’t have any of these health concerns. They don’t react with food, stain, or absorb odors, making them the high-quality, safe choice.
Guide to Glass Containers
- Look for tempered glass: This type of glass is stronger and more resistant to breaking, which is perfect for the bumps of everyday use in a home kitchen.
- Check for airtight lids: Most glass storage containers come with airtight lids that help keep food fresh for longer. Make sure the lids fit snugly and don’t contain BPA if they’re plastic. Some come with silicone seals, which are great because silicone is also non-toxic.
- Opt for various sizes: Having a mix of small, medium, and large containers is handy for different types of food storage, from leftover dinner to chopped fruits and veggies.
Silicone Storage Bags vs. Plastic
Silicone storage bags are a fantastic, reusable alternative to single-use plastic bags. They’re made from food-grade silicone, which doesn’t leach harmful chemicals into your food, even when heated.
Unlike plastic, silicone can withstand high heat, so you can use these bags for cooking, freezing, and storing. They also help cut down on waste because they’re durable and can be used again and again.
Plastic bags, on the other hand, often end up in the trash after one use, and they can release microplastics over time. Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that have been found in our water, food, and even the air we breathe. These particles can cause environmental harm and may lead to health concerns, although researchers are still studying the full effects.
The Problem with Microplastics
Microplastics are everywhere, and that’s bad news. Over time, plastic items break down into these tiny particles, which can get into our food and water. Studies suggest that consuming microplastics can lead to long-term health problems, though the full impact is still being researched.
One of the best ways to avoid microplastics in your kitchen is by switching to glass containers and reusable silicone bags, which are free of toxic chemicals.
Your Best Options:
- Glass containers: Best option for storing food safely, without the risk of BPAs or other harmful chemicals.
- Silicone storage bags: Reusable, durable, and can handle high temperatures. A much better choice than plastic bags.
- Avoid plastic containers and bags: They can contain BPAs and contribute to microplastic pollution. Try using beeswax wrap instead.
By using high-quality glass containers and silicone bags, you can make your kitchen healthier and reduce waste, all while keeping your food safe from harmful chemicals.
Non Toxic Cookware Guide
When choosing non-toxic cookware, it’s important to avoid harmful chemicals like PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These chemicals, which include perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), are used in some non-stick coatings and can cause health issues, like liver damage, when they leach into food or release toxic fumes when heated to high temperatures. Even some modern non-stick cookware and nonstick pans can still contain traces of these chemicals, so it’s good to be cautious.
Here’s a non toxic cookware guide to help you pick safer options:
1. Stainless Steel Cookware
Stainless steel is a great choice because it doesn’t contain harmful chemicals and holds up well under high heat. It’s durable and can handle everyday cooking without scratching or wearing down. Stainless steel doesn’t react with acidic foods like tomatoes, so you’re safe from heavy metals or toxic chemicals getting into your food. Just be careful not to burn food onto it, as cleaning off burnt bits can be tough!
2. Cast Iron Cookware
Cast iron pans are heavy and super tough. When properly seasoned (which means coating them with oil and heating them), they develop a natural non-stick surface. They are perfect for high-heat cooking, like frying or baking. The best part is, they don’t have any chemical coatings to worry about. However, cast iron can leach small amounts of iron into food, which is usually a good thing but might be a concern for people with too much iron in their bodies.
3. Ceramic Cookware
Ceramic cookware is another non-toxic option. Pure ceramic doesn’t contain harmful chemicals like PFAS or PFOA, making it a safe choice. However, be aware that some ceramic-coated cookware might wear down over time, especially at high heat. Once the ceramic coating starts chipping, it may lose its non-stick properties and expose the material underneath, which could have harmful chemicals. Pure ceramic cookware is better for lower temperatures and gentle cooking.
4. Stoneware for Baking
Stoneware is great for baking and is generally free from toxic chemicals. It holds heat well and cooks food evenly. Stoneware doesn’t have a non-stick coating, so you usually need to grease it before use. It’s a fantastic option for those who bake a lot and want a chemical-free cooking surface. However, avoid drastic temperature changes (like putting cold stoneware in a hot oven), as it can crack.
What to Avoid
When shopping for cookware, be sure to skip pans with non-stick coatings unless they specifically say they are free of PFAS, PFOA, or other toxic chemicals. Non-stick pans, especially older ones, can release toxic fumes when heated to high temperatures, which is bad for your health. Look for labels like “PFOA-free” or “ceramic non-stick” to make sure you’re not buying cookware with harmful chemicals.
Non Toxic Cookware Guide:
- Stainless steel: Durable and chemical-free.
- Cast iron: Great for high heat and naturally non-stick when seasoned.
- Ceramic: Safe when pure, but ceramic-coated pans can wear down.
- Stoneware: Excellent for baking, free from harmful chemicals.
By sticking to these materials, you can cook with confidence, knowing you’re avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals like PFAS and heavy metals. It’s worth investing in high-quality cookware that can handle high heat and keep your food safe.
Switching Utensils to Decease Toxins
When you’re choosing utensils for cooking, it’s important to think about what they’re made of because some can contain harmful chemicals.
For example, certain plastic or metal utensils might leach chemicals into your food, especially when exposed to heat. These chemicals could lead to health risks, like hormone disruption or even birth defects. There’s also been some concern about aluminum utensils contributing to Alzheimer’s disease.
The best cooking utensils are made of stainless steel or wood. Stainless steel is a great option because it’s strong, heat-resistant, and doesn’t leach chemicals into your food. Wooden utensils are also a fantastic choice since they’re natural, safe, and won’t scratch your pans.
Swapping out old plastic or questionable metal utensils for stainless steel or wooden ones is an inexpensive change that can make a big difference. You can find both types at affordable prices, and they last a long time, keeping your kitchen healthier and safer without breaking the bank. So, if you’re looking to reduce health risks, switching to these utensils is a simple way to start!
Non Toxic Cookware Guide-Final Thoughts
Don’t immediately throw out all of your food, products and candles all at once. My intention is not to create fear, but to make others aware of what is potentially lurking in the things we regularly use.
I would suggest simply looking at the ingredients in your products and determining for yourself whether or not you’re comfortable using it on yourself or your children. I feel knowledge is power and I hope that I’ve provided a little of that for you!
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