We Are What We Consume

This week I went to my homegirl Mel who is hands down the best aesthetician in Portland. She uses completely organic products and holistically treats all different types of skin. I went to see her this week because I had an irregular breakout on my chin. Being the all-knowing goddess she is, she asked me what kind of toothpaste I was using. I laughed and thought what the heck does that have to do with anything. She told me that using toothpaste packed with synthetics can actually cause the pores around your mouth to become clogged and inflamed. It makes sense right? I was using a crappy toothpaste and I was reaping the anticipated consequences of doing so.

Anyway, this post is not about my skin and cynicism. Its about the conversation that this experience initiated. We started talking about the idea that you are what you consume, and you consume more than just food. Your body is constantly absorbing/being exposed to different products, aerosols, and environmental factors. You use different lotions, shampoos, perfumes, makeup, hand sanitizers, soap, multivitamins, etc. etc. the list is infinite. Simply stated, we are the product of what we use, consume, and expose ourselves to. This got me thinking about some of the products I use day-to-day. Am I using cleaning products packed full of toxic chemicals? Was the shampoo in my shower void of sulfates, dyes, and nasty materials? Were Clay and I taking morning supplements filled with the best ingredients possible? Was the soap in our kitchen, that both my husband and I use, harsh or gentle on the skin?

The list went on and on. I realized that choosing to use products that are “clean” is a conscious day-to-day choice that you have to make. Our bodies do so much for us and they deserve nothing short of the best care possible. The problem is, with so many brands out there how do we know what to use and keep in our home? This is where I would say, take two seconds and read the back of your product labels. Just because a product is eco-friendly doesn’t mean that it is safe and healthy to have around. There are so many amazing products out there and so many great new ones being invented! Take the time to research and actually care about what you surround yourself with.

I decided to put together a little list of some of my favorite “clean” things that I have researched, tested, love and use. Enjoy!