If you've ever scrolled through a wellness blog or glanced at the labels on some of the latest health products, you've likely come across terms like "organic," "all-natural," or "toxin-free." While these phrases are becoming increasingly common, what they actually mean – and why they matter – may not be clear. Today, let's delve into one of these terms: Toxin-Free Living.

What is Toxin-Free Living?

In its simplest form, Toxin-Free Living is a conscious lifestyle choice to minimize exposure to toxins in our day-to-day lives. But what are these toxins we're talking about? They're harmful substances found in various aspects of our lives, from the food we eat to the air we breathe, the clothes we wear, and the products we use.

Toxins can be found in pesticides used on non-organic produce, chemicals in cleaning and personal care products, air and water pollution, synthetic materials, and more. While these toxins are often in small amounts, consistent exposure can accumulate in our bodies, potentially leading to health issues over time.

Why Does It Matter?

There's a growing body of research suggesting that long-term exposure to certain toxins can contribute to a range of health problems, from allergies and asthma to more severe conditions like cancer and neurological disorders. While our bodies are equipped with natural detoxification processes, the overwhelming presence of toxins in our modern lives can overburden these systems.

Toxin-Free Living isn't about creating a 100% toxin-free bubble – that would be virtually impossible in our interconnected world. Instead, it's about making informed choices where we can to reduce overall exposure and support our body's natural detox processes.

The Benefits of Toxin-Free Living

Embracing a toxin-free lifestyle can have numerous benefits, not just for our health but for the environment too. Here are a few:

1. Improved Health: By reducing exposure to harmful substances, you support your body's natural systems and potentially decrease the risk of certain health conditions.

2. Environmental Impact: Many toxin-free choices, like opting for organic produce or natural cleaning products, also benefit the environment by reducing pollution and supporting sustainable practices.

3. Increased Mindfulness: Toxin-Free Living naturally encourages more mindful consumption, helping you become more aware of what you're putting into and onto your body.

Your Toxin-Free Journey

Embarking on a toxin-free lifestyle doesn't have to be overwhelming. It can start with small, manageable steps like switching to a natural soap or buying organic for certain "high-risk" produce. As you learn more, you'll find there are many areas where you can make healthier choices.

Throughout this journey, remember that the goal isn't perfection. It's about doing the best you can with the knowledge and resources you have. Every step, no matter how small, is a step towards a healthier you and a healthier planet.

Acquire, Prepare, Adore

In the world of gastronomy, an exceptional tool doesn't merely assist—it transforms the culinary endeavor. Welcome to your journey with the TOXYFREE Carbon Steel Pan. Each of our pans is crafted with a fervent commitment to quality, reflecting the same passion you bring to creating each dish.

However, before we embark on this symphony of flavors, it's essential to understand: Your TOXYFREE pan is more than a kitchen companion—it's a symbol of a healthier lifestyle, a testament to mindful living.

The Goodness of Going Chemical-Free

Your TOXYFREE pan comes with a promise—the promise of a chemical-free cooking experience. It bravely steers clear of the commonly used non-stick PFAS, notorious for their potential health risks. Unidentified coatings that pose a threat to our well-being? They have no place on our pans.

Instead, we offer a natural beeswax coating to protect your pan from rust during transportation. A solution born from nature, for your health. Once your pan arrives, we entrust you to continue this legacy.

Embrace the Season(ing)

Like an artist preparing a canvas, the process of seasoning your TOXYFREE pan is crucial. A ritual to be conducted 2-3 times initially, seasoning forms the initial layer of patina—a natural, non-toxic alternative to synthetic non-stick coatings.

We recommend oils such as beef fat, bacon fat, duck fat, or avocado oil, for this sacred act. Apply a thin layer and heat until it starts smoking. Once cooled, wipe off the excess oil and repeat. This practice not only provides a natural non-stick surface but also shields your pan against rust. An uneven application or the use of inappropriate oils might result in spotting during seasoning.

Just like a story unfolding with every page, your pan will develop its unique character with each use. It's a masterpiece in the making.

The Storage & Care

Treasure your TOXYFREE pan as a culinary heirloom. Store it in a cool, dry environment, away from moisture that might incite rust. A slight layer of oil serves as its guardian armor, protecting it while adding to the patina.

In Case of Rust...

Despite the pan's resilience, should rust make an appearance, follow this protocol:

1. Wash the pan inside and out with warm water and a soft sponge.
2. Dry it completely.
3. Add a mixture of lemon juice or white vinegar and salt.
4. Scrub gently for a couple of minutes.
5. Rinse out and dry.
6. Scrub thoroughly with a steel scrubber (only to be used in this rust-removal process) with the addition of lemon juice or white vinegar and baking soda to neutralize the acid.
7. Rinse and dry completely.
8. Immediately re-season your pan.

However, remember that rust is not covered under warranty—this is where your commitment to care comes in.

Choosing the TOXYFREE Carbon Steel Pan means investing in your health, your culinary narrative. With mindful care and usage, it will reward you with uncompromised cooking experiences and healthier, more flavorful meals.

Welcome to the TOXYFREE family, where the magic of healthy and delicious cooking begins.

In the bustling rhythm of modern life, it's easy to overlook the importance of mindful living. But the secret to lasting wellness isn't in the latest fads; it's in returning to our roots, to a lifestyle free of environmental toxins.

Whether you're just beginning your journey or you're a seasoned pro looking to refine your approach, we've put together a list of 10 wellness tips for a toxin-free lifestyle. Let's dive in!

1. Embrace Organic and Local Food

Modern agriculture is fraught with pesticides and other harmful chemicals. Choosing organic food is an effective way to reduce your exposure to these toxins. Support your local farmers—fresh, seasonal produce not only tastes better but also leaves a smaller environmental footprint. Listen in as Dr Robert Lustig explains how to reverse all modern health problems with just 3 words: Eat Real Food. 

2. Create a Green Home Sanctuary

Your home should be a haven of wellness. Fill your refuge with as many naturally made items as possible. Opt for natural cleaning products instead of chemical-laden cleaners. Consider reducing plastic use, or better yet, go plastic-free. Embrace houseplants—they're not just aesthetic but also excellent at purifying indoor air.

3. Be Mindful of Your Skincare

Your skin absorbs what you put on it. Many skincare products on the market are brimming with questionable ingredients. Learn to read labels, choose products with natural ingredients, and avoid those with long lists of synthetic compounds. Or better yet, make your own! Read how in the Heal Your Gut with Bone Broth book or take our pre-recorded digital class. 

4. Prioritize Clean, Hydrating Water

Staying hydrated is crucial for health, but not all water is created equal. Look into a quality filtration system for your home and drink from glass or stainless steel containers to avoid plastic pollutants. See our Water Guide for resources.

5. Choose Natural Clothing

Toxins aren't just in what we consume but also in what we wear. Synthetic fabrics often contain harmful chemicals. Opt for clothing made of natural fibers like organic cotton, hemp, or linen. They're better for you and for the planet!

6. Practice Mindful Eating

Take time to savor your food, appreciate its journey to your plate, and listen to your body's hunger and fullness cues. This approach can enhance digestion, reduce stress, and foster a healthier relationship with food.

7. Engage with Nature

Physical activity is an essential part of wellness. Whenever possible, take your exercise outdoors. Whether it's a run in the park or a leisurely walk by the beach, spending time in nature can significantly uplift your mental well-being.

8. Cultivate Restful Sleep

A good night's sleep is a pillar of health. Reduce screen time before bed, maintain a dark, quiet sleeping environment, and establish a consistent sleep schedule. Prioritize rest—it's just as crucial as diet and exercise. See our Sleep Guide for resources.

9. Experiment with DIY Home Products

Many common household and beauty products can be made at home with simple, natural ingredients. It's cost-effective, fun, and allows you to control what goes into the products you use daily. Take our digital class to learn how!

10. Stay Informed and Be Patient

Living toxin-free is a journey, not a destination. Be patient with your progress and take one step at a time. Keep learning, stay curious, and remember: every little change contributes to a healthier you and a happier planet.

In our pursuit of wellness, we must never forget that the most effective solutions often lie in the simplest practices. Here's to a healthier, toxin-free life!

Have you ever considered that the products you use daily might be affecting your health and weight?

In a recent eye-opening Instagram Live session (https://www.instagram.com/p/CrQ3acRBMmB/), we explored the concept of "The Product Diet" and discussed how the items we interact with daily can have significant consequences on our well-being. This blog post will dive deeper into this idea and share essential tips to help you make healthier choices.

The Hidden Culprits in Everyday Products:

It's easy to overlook the ingredients in the products we use, from personal care items to household cleaners. These products often contain chemicals and additives that can potentially harm our health. For instance, parabens and phthalates found in some cosmetics have been linked to hormonal disruptions. Similarly, many cleaning products contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can contribute to respiratory issues and other health problems.

The Connection to Weight:

The chemicals present in everyday products can also impact your weight. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), such as BPA and phthalates, can interfere with hormones regulating metabolism, appetite, and fat storage, leading to weight gain. By opting for products with fewer harmful chemicals, you can reduce your exposure to these health hazards and better manage your weight.

Tips for Adopting a Healthier Product Diet:

1. Read Labels: Get into the habit of reading labels and familiarize yourself with common harmful ingredients. This will help you make informed decisions when purchasing products.

2. Go Natural: Choose natural and organic products whenever possible. These options typically contain fewer synthetic chemicals and are gentler on your body and the environment.

3. DIY Cleaning Products: Learn how to create your own organic cleaning products with everyday items like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. This not only reduces your exposure to harmful chemicals but can also save you money.

4. Store Food Safely: Avoid using plastic containers, especially for hot or fatty foods, as they can leach chemicals into your food. Instead, go glass! Glass is chemically inert and can be reused indefinitely. It also looks beautiful in your home.

Adopting a healthier "Product Diet" is an essential step towards improving your overall health and weight. By being more intentional with the choice of items you use every day, you can minimize your exposure to harmful chemicals and enjoy a healthier life. For more tips and insights, be sure to check out our Instagram Live session on this topic: https://www.instagram.com/p/CrQ3acRBMmB/.

Making the connection between food supply and human health/quality of life will transform your life. While not exhaustive, these are some of the common effects that environmental toxins (food, water, products) have on our health:

Autism (increased prevalence)

Alzheimer's

Asthma

ADHD

Cancer

Cardiovascular issues

Childhood cancer

Childhood obesity

Reproductive problems

Respiratory diseases

Heart difficulties & disease

Obesity

Hormone interference

Influences growth and development

Immune dysfunction

Autoimmunity

Allergies

Cognitive deficit

Mood changes

Neurological illnesses

Neurological diseases (Parkinson's, MS, Alzheimer's)

Developmental disabilities (Cerebral palsy, autism)

Changes in libido

Reproductive dysfunction

Glucose dysfunction

Chronic fatigue syndrome

Myalgic encephalomyelitis

High blood pressure

Diabetes

Teratogenicity and other allergens

Physical deformities

Behavioral or mental disorders

Reduced IQ

Cell damage

Interference with genes

Gene expression

Scoliosis and neural tube defects

Birth defects

Congenital eye abnormalities

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Infectious diseases

Acute illnesses like heat exhaustion

Heat-related illnesses during heat waves

Developmental disabilities in children

Low birthweight

Low sperm counts

Low testosterone levels

Preterm delivery

General mortality

Stillbirths

Genital malformations

Undescended testes

Reduction of breast milk nutritional quality 

Infant mortality

Life expectancy

After pregancy: short and long-term hypertension, diabetes, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, breast cancer later in life

SOURCES:

TOXICOLOGICAL AND TERATOGENIC EFFECT OF VARIOUS FOOD ADDITIVES: AN UPDATED REVIEW https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9249520/

HUMAN EXPOSURES AND HEALTH https://www.epa.gov/report-environment/human-exposure-and-health

INTRODUCTION TO ENVIRONMENTAL PUBLIC HEALTH TRACKING https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/tracking/tracking-intro.html

ENVIRONMENTAL MEDICINE, PART ONE: THE HUMAN BURDEN OF ENVIRONMENTAL TOXINS AND THEIR COMMON HEALTH EFFECTS https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10696119/

THE MANY HEALTH RISKS OF PROCESSED FOODS https://www.lhsfna.org/the-many-health-risks-of-processed-foods/#:~:text=Heavily%20processed%20foods%20often%20include,high%20blood%20pressure%20and%20diabetes.

Ah, Turkey Day! For most, it's a day of indulgence, feasting on the classic bird. But what if your dietary needs lead you on a different path, one less traveled? Those of us following a grain-free diet due to autoimmune conditions or personal preferences might find the typical poultry options troublesome. But fear not, I have an exciting solution for you: Leg of Lamb.

Now, this isn't just any leg of lamb recipe. It's one that's earned a special place in my family's heart and on our holiday table. Only a few times a year, when we're lucky enough to get our hands on our cherished grassfed lamb from our favorite local farmer, does this delectable dish make an appearance.

In its rarity, it's an event—an anticipated joy. Yes, it takes a little extra elbow grease, but I assure you, every second is worth the burst of flavor and the health benefits it brings.

This recipe is adapted from "Roast Leg of Lamb with Herbs in the Style of Castile" from Stanley Fishman's masterpiece, Tender Grassfed Meat. Here's my spin:

Ingredients:

• One 100% grassfed leg of lamb roast (Smaller sizes work amazingly well)
• 100% grassfed natural fats: beef, bison, lamb, water buffalo (I suggest combining at least 1/4-1/2 cup of two)
• Raw, unfiltered, organic olive oil (1/4-1/2 cup)
• Organic fresh herbs: thyme, oregano, rosemary, sage, parsley (a handful of sprigs)
• Organic garlic (2 cloves, quartered lengthwise)
• Organic salt

Preparation Steps:

1. Start a couple of days ahead by thawing your precious 100% grassfed leg of lamb roast.

2. As the anticipation builds, melt 1/2 cup (or more) of at least two types of 100% grassfed fats. My favorites are beef fat, lamb fat, bison fat, or water buffalo fat.

3. In the meantime, engage with your roast. Make several incisions across the lamb, deep enough to reach the center.

4. Now it's time to fill those incisions with the flavorsome garlic slivers. On adventurous days, I've been known to sneak in some herbs into the slits. The result? Unforgettable!

5. Sprinkle your roast generously with organic salt, and begin the anointing process with your array of oils.

6. Give your masterpiece a well-deserved rest, let it marinate in the fridge for up to two days, allowing the flavors to truly fuse.

7. Finally, the cooking. This roast welcomes versatility. You can follow the book's method or slow roast in a covered roasting pan for 8 hours. Either way, it's a treat to your taste buds!

Book's Cooking Method:

• Allow the roast to sit at room temperature for at least an hour.
• Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.
• Position the roast over the stripped stems of the herbs and rosemary sprigs.
• Pour any remaining marinade over the roast and roast for 15 minutes.
• Baste the roast with the pan drippings, reduce the heat to 300 degrees and cook for 30 minutes.
• Baste again, and then cook for another 30 minutes. Your roast should now be a juicy, tender delight!

F O O D

Eat Fat, Lose Weight by Mary Enig & Sally Fallon

Nourishing Traditions by Sally Fallon

Know your Fats by Mary Enig

Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price

Good Calories, Bad Calories OR Why We Get Fat by Gary Taubes

Fat and Cholesterol are GOOD for You by Uffe Ravnskov

Primal Body, Primal Mind by Nora Gedgaudas

Deep Nutrition by Catherine Shanahan

Real Food by Nina Planck

Traditional Foods are the Best Medicine by Ronald Schmid

Primal Blueprint by Mark Sisson

The Paleo Diet by Loren Cordain

Paleo Solution by Robb Wolf

Twinkie Deconstructed by Steve Ettlinger

The Dorito Effect by Mark Schatzker

The End of Overeating by David A. Kessler

C O O K I N G

Tender Grassfed Meat by Stanley Fishman

The Grassfed Gourmet by Shannon Hayes

The Butcher's Guide to Well-Raised Meat by Joshua and Jessica Applestone

Nom Nom Paleo Food for Humans by Michelle Tam and Henry Fong

Forgotten Skills of Cooking by Darrina Allen

In the Green Kitchen by Alice Waters

Digestive Health With REAL Food by Aglaée Jacob

Think Like a Chef by Tom Colicchio

What to Cook and How to Cook It by Jane Hornby

The Way to Cook by Julia Child

The River Cottage Meat Book by Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall

Jamie's Food Revolution by Jamie Oliver

Mastering Knife Skills by Norman Weinstein

The Flavor Bible by Andrew Dornenburg

T O X I N - F R E E   L I V I N G 

Slow Death by Rubber Duck by Rick Smith and Bruce Lourie

Sicker Fatter Poorer by Dr Leo Trasande

The Obesogen Effect by Bruce Blumberg

Our Daily Poison by Marie-Monique Robin

Our Stolen Future by Theo Colborn 

Countdown: How Our Modern World Is Threatening Sperm Counts, Altering Male and Female Reproductive Development, and Imperiling the Future of the Human Race by Shanna Swan

There's no getting around the biological fact that WE ARE ALL MADE OF CELLS and our cells interact with EVERYTHING they come into contact with: food, air, water, clothing, household items, earth, animals, invisible microbes EVERYTHING! So, we are only as healthy as what we allow our cells to come into contact with! 

So you might be thinking: "What does that mean for me? For my family?" In our modern world with so many wonderful inventions and technologies, what it means for all of us is that we have a lot more considering to do. 

From now on, CONSIDER the world as you navigate it! It is a fun game for all of us! What exactly is that? What is that made of? What are those particles? What are those ingredients? Is that something natural? Is that manmade? Is this safe? Could this harm my health?

Use your senses too! Start looking at items and smelling items. If your nose smells something dangerous, the nose KNOWS to keep your cells away from it! And remember, lots of everyday items have HIDDEN ingredients like obesogens (chemicals that cause obesity and other health issues) or fire retardants (extremely toxic and harmful to humans) or forever chemicals (that persist FOREVER continually harming humans) or more!

The easiest route is to keep things natural. Just like our food, if you can't see and smell that this item comes from a natural material then it might just be safest to avoid contact with it. It's as easy as inviting your WONDER and AWE as you go through life! Thinking about each person, object, and item as you meander on your way makes life safe and fun! 

• tempeh (Indonesia)
• poi (Hawaii)
• kimchi (Korea)
• injera (Ethiopia)
• doogh (Iran/Syria/Lebanon)
• chutney (India)
• sauerkraut (Europe)
• cucumber relish (United States)
• miso (Japan)
• kombucha (Russia/Ukraine)
• sourdough bread (Europe/United States)
• crème fraiche (France)
• salami (Europe)
• lutefisk (Norway)
• kiviak (Greenland)
• worcestershire sauce (England)
• cod liver oil (Scandinavia)
• yogurt (worldwide)

Even more foods that have been fermented:

• eggs
• fish
• garlic
• mustard
• ketchup
• salsa
• vinegar
• seaweed
• acorn
• nuts & seeds
• rhubarb (must be cooked first)
• potatoes (must be cooked first)
• shrimp
• cauliflower
• radish
• squash
• chorizo
• mushrooms
• celery
• corn
• blackberries
• hibiscus
• beans
• peanuts
• peas
• lardo
• passion fruit
• grains
• tofu
• carrots
• ramps
• walnuts
• lettuce
• peppers
• herbs
• figs
• quince
• persimmon
• lemons
• beets
• asparagus
• onions
• tea leaves
• wild rose
• chiles
• lemongrass
• shallot
• honey
• salmon
• carrots
• fennel
• milkweed buds
• seagulls
• shark
• tuna
• scallops
• squid
• ginger
• grape leaves
• taro root
• orange marmalade
• apricot butter
• cocoa
• coffee
• soy sauce