We all love the convenience of modern products, right? Everything from skincare, food, and household items are now made for easier use, buying convenience, and storage efficiency. But when you are also concerned with your health and the environment, it gets a little trickier. However, many more of us are asking about a happy medium that serves both needs. So, how can we choose products that are healthful and good for the planet? I know the first thing to have is savvy awareness.
Becoming a brilliant shopper isn’t always as simple as reading a label. They could claim to be eco-friendly or sustainable but there may be fine print that counteracts their claims. Unfortunate marketing ploys make it so important to understand what you’re reading. Do know that it’s possible to make good choices for brands that prioritize not just personal wellness but sustainability. With that in mind, keep reading to find out how you can choose products that are healthful and good for the planet.
Understand The Impact Of What You Buy
When you’re choosing products that are good for you and the planet, understand more about what you’re buying. You need to know all about the raw materials used to make the product in the first place. Of course, you also need to know about it’s packaging, how it’s shipped, and how to dispose of it. The fact is that every stage of products from beginning to end impacts the environment. You can make sure the products you use are as positive as possible before you invest your money.
Then there’s your health to consider. For example, beauty and skincare products are notorious for having harmful ingredients. Some items contain chemicals like parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances, which are absorbed into your skin on contact. These can negatively affect your health and have plastic packaging that ends up in landfills or the ocean.
It doesn’t sound great, but there is good news. More brands are recognizing the need to produce items that are better for both you and the environment. Look for brands made with natural, organic ingredients and packaged in materials that are either reusable, recyclable, or biodegradable.
Make Reusable And Low-Waste Products Your First Choice
If you want to be more conscious when you go shopping, it’s best to look for things that are reusable or low-waste. Single-use items are bad for the environment and detrimental to your health? They could have chemicals that leach out into food, drink, makeup etc. and go into your body. When you opt for reusable products, like glass water bottles, beeswax wraps, or cloth shopping bags, it helps reduce your personal waste footprint.
Even period products are getting a makeover for health and the environment. Companies such as Tampon Tribe are working hard to make products better for women. Unfortunately, traditional tampons and pads often contain synthetic materials and chemicals that you probably don’t want anywhere near your body,
Know What’s In Your Products
It’s easy to assume that if something is on the shelves, it’s safe to use, but the sad reality is that many everyday products contain harmful ingredients that can affect both your health and the planet. Know exactly what you bring into your home.
Most families want clean and refreshing homes, but, unfortunately, so many of the standard cleaning products are full of harsh chemicals. These can cause breathing problems, skin irritation, and other health issues for humans and pets. Additionally, once they go down the drain, they can end up in waterways and that’s horrific for wildlife and the environment.
Don’t worry, though; you can still keep your house clean and smelling fresh. Look for labels that say things like “paraben-free,” “fragrance-free,” “non-toxic,” or “organic.” And when it comes to cleaning supplies, there are plenty of plant-based, biodegradable options available that clean just as effectively without the harmful side effects.
Be Minimalist
Living as a minimalist can be better for you and the planet. Choosing this lifestyle has benefits that support a clean, healthful, planet conscious life. In fact, minimalism can be one of the best ways to live a more sustainable life. And remember, minimalism isn’t about depriving yourself of things you want, it means making better choices about what to bring into your life.
When you focus on quality over quantity and use things that reduce waste and are eco-friendly, you help the planet. You’ll have less clutter in your home, and since clutter leads to stress, you’ll be reducing your stress levels. This helps balance your mental health and promote physical wellness.
Final Thoughts
Choosing healthful products that are good for you and the planet might sound tricky, but putting a plan of action in place makes it perfectly possible, and it’s something you should do more often than not. Why not try it?