Toxins Are Everywhere

Here’s How to Start Going Toxin-FreeGoing Toxin Free

Toxins—yes, they are everywhere! Also known as endocrine disruptors, these tiny, often invisible chemicals can wreak havoc on your metabolism, weight, and overall hormone health. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.

Be sure to scroll to the bottom for our free guides.

Reset

At Strength & Grace Fitness, we are big advocates for detoxing your body, resetting your hormones, and giving yourself a clean, fresh start. Whether you’re stepping into a new fitness or nutrition plan, we believe in doing it with intention—not like you’re taking off from a firing gun.

That’s why we often recommend a 21-day reset—it’s a manageable way to ease into a new lifestyle without feeling overwhelmed. This same principle applies when reducing the toxins in your daily life. You don’t have to change everything overnight, but small, consistent changes can lead to big results.

Not ready to go completely toxin free?

Maybe now isn’t the time to overhaul your workouts or nutrition—and that’s okay! However, there’s one impactful step you can take starting today: cleaning up the toxins in your home.

We’re not just talking about dirt and dust. Instead, let’s look at the everyday products you’re using—on your body, your dishes, your clothes, and your counters. Many contain harmful chemicals that mess with your hormones, even in small amounts.

Easy Swaps to Go Toxin-Free

Below are some simple changes you can make that will have a significant impact on your hormone health and your family’s overall well-being.

---

Toxin-Free Food Prep

Start in the kitchen with these toxin-free tips:

• Avoid heating food in plastic containers. When plastic is heated, it can leach harmful chemicals into your food.
• Switch to glass or stainless steel for your drinking bottles and cups, especially for hot beverages.
• Ditch Styrofoam containers whenever possible. Like plastic, they can release toxins into your food—though the good news is, they’re becoming less common.

---

Toxin-Free Cleaning Products

You don’t need a cabinet full of chemicals to keep your home fresh and clean. Try these safer swaps:

In the Kitchen & Bathroom:

• Dishwasher detergents: Look for options without bleach, synthetic dyes, or artificial fragrances.
• Hand soap: Antibacterial ingredients aren’t necessary. Choose simpler, cleaner formulas.
• Glass cleaner: Mix one part white vinegar with one part water for a non-toxic, effective alternative.
• Toilet cleaner: Skip harsh bleach. Instead, opt for eco-friendly brands like Seventh Generation or Earth Friendly Products.

In the Laundry Room:

• Laundry detergents: Avoid products with bleach, sulfates, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances.
• Borax: While often recommended as a “natural” cleaner, it’s not as safe as it seems. Consider other options.
• Fabric softeners: Instead of dryer sheets, use a Downy ball filled with distilled white vinegar in the wash. Then toss in 100% wool dryer balls during the dry cycle.
• Bleach alternatives: Hydrogen peroxide, lemon juice, baking soda, and vinegar are all effective and safer substitutes.

---

Toxin-Free Body Products

Personal care items often contain the most hidden hormone disruptors. Here’s a list of ingredients to steer clear of:

• Parabens – Estrogen disruptors linked to breast cancer and fertility issues.
• Phthalates – Found in many products to help them adhere to the skin; known endocrine disruptors.
• Sulfates – These foaming agents strip moisture and can irritate the skin and scalp.
• PEG (Propylene Glycol) – A petroleum-based thickener found in many cosmetics.
• DEA – Used to create a creamy texture; linked to hormone disruption.
• Formaldehyde – Used as a preservative in cosmetics—yes, the same chemical used in embalming.
• Triclosan – Banned in some products, but may still be lingering in old hand soaps.
• BHT – A preservative associated with hormone disruption.
• Silicone-based emollients – Non-biodegradable and can clog pores.
• Fragrance – A broad term that can conceal hundreds of synthetic chemicals. Choose products scented only with pure essential oils.
• Synthetic colors – Look out for FD&C or D&C followed by a number; these are artificial colorants to avoid.
• PPD – Commonly found in hair dyes and known to cause irritation.
• Chemical sunscreen ingredients – Avoid oxybenzone, octinoxate, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene. These are harmful to your body and the environment.

---

What About Makeup?

Makeup varies widely in safety and formulation. For peace of mind, we recommend checking your products on the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Database at ewg.org It’s a reliable resource for evaluating ingredient safety and finding cleaner alternatives.

---

Small Changes, Big Impact

Reducing your exposure to toxins doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing process. Begin with one area of your life—whether it’s the kitchen, your cleaning routine, or your personal care products. Over time, these intentional swaps will support more balanced hormones, clearer energy, and a healthier home environment.

Places we love

You can find healthier cleaning products almost anywhere these days, but here are a few of our favorites:

Sprouts, Trader Joes, Mom’s Organics, Target and online at Thrive Market* and Amazon

*Yes, Thrive has a subscription fee, but it is well worth it. And by clicking on our link you will save up to 40% off your first order and receive a $60 free gift.  This site is filled with amazing food, toxin free cleaning agents, skincare, nutritional supplements and MAKEUP!  Trust me – their Ketchup is the BOMB!  Try out their Thrive name brand products for even bigger savings. You can check out our Thrive shopping list here, our favorite non toxic products here, as well as our toxin free options at the Biggest Box store COSTCO!

Download our FREE Strength & Grace Toxin-Free Living Guide and our Low Toxin Kitchen Tools Guide to take your first step toward a cleaner, more empowered lifestyle today.