Did you know we are exposed to toxic chemicals known to be cancer-causing compounds on a daily basis? And I’m not just talking just about industrial chemicals used in factories around the world. So many of the products we buy—from carpets to furniture, household cleaning products to perfumes and of course beauty products—can all contain harmful carcinogens. We need to be more aware of what is harmful for our bodies in order to better protect ourselves and our families.
 
Take a look at what the Environmental Working Group (EWG) uncovered in their latest research about pollution in our bodies caused by chemicals. According to EWG, “The ubiquity of chemicals in modern life means we cannot eliminate exposure, but we have some control through our consumer choices…” and “Reducing exposures to carcinogens, whether through regulation or personal choices, can have important health benefits.”
 
I’d love to hear your thoughts on these research findings. It’s an involved but interesting read!
 
While you’re at it You should also check out their shopping tips for safer beauty products. And start making the choice to ensure what you put on your body is toxic free.

​As I began planning the relaunch of the Authentic Skin Remedies website late last year, I initially thought I should distance my cancer story from my skin care products. I wanted the products to stand on their own as a healthy, organic choice for skin care beauty that works.
 
I quickly realized that my personal connection to Authentic Skin – protecting our bodies from harmful chemicals and environmental factors – is my passion. And this is why Authentic Skin Remedies exists,  and why I am so happy to share my products and my story with my friends, family and customers.

Over the years, I’ve researched, studied and analyzed everything possible about healthy living. I do not consider myself an expert by any means. But I feel what I know and share could help inform choices that are good for you and your families.
 
So here goes!
 
While what we put on our bodies has been a huge focus of mine, I think the best place to start is with what we put in our bodies. So let’s kick this off with food!

Organic food is now mainstream and for good reason. But cost is a big consideration – it’s expensive to maintain an all-organic diet. One of my go-to grocery lists (thanks to my friends at Fully Raw) for fruits and veggies is the Dirty Dozen. The top most pesticide contaminated fruits and veggies out there. Don’t eliminate these from your diet but try to buy the organic versions if at all possible:
 
Fruits: Apples, Grapes, Nectarines, Peaches, Strawberries and Blueberries
Veggies: Celery, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Potatoes, Spinach, Sweet Bell Peppers
  
And then there is the Clean 15 list – thanks again to Fully Raw. These are the top fruits and veggies that, on average, contain the lowest amount of toxins. Save money by buying the non-organic versions and always rinse well before you eat or cook:
 
Fruits: Pineapple, Mango, Grapefruit, Kiwi, Honeydew Melon, Watermelon
Veggies: Onions, Avocado, Sweet Corn (watch for GMO), Sweet Peas, Eggplant, Cauliflower, Asparagus, Cabbage, Sweet Potatoes
 
What do you buy that’s organic? I’d love to know and share your ‘must-have’ organic foods. How do you manage the high cost of buying organic foods? Please add your comments and feedback below and let’s discuss!