Living in today’s modern world exposes us to a growing list of chemicals, pesticides, fumes and products that can poison our brains and our bodies. The common toxins in the air we breathe, the foods we eat, and the products we rub on our skin can eventually impact and harm the brain. Our growing exposure to everyday toxins – including breathing in secondhand smoke -- puts our brains at great risk and increases the chances of causing brain and mental health issues.
One common but very harmful environmental toxin is cigarette smoke, ingested either from smoking or breathing in secondhand smoke. Cigarettes are extremely toxic to humans. According to the American Lung Association, burning cigarettes create about 7,000 chemicals, many of which are poisonous. E-cigarettes, thought to be a better option, contain 10 times the level of carcinogens than a regular cigarette. Formaldehyde and acetaldehyde are also found in the vapor produced by many types of E-cigarettes.
The connection between smoking and its damage to brain health is common knowledge among health professionals. Yet the industry funds research that suggests people with schizophrenia can benefit from self-medicating with cigarettes. People dependent on using cigarettes to manage mood or stress are trading this for illness and disease, as well as the health of those around them. People with mental health or substance abuse issues are more likely to smoke cigarettes than the general population.
Smoking and vaping tobacco, caffeine, marijuana and nicotine causes smokers to inhale a host of fine and ultrafine toxic chemicals that can also penetrate the brain blood barrier, causing inflammatory reactions and damage to the brain. Second-hand smoke is just as toxic and dangerous.
With all of these toxins around us, what can we do? Small changes and daily awareness can bring about great heath benefits.
At Foresight Chiropractic, we are committed to helping our patients live a healthy lifestyle finding asthma relief, back pain relief, migraine relief, and muscle and joint pain. We encourage you to proactively reduce your exposure to everyday toxins by reading labels and being aware of the chemicals that are in the products you are using. Check out www.ewg.org for an informative tool to learn more about the products you use and healthier options that are available.
Other strategies to use to reduce your exposure to toxins include:
- Do a chemical clean out in your home each week, eliminating a toxic cleaner and substitute a natural household cleaner such as vinegar and borax soap or essential oils. Traditional grocery stores are now carrying more non-toxic cleaner brands.
- Switch out scented products like air fresheners and fabric softeners that can cause respiratory issues and try essential oils and woolen laundry balls that soften and reduce static cline.
- Opt for natural cleaning and gardening products. Skin products and hair products with fewer harmful chemicals are also available.
- To lessen exposure to BPA and microplastic particles that can leach into our water and food, use glass and stainless steel water bottles. Use glass containers in the microwave rather than plastic or Styrofoam.
Also, ask us about the BEMER Medical Device from Europe that is now available for use in the office or for home. In addition to helping you sleep better and increasing blood circulation, energy, endurance, recovery and reducing aches and pains, BEMER also helps to eliminate toxins from the body. It’s quick and easy to use for the entire family, including your pets.
Environmental Toxins and Health
Every proactive step you take to reduce your exposure leads to a happier, healthier life for you and your family. Give your children the gift of health and schedule a spinal checkup and wellness evaluation for the entire family. Find out how Foresight Chiropractic, the Valley’s premier Wellness Center, can benefit you in your quest for good health. Call 480-325-6977 to schedule a free consultation with one of our Board Certified Atlas Orthogonal Doctors who have been helping families restore and optimize their health for over 20 years.
