Everyday products that may be affecting your gut health

Running after a nearly one year old and working a full time job does not leave me much time to focus on writing at the moment.

Speaking of which... today I thought I'd write about what every day home and beauty products may be affecting your gut health.

When it comes to good gut health, nutrition is key and so is reducing aggravating factors which also include home and beauty products. 

Many home and beauty products (when used often) can potentially disrupt hormonal balance, cause inflammation and imbalances in the gut microbiome which can lead to poor gut health.

Below is a list of 5 common home and beauty products you may or may not be using and what to use instead:

Hair spray

Do you use hair spray to stop those fly away strands? These sprays often contains chemicals like phthalates and alcohols that can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin which can negatively impact the gut.

Instead use a natural hair spray. I personally use Giovanni LA Hold hair sprits which contains no parabens, SLS's or harsh chemicals. 

Nail Polish

Do you get your nails done at the salon on the regular? Chemicals such as formaldehyde, toluene, and phthalates can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled, potentially disrupting hormone balance and triggering oxidative stress, which may indirectly affect gut health.

Avoiding inhaling these chemicals at the salon can be tricky, however you could take a hand held fan with you or wear a mask. You could also do your nails at home outside or use a fan behind you to blow the fumes away. 

Plastic water bottles or containers

BPA and phthalates are common chemicals found in many plastic products. BPA is known to interfere with hormones and has been linked to metabolic disorders, while phthalates can cause oxidative stress and inflammation, further damaging gut health.

Instead consider investing in a reusable metal water bottle and glass/metal or BPA free containers to reduce exposure to these chemicals. 

Make up

Many of our make up products contain chemicals like parabens, phthalates, and heavy metals, which may be absorbed through the skin or inhaled, potentially disrupting hormonal balance and contributing to oxidative stress, leading to inflammation and imbalances in the gut microbiome, ultimately affecting gut health.

Instead try using more natural products and/or wearing make up less often. There are a variety of natural make up products available on the market today giving you plenty to choose from.

Chemicals to clean the house

Cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, and antibacterial agents, which can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin, potentially disrupting the gut microbiome.

Instead choose the natural cleaning products available at your local store. Woolworths and Coles have a great range of natural products available. You can even get creative and make your own!

If you currently use any of these home and beauty products start by making a few swops over time.

Reducing your exposure to the chemicals they contain will not only better your gut health but also your overall health. 

I hope you found this newsletter helpful in reducing your exposure to these products.

And, if you'd like some help and support with improving GUT health, losing weight sustainably or improving your relationship with food why not book in for a nutrition consultation? I offer consults via Telehealth or In-Person.

For more information or to book an appointment visit: https://www.louiseellennutrition.com.au/nutrition-services