Understanding Chemical Overload: Signs, Prevention, and Natural Detox

During my journey to pursue a cleaner lifestyle and decrease the number of chemicals I am exposed to, I found it easy to fall down a rabbit hole. It can quickly become overwhelming, and you may feel like giving up because it's just too much to take on. Alternatively, some people become so hyper-focused on everything that they want to jump on every trend, doing every detox and cleanse they can find to make themselves toxin-free.

The reality is that we live on this planet and are exposed to toxins every day, no matter how careful we are. This realization led me to adopt the "good, better, best" theory.

• Best: This would mean living completely off the grid and being 100% in control of everything I am exposed to.

• Better: This involves being very selective about what I put in and on my body, limiting my exposure to microplastics, and supporting my body’s natural detox processes (our liver is a natural toxin detox machine). I also make sure to protect my mental and physical health because if we aren’t healthy in mind and body, our body can become toxic to itself.

• Good: Making small changes in daily life can make a significant impact. For example, switching from drinking out of plastic water bottles to using a reusable glass or aluminum bottle, transferring leftovers from plastic Tupperware to a glass, heat-safe container before reheating, limiting or eliminating processed foods, and switching to non-toxic, chemical-free beauty products and fragrance-free, aluminum-free deodorant.

I find that making small changes in your day-to-day life can have a significant impact on your overall health.

~Expert Insight from My Naturopath~

Dr. Shannon Morgenstern, Naturopathic Doctor here! Environmental medicine knowledge and focusing on minimizing your exposure to things that could be causing you harm is a great goal to have. I always encourage patients to do these things slowly and know ahead of time that it’s a process. It’s going to take you a while to optimize your lifestyle and habits, and aiming to do this over time and not trying to do it all at once will make it much easier and less stressful. I often suggest changing things when they need replacing. So, for example, if you finish up your shampoo or mascara today, see if you can find one that contains fewer problem ingredients for your next purchase.

Once you start delving into how some of these ingredients can affect you, it’s definitely overwhelming! Everything from cancer, autoimmune disease, and infertility to ADHD and even anxiety (among many other conditions) has been linked to your exposure to certain toxins and toxicants. But it’s important not to buy into every influencer-peddled product! If you’re worried about it or wanting to optimize things, definitely check in with someone who’s had training in Environmental Medicine who can help guide and support you on your journey! Naturopathic Doctors (like myself!) have often done this training and would be thrilled to help.

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Returning to my personal experience, I want to share some practical steps I have taken to identify and manage chemical overload. Dr. Shannon's advice is invaluable, and it’s important to remember that this is a gradual process. Now, let’s take a look at some of the signs that may indicate you could be facing chemical overload in your body and explore ways to help minimize your exposure and keep you healthy.

I am not a medical professional, and these symptoms are things that I have experienced and discovered during my own research. If you are concerned about any of these symptoms, I recommend seeking medical advice from a professional.

Signs of Chemical Overload

• Scalp Irritation: Redness, itching, or a burning sensation on your scalp can be early indicators of chemical overload.

• Hair Loss: Excessive shedding or thinning can result from the body's reaction to harmful chemicals.

• Dryness and Brittle Hair: Chemicals can strip your hair of natural oils, leading to dryness and breakage.

• Skin Issues: Rashes, eczema, or acne around the hairline or face can signal that your body is struggling to handle the chemical load.

• Fatigue: Unexplained tiredness or a lack of energy can be a systemic response to toxic buildup.

• Hormonal Imbalances: Disruptions in your menstrual cycle, mood swings, or weight changes can also be related to chemical overload.

How to Minimize Chemical Exposure

1. Choose Clean Products: Opt for hair care products that are free from sulfates, parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances. Look for organic and non-toxic labels.

2. Simplify Your Routine: Use fewer products and stick to the essentials. This reduces the overall chemical burden on your body.

3. Read Labels: Educate yourself on common harmful ingredients and read product labels carefully. Be cautious of greenwashing.

4. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps your body flush out toxins more effectively.

Natural Ways to Support Detox

1. Eat a Balanced Diet: Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet. Foods rich in antioxidants, like berries, green leafy vegetables, and nuts, support detoxification. I choose organic products when available.

2. Exercise Regularly: Physical activity increases circulation and promotes sweating, which can help release toxins through the skin.

3. Switch to Organic/Non-Toxic Hair Care: Use hair products that are organic and non-toxic, and choose hair colour that is free of traditional salon toxins. This can help reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals and improve the health of your hair and scalp.

4. Stay Stress-Free: Stress can impair your body’s natural detox processes. Practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help manage stress.

5. Get Plenty of Sleep: Your body’s detoxification processes are most active during sleep. Ensure you get 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night.

6. Find a Naturopathic Doctor: This was a game changer for me! Having a professional who can help make these changes with the knowledge and support of what supplements to take, what dosage you need, and when to STOP taking them, can be invaluable.

Recognizing the signs of chemical overload and taking proactive steps to minimize exposure is crucial for maintaining not just the health of your hair but your overall well-being. By choosing cleaner products, simplifying your routine, and supporting your body’s natural detox processes, you can achieve a healthier, toxin-free lifestyle.

If you are looking for personalized advice on transitioning to cleaner hair and beauty care, book a consultation with us at Salon True. If you are looking for support and more information on living a cleaner lifestyle, book a consultation with Dr. Shannon Morgenstern. Let’s work together to bring your hair dreams to life while prioritizing your overall health and well-being, never sacrificing your health for beauty.