Non-Toxic Dad News: June 14, 2024

Let's get straight to the point: companies often sacrifice your health for profit. From food to paint to everyday products, the entities that should be protecting our well-being, like the FDA, CDC, and EPA, seem more invested in their own interests. After all, their profits often come from treating the sick rather than preventing illness.

Look at the standards set by the FDA, CDC, and EPA compared to those in the European Union. While the EU isn't perfect, their toxicity standards far exceed those in America. We allow much more harmful substances to be consumed by the American people than European countries would ever permit.

In America, the emphasis on convenience and speed means that healthy and non-toxic alternatives are often more expensive, take longer to access, and are more inconvenient for the average fast-paced lifestyle. But, there are options. It shouldn't be this way, but it is. We can change this.

This reality contributes to weakened immune systems, poor metabolism, overall declining health, and various disease epidemics such as obesity and neurodegenerative diseases.

American companies need to improve, but they won’t until we start voicing our displeasure in the only language they understand our dollars. By making informed choices and demanding better, we can drive change.

Learn more below, but first…

In recent years, there has been increasing concern over Is Glyphosate Safe?, a widely used herbicide, in our environment. Initially celebrated as a breakthrough in agricultural efficiency, glyphosate’s ubiquitous application has resulted in alarming chemical levels permeating our water, air, and soil.

Ever poured yourself a nice glass of California wine at the end of a long day? Well, hold onto your glasses folks, because it turns out that some of our favorite reds and whites might come with a little more than just grapes. Yep, I’m talking about glyphosate – that herbicide that’s been buzzing in the news for a while now. It’s mostly used to keep the weeds away, but it seems like it’s making its way into wine barrels too.

In our modern world, we are surrounded by electromagnetic fields (EMFs) generated by various electronic devices, including Wi-Fi routers, cell phones, and household appliances. While the effects of EMFs on human health are a growing concern, we often overlook the impact these fields can have on our beloved pets. From dogs and cats to birds and small mammals, our furry friends are not immune to the potential dangers of EMF exposure. This blog will explore how EMFs can harm our pets and discuss practical ways to keep them safe and healthy.

Given that many everyday products can contain harmful chemicals, this week's tip focuses on making safer choices for your home. You can significantly improve your family's health by gradually replacing toxic items with non-toxic alternatives.

Personal Plan of Action:

1. Identify Harmful Products:

   • Start by taking inventory of your current household items, focusing on cleaning supplies, personal care products, and kitchenware. Look for labels that list harmful chemicals such as phthalates, formaldehyde, and parabens.

2. Research Non-Toxic Alternatives:

   • Use reliable resources to find non-toxic alternatives for the products you identified. Websites like EWG’s Skin Deep and the Environmental Working Group’s Guide to Healthy Cleaning can provide valuable information on safer options.

3. Replace Gradually:

   • Start replacing your most frequently used items first. For instance, swap out your regular cleaning spray for a non-toxic, biodegradable option. Gradually, as your budget allows, replace more items such as personal care products and cookware.

4. Read Labels Carefully:

   • Become a label detective. Look for certifications such as "USDA Organic," "Made Safe," or "ECOCERT" which indicate higher safety standards. Avoid products with long lists of unpronounceable chemicals.

5. Support Non-Toxic Brands:

   • Purchase from brands committed to non-toxic production. Some well-known brands include Seventh Generation, Dr. Bronner’s, and The Honest Company. By supporting these brands, you contribute to a demand for safer products.

6. Stay Informed and Advocate:

   • Educate yourself and your family about the importance of non-toxic living. Share what you’ve learned with friends and community members. Advocacy can start at home but spread to wider circles, prompting more people to make healthier choices.

7. Vote with Your Wallet:

   • As discussed in the introduction, companies respond to consumer demand. By consistently choosing non-toxic products, you message manufacturers that health and safety are priorities.

Example Action for This Week: Replace your bathroom cleaner with a non-toxic alternative. Research a few products online, read reviews, and choose one that suits your needs. Dispose of the old cleaner responsibly, following local guidelines for hazardous waste disposal.

By taking these small but meaningful steps, you contribute to a healthier home environment and encourage broader market change. Let's commit to making informed choices and prioritizing our family's well-being.

As we enter flea and tick season, protecting our families from these pesky insects is crucial without resorting to harsh chemicals. Many commercial insect repellents contain DEET and other toxic substances that can pose health risks, especially for children. This week, we're sharing a simple, effective, and non-toxic recipe for homemade insect repellent.

DIY Non-Toxic Insect Repellent

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup witch hazel

• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

• 40 drops essential oils (a mix of eucalyptus, citronella, lavender, and tea tree oil works well)

• 1 tablespoon neem oil (optional, for added insect-repelling properties)

• Spray bottle (preferably glass)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the witch hazel and apple cider vinegar. These act as the base for your insect repellent and help to dilute the essential oils.

2. Add Essential Oils:

   • Add 40 drops of essential oils to the mixture. You can use a combination of eucalyptus, citronella, lavender, and tea tree oil. These oils are known for their insect-repelling properties and provide a pleasant scent.

3. Add Neem Oil (Optional):

   • If you have neem oil, add 1 tablespoon to the mixture. Neem oil is a powerful natural insect repellent and can enhance the effectiveness of your homemade spray.

4. Mix and Pour:

   • Stir the mixture well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle. Glass bottles are preferred to preserve the integrity of the essential oils.

5. Label and Store:

   • Label your spray bottle with the contents and date. Store in a cool, dark place.

How to Use:

• Shake well before each use.

• Spray on exposed skin and clothing before heading outdoors.

• Reapply as needed, especially if you're active or sweating.

Tips:

• Conduct a patch test on a small area of skin to ensure you don't have an allergic reaction to the essential oils.

• Avoid spraying directly on the face. Instead, spray on hands and then apply to the face, avoiding the eyes and mouth.

• Always consult your veterinarian before applying any new substance to your pets, as some essential oils may be toxic to animals.

By making your own non-toxic insect repellent, you can enjoy the outdoors without the worry of harmful chemicals. Stay protected and healthy during this flea and tick season with this easy and natural solution.

Thank you for joining us in this Non-Toxic Dad’s Weekly Newsletter edition. As we discussed, making informed choices about the products we bring into our homes is essential for safeguarding our health. From understanding the hidden dangers in everyday items like shower curtains to exploring non-toxic alternatives, every small step can lead to a healthier lifestyle for our families.

This week's DIY recipe for a homemade insect repellent is just one example of how simple it can be to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals. By prioritizing non-toxic options and supporting safer products, we can collectively push for higher standards and hold companies accountable.

Remember, our health is too important to be compromised for convenience or profit. Let’s continue to make conscious choices, stay informed, and protect our loved ones. Until next week, stay safe and stay healthy!

Warm regards, Non-Toxic Dad