Faith M. Davis is an Integrative Healing Practitioner, Reiki Master, and number 1 bestselling author of Why You’re Not Healing: 10 Radical Shifts for a Lasting Whole Body Transformation.
Eating clean and living toxin-free is more important than ever in a world filled with pollution, toxins, preservatives, additives, and the list goes on.
Today, even the "healthiest" foods can be secretly filled with toxins, leaving even health conscious people shaking their heads. So how do you know if what you're eating is secretly harming your health?
Here's a guide to help you understand modern food production so you can make choices that are not only better for you but also for the planet.
6 ways to stop eating toxic food
Making mindful food choices is the most powerful step you can take toward a healthier life. Here are six strategies that will help you minimize your intake of toxins.
Reduce processed/packaged food
We can't deny the convenience of processed and packaged foods, especially in a reality that demands we be productive and move at a fast pace. But we can't deny the health risks they pose.
Most processed and packaged foods contain harmful additives, preservatives, and chemicals that can disrupt our body's natural functions.
One of the best ways to start healing the body is to gradually cut back on processed foods and add more whole foods into your diet. Not only will you reduce your exposure to toxins, but you'll also enjoy meals that are more nutritious and flavorful.
Buy organic produce & animal products
Choosing organic fruit, vegetables, meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy ensures that you're not consuming toxins like pesticides, herbicides, and antibiotics.
Organic farming practices are more sustainable and less harmful to the environment, which means cleaner food on your plate.
Keep in mind that pasture-raised meats and raw dairy products typically exceed the quality of their organic counterparts. This means they offer far superior nutrition and fewer toxins.
Eat healthier sugar & salt options
Refined sugar and table salt are ubiquitous in virtually everyone's diet. They are hidden in everything from breakfast cereals to salad dressings and everything in between.
It's important to note that refined sugar and salt are stripped of their natural nutrients and can lead to a host of health problems.
Reduce refined sugars by replacing them with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, and use unrefined salt options like Celtic sea salt, which is rich in minerals and much less likely to cause blood pressure spikes.
Make your own dressings & marinades
The ready-made dressings and marinades you’ll find at the grocery store are loaded with unhealthy oils, sugars, and preservatives.
Making your own is surprisingly easy and gives you control over the quality of the ingredients you use.
Start with basic recipes and experiment with herbs and spices to create flavors that suit your palate. You'll avoid a load of toxins and discover the joy of creating your own meals.
Reduce foods with unhealthy vegetable oils
Most processed foods contain unhealthy vegetable oils that are high in omega-6 fatty acids, which contribute to inflammation and chronic disease.
It's important to know which oils to avoid, such as canola, soybean, and corn oils, and to replace them with healthier alternatives, such as olive, coconut, or avocado oil.
For a detailed list of good and bad oils, visit here.
Get a really good water filter
Water is essential to life, but not all water is created equal. Tap water contains contaminants such as chlorine, fluoride, and heavy metals that pose health risks, and many water filters leave those toxins in as well.
Investing in a high-quality water filter can be a great way to remove these toxins. Look into options like reverse osmosis or structured water filters to make sure you're hydrating with the cleanest water possible.
Final thoughts
If you’ve been wondering why you’re not healing, these strategies can lead you to a cleaner, healthier diet that is free of harmful toxins. Although it may feel overwhelming at first, detoxing your life is not that complex. Take it one step at a time and be kind to yourself as you make these changes.
If you would like to delve deeper into this topic, check out my new course: Nourishing Nutrition Makeover. I will teach you how to take back control of your own well-being and unleash your best, most vital and healthy version.
Faith M. Davis, Integrative Healing Practitioner
Faith M. Davis is an Integrative Healing Practitioner, Reiki Master, and number 1 bestselling author of Why You’re Not Healing: 10 Radical Shifts for a Lasting Whole Body Transformation. After healing herself of fibromyalgia, adrenal fatigue, hormonal imbalances, candida overgrowth, neurotransmitter imbalances, and more, she is on a mission to help others reach their health goals and live a vibrant life.
