Sometimes, it’s hard to admit when the relationship has gotten “toxic” - but this is one of those times!
In a world of mass-production, we are all aware on some level that we are being exposed to an abundance of toxic materials in many of the convenience items we use daily. This reality can be overwhelming – so much so that you wonder: “Is there really any point to even trying?” It feels like you just keep hearing about more and more products with unhealthy ingredients – ones that you used all the time without knowing – and it just never ends!
Don’t worry! We hear you! This is not a battle to fight alone. There’s a rising movement of small businesses that
are springing up like Rooted for Good, trying to combat this culture of toxicity and convenience.
Even if you can’t cut everything out (nobody can!) Here are three reasons why it’s time to make intentional choices for your health and your family to start “breaking up” with those toxic chemicals. In the world we live in, it’s actually never been easier to switch to healthier alternatives.
1) SHORT TERM CONVENIENCE VS LONG TERM PROBLEMS
This is probably the best argument I can think of for trying to slowly make cuts in your lifestyle - removing the products you buy and the habits you engage in that are less than healthy and moving towards more wholesome
alternatives.
In corporate America especially, this isn’t easy. It’s so much simpler to just swing by a fast food restaurant, for instance, and “take the hit” - sacrificing quality for convenience. In one off instances, this wouldn’t be a problem.
However, for the vast majority of people, these instances are habits and not occasional cheat days.
The reality is that the long term health problems that come from prioritizing convenience over healthy alternatives ultimately leads to - you guessed it - expensive health bills down the road!
(I’ll let you in on a secret, by the way . . . fast food is not actually as cheap as you think. Do the math. While you do have to meal plan, consider the cost of ingredients in your favorite meal that feeds your whole family compared to the cost of buying fast food for all of them. It adds up fast! I’m sure fast food restaurants would rather you stay in the dark there. 🙂 )
2) IT’S EASIER / CHEAPER THAN YOU THINK!
Even 20 years ago, this wouldn’t have been the case. We will acknowledge that when you first start to look for “clean” products, it can sometimes feel like certain bigger companies are absolutely price gouging you! Having said that, sustainable living is becoming more and more cost effective, especially if you are willing to do a little
more work yourself.
Another great example (in addition to the fast food example) is cloth diapering. Without wading too far into the weeds on that topic, it’s true that more and more babies are getting reactions to name brand throw-away diapers.
If you are willing to get organized, find a system that
works for you, and put in some extra effort, you absolutely can make a choice here that not only is healthier for your baby (natural fabric against their sensitive skin) but also more cost effective for you in the long run (I have friends that have reused their cloth diapers for all their kids!). Talk about big savings!
3) YOU’LL PROBABLY BE SUPPORTING A SMALL BUSINESS!
There’s so many choices here!
It probably comes as no surprise that large corporations are usually more willing to make cuts in places they shouldn’t because they don’t have as close a connection with their consumers.
Small businesses on the other hand tend to know their customers better and are often less willing to sacrifice their health for the big bucks.
When you start your journey to living “cleaner,” look
into small businesses. Reach out personally and get to know the individuals who make the products. Often, they will be more than willing to help you find a product that is personalized for your specific needs. I have found this to be true with many of the small businesses I support.
Remember, we actually need you as much as you need us!
There are so many more reasons, but I’ll let you sit with those three big ones. Remember, start SMALL (literally!).
Make small changes here and there.
Support small businesses.
Take one little step at a time. Your body, mind, and family will thank you for it in the long run!
Growing and Learning Together,
Anna Ketterling
