“Researchers at two major laboratories found an average of ninety-one industrial compounds, pollutants, and other chemicals in the blood and urine of nine volunteers.”  Environmental Working Group Report entitled “Body Burden: The Pollution In People”

How aware are you of the chemicals you use every day?

In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper.  (Prov. 23:32; NIV)

Can this really be happening?  My face was hot, and flushed to a bright red, my throat burning and sore.  I was feeling dizzy.  I was NOT feeling well.  What in the world was going on?  Was I getting the flu? 

Many years ago, occasions like this began occurring more and more often.  The above symptoms occurred when I was cleaning the bathtub with a “common” tub and tile cleaner.  As my immune system was breaking down, I became “allergic” or sensitive to more and more common, everyday household products.  Dish soaps, laundry detergents, fabric softeners, personal care products, kitchen, and bathroom cleaners all became my enemy!   For a time, the only thing I could use for bathing or for any home cleaning purpose was baking soda.

Gradually we began learning about healthier options that I could tolerate.  That was over twenty years ago.  Even though my body is now healed and restored, I would never return to using commercial or regular cleaning products in the home.  I was reminded of this yesterday when chatting with our dear friend and mentor, Dr. Randy Peck.  I was telling him about the old fashioned cleanser called Bon Ami.  It’s in a gold can and has been available for years as an alternative to the cleansers that contain chlorine.  I use Bon Ami to clean the shower stall, bathtub, sinks, counter tops, pots and pans, and even stubborn stains in the toilet.

Modern day homes have become a quagmire of chemical soup with products for everything from glue remover to  “fake” air fresheners.  All in the name of chemistry!  For your own health and the health of your family, I encourage you to become a minimalist when it comes to using cleaners and other home products.  More is definitely NOT better.

I use a basic, all-purpose organic liquid cleaner that I add to water for cleaning windows, mirrors, counters, and floors.  I dust furniture using cotton cloths (diapers–yes, they’re still available).  I’ll often dampen the cloth slightly to help pick up the dust.  White vinegar is another healthy alternative to use for cleaning purposes.  (And by the way, don’t cook with white vinegar…just use it for cleaning.)

There is a great deal of research now that substantiates how harmful common household chemicals are to our bodies.  I just read an article discussing how many common toxins contribute to weight gain! (See link.)  Very interesting.  There are many good, healthy household products available to use instead of the common toxic ones.  I’ve provided some links for alternatives.  Begin to become aware of what’s “under your sink!”

Prayer Power
Lord, thank You for our physical bodies.  May we seek You in how we care for them.

Links of the Day
Debra’s List
Toxic Chemicals Contribute to Weight Gain

Blessings on you as you make note of the chemicals in your home.