Our bodies are surrounded by numerous chemicals, from fragrances in soaps, shampoos, and perfumes to makeup and cleaning products. Unknowingly, we are overdosing on these chemicals, which can cause irregular hormone levels in men and women, affecting fertility. If you are trying to conceive, limiting the amount of chemicals in your home (including your garden) and your body is always a good idea. Read on for chemical-free living tips for fertility.
Chemical-free living tips for fertility:
Tip Number 1: Pare Back on Plastics:
The use of plastics is a growing concern, not just for the environment but also for male and female fertility, as they can mimic oestrogens. The good news is that there are many simple changes you can make in your home to reduce your exposure to plastics and, in turn, enhance your fertility health.
Keep all plastic containers out of the heat and sun. The sun can cause the chemicals present in the plastic to be released into your food and fluids.
Always try to buy foods not prepacked in plastic and use paper bags to pack loose fruit and vegetables.
Don’t reuse clear plastic water and soft drink bottles.
Limit the use of cling film. Use wax paper or parchment paper to cover your food.
Opt to store your food in glass, ceramic, or stainless-steel containers. This small change can significantly reduce exposure to harmful chemicals, potentially improving fertility health.
Don’t cook or put hot food into polystyrene (including disposable foam plates, cups and packing materials).
Don’t heat foods in plastic containers.
Avoid as much as possible:
Plastic Tupperware
Microwavable plates
Plastic cups or bottles
Plastic kettles
Colanders
Hard reusable plastics
Tip Number 2: Clean Cosmetics:
Products you use for personal care can often include hidden nasties. So, it stands to reason that when compiling my list of chemical-free living tips for fertility, I had to include a section on clean cosmetics. When moving to more natural body care, consider the ‘biggies’ first, like body moisturiser, deodorant, and shower gel. Changing these will have the most significant effect. You can worry about your eyebrow pencil once you have the more important items in hand!
The top three things to focus on in your cosmetic regime are:
Full-body moisturiser. There are lots of lovely brands out there. Weleda, Neal’s Yard, Sukin, and Green People are my favourites. You can also choose completely natural coconut or almond oil.
Deodorant. Thankfully, natural deodorants are having a moment! More and more people are searching for products that don’t include nasty ingredients like aluminium, parabens, phthalates, and triclosan. I like the Natural Deodorant Company.
Shower Gel. Many conventional shower gels contain harmful chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances. However, natural shower gels avoid using synthetic chemicals, artificial colours, and fragrances, making them safer for long-term use. I recommend Tropic or Dr Bronner's Castile soap.
Bonus Tip: There is a great app called Yuka. This app shows you the brands with the most and least nasties. You can also scan your existing products and see how clean they are!
Tip Number 3: Home Detox:
Eliminating chemical-laden home cleaning and laundry products is crucial when addressing fertility issues or trying to conceive. These products often contain toxins that can disrupt hormonal balance and negatively impact reproductive health. Opting for natural, non-toxic alternatives reduces exposure to harmful chemicals, creating a healthier living environment. By making this simple switch, you can support your body’s natural processes and enhance your chances of a successful pregnancy.
Here are a few of my favourite products to use around the house.
Laundry. I use Bio D for laundry. Also, Eco eggs are great for washing clothes.
Cleaning products. I use Kinn for the home, but thankfully, there are many chemical-free brands you can choose from.
Home Fragrance. Avoid sprays and plug-in air fresheners. For a more natural alternative, buy a diffuser and add your essential oils; my favourites include Lavender, Lemon and Orange. I also use Neal’s Yard Essential Oils. However, some essential oils (such as clary sage) are contraindicated in early pregnancy.
In the kitchen. You can avoid chemical exposure from Teflon by choosing a pan provider that uses an alternative non-stick coating. Take a look at Green Pans. Be aware that some mainstream in-home water filters use chemicals in filtration. For more natural alternatives for countertop water filters, look at Berkey or Doulton.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this article packed with chemical-free living tips for fertility. I'd love to work with you to increase your chances of getting pregnant.
I offer a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation. To book your session or ask any questions, don't hesitate to contact me HERE.
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