5 Hacks To Reduce Exposure to Toxins

13 Mar

Written by Christie Amadio

Since 2020, the pace of modern life has intensified, making well-being feel increasingly out of reach. Mental health challenges are rising, financial pressures are relentless, and our daily environments—our food, water, air, and even light exposure—are filled with hidden stressors.
To make matters worse, the media, particularly social media, constantly bombards us with the idea that we are fundamentally flawed. We are pushed towards endless consumer solutions, fuelling anxiety and making it difficult to discern what truly matters for our health.
Clients often ask me for simple, high-impact strategies to reduce toxic exposure without adding unnecessary stress. Below are five fundamental changes that deliver the greatest benefits. But first, let’s touch on microplastics, as it has become a recurring concern in clinic discussions.

1. Microplastics – The Hidden Pollutant

Why It Matters

The average person unknowingly ingests 39,000–74,000 microplastic particles each year—the equivalent weight of a pen cap or a small plastic bottle. That’s about a teaspoon to a credit card’s worth of plastic per week.
Microplastics accumulate in the brain, carotid artery, reproductive system, and digestive tract, triggering inflammation and immune responses. A 2024 study from the University of New Mexico found microplastics in 100% of placental tissue samples examined, mainly from polyethylene, the plastic used in bags and bottles.

How to Reduce Exposure

✔Avoid heating or storing food in plastic containers, especially acidic or hot foods.
✔Ditch takeaway coffee cups. Most have a plastic lining that releases 25,000 microplastic particles within 15 minutes, along with toxic metals like cadmium.
✔Filter your water. Tap water is a significant source of microplastic contamination.

2. The Most Harmful Environmental Toxins & Safer Alternatives

Bisphenols (BPA, BPS, BPF)

Found in: Plastic containers, canned food linings, receipts.
Why Avoid? Endocrine disruptors linked to hormonal imbalances and fertility issues.
Safer Choice: Use glass, stainless steel, or ceramic; refuse thermal paper receipts.

Phthalates

Found in: Plastic packaging, cosmetics, synthetic fragrances, vinyl flooring.
Why Avoid? Interferes with hormone function and reproductive health.
Safer Choice: Opt for phthalate-free personal care products and store food in glass or ceramic.

Parabens

Found in: Skincare, shampoos, makeup, lotions.
Why Avoid? Mimics oestrogen, linked to breast cancer risks.
Safer Choice: Look for "paraben-free" products with natural preservatives like vitamin E or grapefruit seed extract.

PFAS ("Forever Chemicals")

Found in: Non-stick cookware, fast-food packaging, waterproof clothing.
Why Avoid? Linked to cancer, immune dysfunction, and hormonal imbalances.
Safer Choice: Choose cast iron or stainless steel cookware, organic clothing, and uncoated baking paper.

Heavy Metals (Lead, Mercury, Arsenic, Cadmium)

Found in: Tap water, seafood, old paint, cosmetics, pesticides.
Why Avoid? Neurotoxic, accumulates in the body, affecting brain function and kidney health.
Safer Choice: Install a high-quality water filter, choose low-mercury fish (like salmon over tuna), and buy organic produce.

Pesticides (Glyphosate, Organophosphates)

Found in: Non-organic fruits, vegetables, grains.
Why Avoid? Linked to cancer, neurotoxicity, and gut microbiome disruption.
Safer Choice: Prioritise organic produce, wash food with vinegar water, and consider growing your own.

3. Water & Air Quality – The Silent Threats

Water Contaminants (Chlorine & Fluoride)

Why Avoid? May disrupt gut bacteria and thyroid function.
Safer Choice: Install a reverse osmosis or activated carbon filter, choose fluoride-free toothpaste.

Airborne Toxins (Synthetic Fragrances & VOCs)

Found in: Perfumes, air fresheners, candles, cleaning products.
Why Avoid? Many contain undisclosed chemicals, including phthalates.
Safer Choice: Use essential oils, beeswax candles, and vinegar-based cleaners.

Mould & Mycotoxins

Found in: Damp homes, HVAC systems, old carpets.
Why Avoid? Can cause respiratory issues, brain fog, and immune dysfunction.
Safer Choice: Use a dehumidifier, fix leaks, and clean with clove oil, vinegar, or hydrogen peroxide instead of bleach.

4. Everyday Products – Hidden Dangers

Triclosan & Antibacterial Agents

Found in: Hand sanitisers, soaps, toothpaste.
Why Avoid? Disrupts hormones and may contribute to antibiotic resistance.
Safer Choice: Use plain soap and water, and natural sanitisers with aloe and alcohol.

Electromagnetic Fields (EMFs)

Found in: Wi-Fi, mobile phones, Bluetooth devices.
Why Avoid? May contribute to sleep disturbances and oxidative stress.
Safer Choice: Turn off Wi-Fi at night, use wired headphones, and keep electronics out of the bedroom.

Artificial Food Additives (MSG, Aspartame, Food Dyes)

Found in: Processed foods, diet soft drinks, flavoured snacks.
Why Avoid? Linked to neurological effects, hyperactivity, and metabolic disorders.
Safer Choice: Stick to whole foods and use natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or stevia.

5. Simple Daily Actions for a Low-Toxin Lifestyle

✔ Drink filtered water
✔ Prioritise organic produce when possible
✔ Use natural personal care & cleaning products
✔ Minimise plastic use
✔ Avoid synthetic fragrances & non-stick cookware
✔ Reduce exposure to EMFs

Final Thoughts

Reducing environmental toxins doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By focusing on small, intentional changes, you can significantly decrease your toxic load and improve your long-term health. Start with one or two manageable swaps, and build from there—progress, not perfection, is key.

Jen and I are always happy to chat when you're next at Mitocore.

Nicolas Faust