I put together a list of healthier alternatives to everyday products, not to come off as too much of a hippie but I think it’s important to share. These alternatives are super easy, take minimal effort and in some cases actually save you money (PLUS: Health is Wealth). Sure they’re not all as “green” or as “clean” as you can go but something is better than nothing.
Deodorant
There is some seriously processed stuff on the market when it comes to deodorant. I’ve said this soooo many times but listen, your skin is your biggest organ, it’s like a big mouth and whatever you put on it, you put in it. Swap out your over processed deodorant for a more natural option. Once you go and check out the ingredients list on your deodorant you’ll be surprised by what you see. I tend to reach for Native or Tom’s, both of these are pretty good. There are cleaner, more natural options if you’re interested in those, check these out, but generally between Native and Tom’s I am happy with what’s in them and the job they do.
Another even healthier alternative, you can make your own deodorant, which is super easy for all you super granola folks (its me). It’s literally just a handful of ingredients you probably already have at home, baking soda, arrowroot powder, virgin coconut oil and your favourite essential oil for scent.
Not going to lie here – I did this and it’s actually pretty good. I was a little hesitant to share that because I don’t want to come off like too much of a hippie BUT when I realized it was truly that easy, I gave it a try. I’m a runner and I’d say it works pretty well.
Toothpaste
This is another one that is super easy to swap out. There are so many clean, non toxic toothpaste options on the market, just make sure you’re reading those ingredient labels! The biggest thing I look to avoid in a toothpaste is artificial colouring and sweeteners. My personal favourite is Tom’s Whole Care Spearmint and it has no artificial flavours, colours or preservatives. Another thing that’s super great about Tom’s is that on the ingredients list it explains the purpose of each ingredient and the source. They are very transparent about what the product consists of which is something I like in a product. When it comes to toothpaste just like deodorant you can make your own pretty easily or you can check out this list of other pretty good natural options. FULL disclosure here, I have not tried to make my own toothpaste and I don’t think I will, but I’ll never say never.
** Bonus – you can also make the swap to a bamboo toothbrush to cut down on plastic. This option is not for everyone but you can always give it a try! I also ditched my plastic loofah for a bamboo dry brush (total game changer).
Cotton Rounds
Just make the switch!!! I love using my reusable cotton rounds even more than the traditional throw away ones. If you take care of them they last pretty long so yes this option is sustainable and also saves you money. I have tried a few different brands but generally cotton rounds are super soft and wash really well. So you’re creating less waste, saving money and the product is actually nicer on your face (in my opinion). Linked here is a 20 pack of organic bamboo cotton rounds with a wash bag, my skin is pretty sensitive and they work great for me. There are so many different options and from what I’ve read some different cottons work better for certain skin types. Look into this option, you won’t regret it.
Glass Containers
I despise plastic containers. There I said it. Like actually despise. I made the switch a few years ago and honestly it was such a great decision. Glass containers are among the best when it comes to healthier alternatives. Firstly, you can heat and reheat glass containers over and over without worrying about any chemical seeping into your food. Secondly, glass containers are WAY more durable. They don’t end up dyed or smell like food residue after being used. They are oven safe. You can freeze them.
Need I go on? So like I mentioned I got a set of them a few ago, mine are from Costco (I think I have two sets or maybe they’re just Costco size) but you can get them pretty much anywhere now.
Overall, there are so many things that you can do to positively impact your health. As always, these are just a few that work for me, take ’em or leave ’em. If you have made the switch to some healthier alternatives in your daily life let me know. I’d love to know what you’re doing!
If you liked this post and you’re interested in some other health and wellness pieces look no further than here.
