There are some common myths about living a non-toxic lifestyle and some of them are true or contain truth, but many are simple assumptions. Maybe you have some questions about this lifestyle and some of these myths are things you’ve thought of or questions you’ve asked. These are definitely things I thought about before I began my non-toxic journey and had to figure out along the way.
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After spending the last 10 years of my life moving towards a non-toxic lifestyle, I have a learned so much and yet I still have so much more to learn. I want to debunk some of these myths and share some truths with you to encourage you and show you that a healthier and more natural lifestyle is very do-able and worth the effort.
Myth #1 A Non-Toxic Lifestyle Can Be Expensive
If we’re being honest, any lifestyle can be costly, whether it focuses on non-toxic living or not. But of course, there are expenses associated with this lifestyle. I personally view them as investments in my and my family’s health. You can pay for your health now or later when you could be facing health problems. I know that’s a strong statement, but after going through cancer and chemotherapy, I’m very familiar with the financial burden of illness. To me, reducing exposure to harmful chemicals is worth the expense for better long-term health.
The good news is that there are ways to reduce the costs of non-toxic living such as making your own products or food staples and growing your own food. Doing any of these can reduce costs significantly while also ensuring you know exactly what ingredients are included in the food you’re eating and the products you are using. Another way to live non-toxic on a budget is to shop the sales at health stores, repurpose items you already have or find things while thrifting. Making small changes over time and replacing products as you run out, will help you to save money. Each step is slowly reducing your exposure to toxins.
Myth #2 You Need To Make Everything Yourself
Some people love DIY and others would rather buy everything. In the non-toxic lifestyle, you can make your own food, cleaning products and personal care items, but you don’t HAVE to. I know that the thought of having to make all your products and foods from scratch can feel overwhelming to anyone, especially a busy mom. Don’t worry that this lifestyle requires DIY or nothing at all because that’s not the case. There are plenty of great options available for purchase, including homemade products from small businesses. But if you do ever decide you want to make your own products, you can. You might even find that you enjoy or prefer it.
Myth #3 Non-Toxic Products Aren’t As Effective
This is definitely a misconception, and one I’ve heard many times. Non-toxic products can be equally as effective as conventional ones without the side effects. In fact, many non-toxic products are MORE effective than their conventional counterparts. This is due to advances in green chemistry that have led to the development of highly efficient non-toxic products. These can be personal care or cleaning products.
I have found that many non-toxic products have simple ingredients that I can read and recognize. People can easily get caught up with ads telling us we need the newest product for an old problem, but sometimes the most basic items make the most effective solutions. For example, you can utilize simple ingredients that. you probably already have at home, such as white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, Castile soap, baking soda, etc for cleaning supplies. Using these over conventional cleaning products comes with the added benefits of fewer allergens, reduced environmental impact, and safer long-term use.
Myth #4 All Non-Toxic Products Are The Same
Unfortunately, all non-toxic products are not created equal. The market is filled with misleading marketing tactics that use terms such as ‘natural‘ and ‘clean‘ which do not necessarily guarantee safety. It can be challenging to distinguish between a genuinely non-toxic product and one that falsely claims to be. When a company claims a product is natural or non-toxic and it’s not, it’s called greenwashing. And it happens all the time, making it confusing to figure out what you product you should choose.
One way to combat this is to educate yourself. It’s not easy, but you will want to learn which ingredients to avoid and which are acceptable. Another option is to find recommended products from trusted sources. Over time you will learn what brands are trustworthy and some of the key ingredients to look out for. You’ll be able to decide what your own personal standards are.
Myth #5 A Non-Toxic Lifestyle Is Only For The Extremely Health Conscious
It’s true that a non-toxic lifestyle does appeal to the health conscious, but it’s also embraced by the everyday mom seeking to create a healthier home and simpler life for her family. People who are environmentally aware and ethically driven are also interested in this lifestyle. It often allows them to support more sustainable practices and reduce exposure to chemicals not only for the sake of their families but also the planet. It’s not simply a trend for the health obsessed but an approach to life that resonates with a diverse group of people with a range of values and priorities.
Myth #6 A Non-Toxic Lifestyle Is A Difficult Lifestyle To Sustain
This is another common misconception. While it is true that transitioning to a more non-toxic lifestyle requires effort and commitment, it is not difficult to sustain. It becomes increasingly manageable as you gain knowledge. And that is a component of the lifestyle, a commitment to learning and research. You can’t make changes to something unless you know why you would change it in the first place. For most, when we know better, we do better.
One key is to remember that the transition to a non-toxic lifestyle is a journey, not a race with an end goal. It’s personal for each person and that’s the best part. You make the changes you want and incorporate non-toxic items into your daily routines at the pace you choose. Every small change you make will help to reduce your exposure to toxins. The key is persistence and a willingness to prioritize long-term wellbeing over convenience.
Myth #7 You Must Replace Everything At Once
The thought of replacing everything in your kitchen and bathroom cabinets (not to mention the rest of your home) can feel very overwhelming, because it is! And it’s not a recommended way to begin this lifestyle. I always remind people that the journey to a non-toxic lifestyle happens through one small change at a time. It’s important to approach this transition at a pace that works for you so overwhelm doesn’t set in. A simple way to begin is by identifying the most frequently used items in your home and replacing those as they run out. You could also begin by focusing on the most impactful changes first. This blog article will help you if you prefer to begin the lifestyle this way. Remember, every small step towards a non-toxic lifestyle is a significant stride towards a healthier future.
Myth #8 A Non-Toxic Lifestyle Means You Go Completely Chemical Free
This is a myth. It’s impossible to go completely chemical free and that is the exact reason why you want to reduce exposure to toxins. Because you will ALWAYS be exposed to chemicals in some area of your life. There is no way around it! If you make mindful choices to lessen the toxin exposure in the ways you can control, it will be easier on your body to maintain good health. Focus on areas where you spend the most time, such as your home, workplace, and personal care routine. Opt for natural cleaning products, organic foods, and skincare items free from harmful chemicals.
Keep in mind that this lifestyle is very personal to each individual and is about being flexible and having grace for yourself in regards to what works for you and your family and how non-toxic you want to be! Maybe you choose to eat all organic food but still love to take your family to Chic-Fil-A. Or maybe you’ve switched over to all non-toxic cleaning supplies, but can’t let go of that blue Dawn dish soap. That’s ok! My journey to a non-toxic lifestyle may look different than your journey. Who knows, today you may be ok with something that next year you decide you want to change.
Myth #9 Non-Toxic Living Is Overwhelming
This can be true, but with the right guidance (like this blog), it doesn’t have to be. The key thing to remember is to start small and focus on one area at time. Begin to gradually incorporate more non-toxic alternatives into your daily routine.
Sometimes, those closest to you are not interested in going on the journey to a non-toxic lifestyle. If this is you, consider seeking support from like-minded communities, share your experiences and learn from others. Every step that you take towards non-toxic living contributes to a healthier home for your family and a healthier planet.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully learning some truths about living a non-toxic lifestyle was encouraging. It’s so important to keep in mind that you do not have to be perfect, just intentional.
By being discerning and well-informed, you can navigate the complexities of non-toxic living and make decisions that genuinely contribute to your health and well-being. It is a journey that requires attention and care, but the benefits of reducing exposure to harmful substances are well worth the effort.
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great article. Wholeheartedly agree with 100%. small steps, but amazing changes that will change your life!