A factor that we commonly underestimate is our environment. Chemicals in our personal care products, on the food we eat, and in our home materials are invisible and yet they negatively impact us on a daily basis. Many of these toxins work as endocrine disruptors, messing with the body’s hormone production and balance. The amount of chemicals in a single product may seem minimal but collectively they can significantly affect fertility. By minimizing the exposure to these toxins in our environment, we will produce higher quality eggs and pave the way for a healthier pregnancy, too.
Recommendation #1:
Phase out using any air fresheners or scented candles in your home, office, or car. Most of these products contain “fragrance” or “parfum” which contain endocrine-disruptors called phthalates which have been linked to thyroid changes, endometriosis, breast cancer, and preterm birth. Swoon over a good scent? Switch instead to essential oil diffusers. For a home-y autumn atmosphere, place a small pot of water, slices of apple, cinnamon and cloves on your stove and bring to a simmer.
Recommendation #2:
For a while we’ve heard about the impact of BPA in plastic products impacting our health. Now most plastic is labeled “BPA free” but companies are probably using a similar chemical to achieve the same effect (BSA) — we just don’t have research on it yet. It’s hard to completely avoid using plastic so wherever you can minimize your use of it is beneficial. Consider switching over to glass or stainless steel tupperware to store your food. Can’t afford to make the switch all at once? Simply avoid microwaving food in plastic as heating it releases the chemicals into the food.
Recommendation #3:
Buying organic can rack up the grocery bill. Make your dollars count by strategically buying the foods listed on the Environmental Working Group’s Dirty Dozen Guide — the top 12 foods with the highest levels of pesticides. If you can’t afford to buy all organic, all the time, lower your toxin exposure by sticking to organic for only the fruits and vegetables on that list.
Create a Plan to Minimize Your Toxin Exposure
These recommendations are just the beginning, If you’re not sure where to start in making changes, purchase my workbook: Environmental Health for Fertility. It provides a structure that enables you to make small, sustainable changes in order to produce lasting results — empowering you to enhance your fertility.
Improving our environment is only one of the four fertility factors discussed in Preparing for Pregnancy: Your Fertility Empowerment Workbook. This resource covers environmental health, nutrition and diet, fundamental rhythms such as sleep, spirituality, and exercise, and mindset. It is designed to simplify health recommendations and guide you into deeper reflection about your health and body — all to help you get pregnant!
All information, content, and material of this website is for informational purposes only and are not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider.