Happy Earth Day

Steps you can take to live a little greener and healthier all year long.

When I was first diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, I learned that part of supporting my immune system was to stop bombarding it with toxic substances. The body is an amazing healing machine; we just have to stay out of its way.

Today, on Earth Day, I wanted to share some ways that you can take action from home to help your immune system and the environment.

Stop buying bottled water – You know how I feel about hydration… I do think it’s a good idea to keep water at your side, but for water on the go, get a refillable bottle made of stainless steel or glass. Don’t buy plastic or aluminum lined with plastic. Here are some of my favorites, and all of these are brands that give back: Love Bottle, S’well, or Soma.

Don’t use non-stick cookware – Replace it with cast-iron, stainless steel, enamel coated iron, ceramic coated steel, or glass. I know it can be expensive, but keep in mind you don’t need a whole set. I have 5 total. And when it comes to ceramic lined pans, go cheap because the ceramic is soft and breaks down easily. Within a year, the pan will need replaced. These are the ones that I use: Le Creuset, All-Clad, Green Pan, and Cast Iron from Bobby Flay (because I do love me some Bobby Flay). Truly, any brand of cast iron will last forever and serve you well. Can’t afford new pans right now and can only use your non-stick? Just cook on very low heat. It’s when these pans are exposed to high heat that they release toxic fumes into the air or into your food.

Don’t use plastic or single use food storage containers – Choose glass or stainless steel instead. Glass is my favorite option; it makes it so convenient for reheating leftovers. I also freeze single servings of leftovers in glass. Just never fill it completely full – you must leave a little room for expansion upon freezing. To decrease plastic in the kitchen, I turned to these brands: Pyrex, Ball, Mecete, and Bee’s Wrap.

I know that when trying to improve your health, advice comes from all directions, and it can be overwhelming. Remember, you don’t have to do it all at once. Just start somewhere. Pick one habit to change this month. Replace one pan. Save a pickle jar and pack your lunch in it.

And don’t forget the ripple effect you can have on those around you. After you fall in love with your new water bottle, give one as a gift to someone you care about. Bee’s wrap was one of my most beloved gifts from my sister.

One step at-a-time. Take control of your health. Help the planet. Change the world.