Dr. Brighten on Using Non-Toxic Cleaning Products For Better Hormones

Dr. Jolene Brighten, a renowned expert in women's health, has been a vocal advocate for using non-toxic cleaning products. Her stance is clear: the standard cleaning products many of us use are laden with endocrine-disrupting chemicals, which she aptly calls "hormone wreckers." These chemicals pose a risk to our immediate environment and have long-term implications for our hormonal health.

Understanding the Risks

Children, pets, and even adults are constantly in contact with surfaces cleaned with these products. From the floors we walk on to the counters we prepare our food on, the exposure is constant. This exposure can lead to a myriad of health issues, including headaches, fatigue, and other symptoms that can be traced back to hormonal imbalances.

Detoxifying Your Home: A Step-by-Step Guide

Take Inventory: Before making any changes, understand what you're currently using. List down all the cleaning products in your home.

Evaluate: Spend some time on www.ewg.org to understand which products are harmful and need immediate replacement.

Find Alternatives: The market is replete with green alternatives. However, be cautious as formulas can change. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a great resource. Alternatively, consider making your own cleaning products using essential oils or simple ingredients like vinegar and baking soda.

Phase Out: Transitioning doesn't have to be immediate. You can gradually replace harmful products with safer alternatives.

In her interview on the Mind Pump Show, Dr. Brighten emphasized the importance of understanding our bodies and taking charge of our health. She mentioned, "Medical gaslighting is a big one... We've absolutely been taught, especially in women's medicine, that you don't question the white coat." This highlights the need for individuals to be proactive and informed about their health choices.

Additional Insights from CHEM Trust

Cleaning products are not the only sources of endocrine disruptors. These harmful chemicals can also be found in household dust. To reduce exposure:

Vacuum and Dust Regularly: Use a damp cloth to prevent the spread of dust.

Ventilate Your Home: Open windows to allow fresh air in and prevent the buildup of chemicals.

Consider Alternatives to Carpets: Carpets can trap harmful chemicals and dust. If possible, opt for other flooring options.

The Hidden Dangers in Cleaning Products

While many of us are aware of the obvious dangers of toxic chemicals in cleaning products, such as skin irritation or respiratory issues, the more insidious threat lies in the long-term effects of these chemicals on our hormonal health. Endocrine disruptors, as they are scientifically termed, can mimic or interfere with the body's hormones. These chemicals can be particularly harmful to women, whose hormonal balance is crucial for various physiological processes, including menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause.

The Environmental Impact

It's not just our personal health at stake. The environmental implications of using toxic cleaning products are vast. When we wash these chemicals down our drains, they enter our waterways, affecting aquatic life and potentially contaminating our drinking water sources. Over time, these chemicals can accumulate in the environment, leading to long-term ecological damage.

Empowerment through Knowledge

One of the most empowering steps we can take is to educate ourselves. Dr. Brighten's emphasis on understanding our bodies and the products we use is a call to action. By reading labels, researching ingredients, and being discerning consumers, we can make choices that are not only better for our health but also for the planet.

Moreover, the rise of green and eco-friendly cleaning products in the market is a testament to the growing awareness and demand for safer alternatives. These products often use natural ingredients, like essential oils, which not only clean effectively but also offer therapeutic benefits. For instance, tea tree oil is known for its antimicrobial properties, while lavender can have a calming effect.

DIY: A Safe and Cost-effective Alternative

For those who are inclined, making your own cleaning products can be both a cost-effective and safe alternative. Simple ingredients like vinegar, lemon, and baking soda can be combined in various ways to tackle different cleaning tasks. Not only does this give you control over what goes into your cleaning products, but it also reduces plastic waste, as you can reuse containers.

The Broader Perspective

While the focus is often on cleaning products, it's essential to adopt a broader perspective. Everything from the cosmetics we use to the food we consume can impact our hormonal health. Adopting a holistic approach to our lifestyle choices can pave the way for better health outcomes.

The journey to a toxin-free home is not just about cleanliness; it's about health. By understanding the risks and making informed choices, we can create safer environments for ourselves and our loved ones. As Dr. Brighten aptly puts it, our hormones will thank us.