Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Green Body
Nowadays, people everywhere are "going green", but what does that mean and how can it make a difference? By definition, going green simply means being aware of the immediate and residual impact our products and practices have on the planet. If we are causing harm at either of these two levels, whatever we are doing is not a green practice. We all want to make the planet a better place and the best place to start is by thinking “sustainable”. Are the products and services that you’re using being depleted or can they be sustained naturally? What’s consumed should not have a negative impact on the body or the world in general. When that isn't possible, make choices that have the least negative impact; for example, buy local and organic food and chemical-free cleaning and body products whenever possible.
Our skin is our largest organ, so remember what goes on the skin, goes inside the body! With this in mind, be watchful of the ingredients list and what those ingredients are!
* A cosmetic manufacturer may use almost any raw material as a cosmetic ingredient and market the product without an approval by the FDA.
* Evidence shows that cumulative use of these products may be contributing to asthma, the onset of puberty in girls and the feminization of baby boys.
* The majority of personal care products will be washed down the drain.
* Waste-water treatment centers are unable to remove many of the chemicals shampoos, lotions, soaps, deodorant and make-up, leaving the residue in our water supply.
What You Can Do: GIVE YOUR BODY A BREAK
* Cut back on the sheer number of products you use
*Pick one weekend a month to “go au naturel”
*Prioritize your regimen and buy green (clean) products that stay on your skin like deodorant, lotions and cosmetics
* Buy products with the fewest ingredients
* Beware the misuse of words like “organic”,“natural” and “hypo-allergenic”
* Avoid antibacterials (triclosan), parabens, phthalates, and fragrances
* Send companies a message
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Choose products with less packaging; some cosmetics are simply sealed rather than packaged.
From the food we eat to the products we use on our bodies, becoming mindful of our choices to live a sustainable lifestyle is within your grasp. Today, take a minute to read the ingredients label, recycle and consume less—your body and planet will thank you for it.
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