Our bodies are truly a gift from God. They're the most important resource we'll ever have, and in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, we are tasked with honoring God by caring for the "temples" that are our bodies. However, the modern world makes this difficult. There are many toxins to avoid if you want a healthier life, but sadly, many of these have worked their way into our daily lives.
Such toxins can disrupt our minds, bodies, and spirits. Fortunately, this isn't something you have to merely accept. By understanding the most important toxins to avoid, you can start working towards a more healthy and fulfilling life. While plenty of culprits exist, the following are the primary toxins to cut from your life. Fortunately, they're also among the simplest to leave behind.
1. Processed Foods and Additives
Unhealthy diets are a leading cause of health issues across the globe. Many people believe they're good simply because they avoid fast food, but the reality is that processed foods and additives likely fill up most of our pantries. Highly processed foods and a range of additives can lead to a variety of health issues:
- Disruption of gut health
- Hormonal imbalances
- Increased risk of chronic diseases
- Allergies and sensitivities
- Cellular damage
The reality is that God didn't put processed foods or additives into what we eat. This is a man-made issue, but it's also one we can work to overcome. Shop the perimeter of your grocery store. This is where fresh produce, meats, dairy, and whole foods are kept. You should also choose foods with no ingredient labels (e.g., apples, eggs, fish).
When a label is present, look for five ingredients or fewer. You should also buy organic or local foods when possible and avoid "Frankenfoods" with high-fructose corn syrup, hydrogenated oils, or "flavor enhancers" like MSG. Nothing Jesus ever ate contained such ingredients, so it's clear that we don't need them either.
2. Plastic Chemicals (BPA, Phthalates)
Some of the most difficult toxins to avoid in our daily lives are those contained in plastic products. These chemicals — such as BPA and phthalates — are found in water bottles, food containers, cellophane wraps, and even personal care products. Such chemicals can cause:
- Hormonal disruption
- Fertility issues
- Developmental problems in children
- Cellular disruption
- Certain types of cancers
It's surprising to learn just how many products contain such chemicals. Fortunately, simple changes can help you avoid health issues. Proverbs 4:7 tells us that understanding is the beginning of wisdom. Now that you know of these dangerous toxins to avoid, you can make simple changes like using stainless steel and glass for food and beverages. Also, avoid personal care products with ingredients like phthalates, BPA, or anything with "poly" in its name.
3. Household Cleaners and Air Fresheners
Keeping a clean and fresh home is critical for maintaining a sense of peace in your life. Unfortunately, hidden enemies may lurk in the products you use to achieve this peace. Many common household products are loaded with toxins that can cause health disruption over time. Just consider some of the most heinous culprits:
- Disinfecting wipes
- Air fresheners
- Laundry detergent
- All-purpose cleaners and degreasers
- Non-stick cookware (Teflon)
- Shampoos, soaps, and body washes
There are plenty of natural, non-toxic alternatives to the cleaners and air fresheners we use most in our lives. Just be vigilant when shopping or checking out online marketplaces. You'll find what you need!
4. Personal Care Products
Many personal care products contain not only plastic chemicals but also parabens, fragrance, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), formaldehyde, oxybenzone, and more. Of course, no one expects you to stop using personal care products. However, it is possible to make better choices. After all, anything you put on your body gets absorbed by your skin.
Brands such as Earth Mama Organics, Primally Pure, Dr. Bronner's, 100% Pure, Babo Botanicals, and Badger offer healthier alternatives. Keep in mind that this list is far from exhaustive, so do a little research and find the simple, clean brand that's best for you.
5. Negative Media Consumption
Most of the everyday toxins to avoid for a healthier life are related to what we have in, on, and around our bodies. However, it's not just physical toxins that can negatively affect our wellness. Stress is a primary cause of many diseases, and negative media consumption greatly increases the weight we place on our mental and physical well-being.
Put simply, guarding our hearts and minds is just as important as protecting our bodies. Philippians 4:8 tells us to focus our thoughts on positive and virtuous things. Make intentional choices in what you watch, read, and listen to. What your mind intakes will stick with you, so make sure it's worth having around.
If all this information seems overwhelming, rest your heart. Remember, the goal is not perfection but rather progress and faithfulness. We all have areas for improvement, but you can find what's right in your life through prayerful reflection and consideration of what changes God may be calling you to make.
When focusing on the toxins to avoid in your daily life, the most important thing is purposeful action. Colossians 3:23 tells us to work at whatever we do with all our hearts, as though we're working for the Lord and not humans. Keep this in mind as you work for a healthier life, and you'll achieve all you set out for.
