The underlying philosophy guiding Lily’s Smoothie is rooted in a “Clean Eating Approach” – a commitment to minimizing exposure to unnecessary and potentially harmful substances in our diets. This extends beyond just food, encompassing a holistic approach to clean living.

We observe that many processed foods contain a plethora of additives, often touted as “enhancers” of flavor, texture, or shelf-life. While seemingly innocuous, these additives may have insidious long-term effects on our health.

As part of our 30-day wellness program, we dedicate a session to deciphering food labels, empowering participants to become discerning consumers. This involves identifying and avoiding hidden, non-nutritive ingredients, such as artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, and preservatives.

This focus on clean eating naturally sparked my own curiosity. I began scrutinizing the ingredient lists of virtually everything I used: shower gels, shampoos, skincare products, even cleaning supplies. A disturbing pattern emerged. Most products contained a surfeit of artificially created ingredients, often with unfamiliar names and potential for long-term adverse effects.

This led me to ponder a profound question: How have we become so accustomed to accepting even mild doses of potentially harmful substances in our daily lives? How comfortable have regulatory bodies become with this reality? And most importantly, how can I truly embrace this “clean living” approach in my own life? What adjustments would I need to make to my daily routines, and how feasible would such a transition be?

This introspection leads me to ask you: How clean is your pantry? How clean are the products you use for cooking, cleaning, and personal care? How clean are the medications, supplements, and other health-enhancing products you consume?

As we venture into this world of toxins, it’s crucial to recognize that the field of research on chemicals in everyday products is vast and constantly evolving.

Endocrine Disruptors: A Silent Threat

One key area of concern revolves around endocrine disruptors – chemicals that interfere with our body’s intricate hormonal system. A delicate system which orchestrates vital functions like growth, development, reproduction, and metabolism. By mimicking, blocking, or altering how our hormones work, endocrine disruptors can significantly disrupt normal bodily functions, potentially leading to a cascade of health issues.

Evidence suggests these chemicals can influence early breast development, increase the risk of certain cancers (breast, prostate), impact neuroendocrinology, affect thyroid health, and contribute to metabolic issues like obesity. Given their potential impact on critical bodily systems, there is growing concern about the health threats posed by exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in our environment, food, and consumer products.

We encounter these substances through various routes: ingestion (what we eat), inhalation (what we breathe), and skin contact (what touches our skin).

Phthalates: Hidden in Everyday Products

Phthalates, a class of chemicals commonly used to soften plastics, are ubiquitous in our daily lives. They are found in a wide range of products, including plastics (toys, food packaging, medical devices, shower curtains), personal care products (hairspray, nail polish), paints, insecticides, and detergents.

As endocrine disruptors, phthalates have been linked to several health concerns. Studies have associated phthalate exposure with decreased sperm count and quality in men, early puberty in girls, and increased risk of infertility. These chemicals can also interfere with fetal development, potentially leading to birth defects and developmental delays. Some research even suggests a link between phthalate exposure and an increased incidence of asthma, allergies, obesity, and type 2 diabetes.

Bisphenol A (BPA): A Persistent Concern

Bisphenol A (BPA), an industrial chemical used to make certain types of plastics and resins, has raised significant health concerns. It mimics the action of the hormone estrogen, disrupting the normal function of various organs and systems.

BPA is found in a wide array of everyday products, including plastic food and beverage containers (water bottles, food storage containers, and baby bottles), canned foods (used to line the inside of food cans), dental sealants and fillings, and thermal paper receipts.

Due to its estrogenic activity, BPA has been linked to potential impacts on fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and the development of reproductive organs. Concerns have also been raised about its potential effects on brain development in fetuses and young children. Some studies suggest possible links to obesity and related health issues, as well as potential contributions to certain types of cancer. While research is ongoing, the potential health risks associated with BPA exposure warrant careful consideration.

Parabens: Preservatives with Potential Pitfalls

Parabens are a group of chemicals commonly used as preservatives in cosmetics, personal care products, and some pharmaceuticals. They prevent the growth of mold, bacteria, and yeast, extending the shelf life of these products. However, like phthalates and BPA, parabens are also suspected endocrine disruptors.

By mimicking estrogen, parabens can interfere with the body’s hormonal balance. This has been linked to various effects on growth, development, and reproduction. You can find parabens in a wide range of products, including lotions, creams, moisturizers, shampoos and conditioners, deodorants, makeup, shaving creams, toothpaste, sunscreen, and even some pharmaceutical formulations.

Parabens: Preservatives with Potential Pitfalls

Parabens are a group of chemicals commonly used as preservatives in cosmetics, personal care products, and some pharmaceuticals. They prevent the growth of mold, bacteria, and yeast, extending the shelf life of these products. However, like phthalates and BPA, parabens are also suspected endocrine disruptors.

By mimicking estrogen, parabens can interfere with the body’s hormonal balance. This has been linked to various effects on growth, development, and reproduction. You can find parabens in a wide range of products, including lotions, creams, moisturizers, shampoos and conditioners, deodorants, makeup, shaving creams, toothpaste, sunscreen, and even some pharmaceutical formulations.

Perfluorinated Compounds (PFCs): Persistent and Bioaccumulative

Perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) are a large group of synthetic chemicals characterized by strong carbon-fluorine bonds. This unique chemical structure makes them extremely stable and resistant to heat, oil, and water.

PFCs are widely used in various applications, including non-stick cookware (Teflon coatings), water-repellent clothing and fabrics (rainwear, outdoor gear, stain-resistant carpets), food packaging (fast food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags), cleaning products (stain removers and cleaners), and fire-fighting foams.

Due to their persistence and bioaccumulation in the environment and human bodies, PFCs have raised significant health concerns. Studies have linked PFC exposure to reproductive issues, developmental problems in children, immune system impairment, cancer, and liver and kidney problems.

Flame Retardants: A Hidden Threat

Flame retardants are chemicals added to materials like plastics, textiles, and foams to make them less flammable. They function by interfering with the chemical reactions that cause fire to spread.

These chemicals are commonly found in furniture (cushions, mattresses, upholstery), electronics (computers, televisions, phones), building materials (insulation, carpets, curtains), and even some children’s products (certain car seats and toys).

However, many flame retardants have been linked to potential health concerns, including endocrine disruption, neurodevelopmental effects, cancer, and reproductive effects.

Heavy Metals: A Persistent Challenge

Heavy metals are a group of dense metallic elements with high atomic weights. While some, like iron, zinc, and copper, are essential for human health in trace amounts, most heavy metals are toxic even at low concentrations.

Exposure to heavy metals can interfere with normal cellular processes, such as enzyme activity, protein synthesis, and DNA replication. They can also generate reactive oxygen species (free radicals) that damage cells and tissues.

Heavy metals are found in various sources, including electronics (lead in solder, cadmium in batteries, and mercury in some older electronics), paint and coatings (older paints), cosmetics (lead in some lipsticks and traditional cosmetics), and toys (lead in older toys and children’s jewelry).

Lead, for example, can cause neurological damage, leading to developmental delays, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems. Cadmium and mercury can cause kidney damage and are known carcinogens. Depending on the specific metal and exposure level, other health problems may include liver damage, respiratory issues, and skin irritation.

Drawing from these grim facts, how then can we delve deeper into clean eating and create a healthier, more mindful lifestyle?

Prioritize Non-Toxic Choices:

• Food:
  • Organic: Opt for organic produce to minimize pesticide exposure.
  • Local and Seasonal: Support local farmers and choose foods in season for reduced transportation and storage chemicals.
  • Limit Processed Foods: Reduce consumption of processed foods, which often contain additives and preservatives.
• Home Products:
  • Cleaning: Switch to natural cleaning products like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils.
  • Personal Care: Choose natural and organic personal care products free of parabens, phthalates, and other harmful chemicals.
  • Cosmetics: Opt for mineral-based makeup and natural skincare products.

Create a Chemical-Free Home Environment:

• Ventilation: Improve indoor air quality by opening windows and using air purifiers.
• Dust Regularly: Dust and vacuum frequently to remove dust containing chemicals.
• Declutter: Minimize clutter to reduce the accumulation of dust and potential exposure to chemicals.
• Choose Natural Materials: Opt for natural fibers like cotton, linen, and wool instead of synthetic fabrics treated with chemicals.

Be Mindful of Everyday Habits:

• Handwashing: Wash hands thoroughly and frequently, especially after handling potentially contaminated products.
• Food Safety: Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption.
• Hydration: Drink filtered and or boiled water to reduce exposure to contaminants in tap water.
• Limit Plastic Use: Reduce reliance on single-use plastics and choose reusable alternatives.

Educate Yourself and Advocate for Change:

• Research: Learn more about the health impacts of various chemicals and their presence in everyday products.
• Support Regulations: Advocate for stricter regulations on the use of harmful chemicals in consumer products. Maybe contact your elected officials and support organizations working to protect public health.

Support Sustainable Practices: Choose products made with sustainable and eco-friendly practices. 

Embrace a Holistic Approach to health:

• Mindful Living: Practice mindfulness techniques like meditation and yoga to reduce stress and promote overall well-being. Stress can exacerbate the negative effects of toxins on the body.
• Healthy Diet: Nourish your body with whole, unprocessed foods to support detoxification and overall health. Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources.
• Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to improve circulation and support the body’s natural detoxification processes. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.   
• Quality Sleep: Prioritize sufficient sleep to allow the body to repair and rejuvenate. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night.

Connecting the Dots: Clean Living and Cancer Prevention

As we delve deeper into this exploration of clean living, it’s fitting to acknowledge February as National Cancer Prevention Month. This annual observance serves as a powerful reminder of the crucial link between our lifestyle choices and our risk of developing cancer.

The information presented in this article highlights the potential role of environmental factors, particularly exposure to toxins, in cancer development. While cancer is a complex disease with multiple contributing factors, minimizing exposure to harmful chemicals through a clean living approach can be a significant step towards reducing overall cancer risk.

By embracing a mindful approach to our daily lives, prioritizing whole foods, minimizing exposure to harmful chemicals in our environment and personal care products, and engaging in regular physical activity, we can empower ourselves to make informed choices that support our overall health and well-being.

Small Changes, Big Impact

Remember, every small step you take towards clean living contributes to a healthier you and a healthier planet. Start by making gradual changes to your daily routines, such as swapping out conventional cleaning products for natural alternatives, choosing organic produce whenever possible, and reading labels carefully.

Join us on this journey towards a cleaner, healthier lifestyle. Together, we can create a world where wellness and mindful living are the norm, not the exception.

Written by:
Ababach Tamiru,
Clinical Nutritionist- Dietitian.