Trading health and well-being for convenience: this is what we have been doing knowingly or unknowingly, particularly during the last 50 years, in our race towards modernity and efficiency. Modern life is filled with products and habits that, although extremely convenient, may not be the best for our health or our environment. In this post, we’ll explore some of these seemingly harmless choices and the unexpected risks they may entail.
The Unseen Impact of Plastics
The use of plastics has revolutionized many aspects of our daily life. From packaging to products, it offers unparalleled convenience. However, microplastics have become an unintended consequence of this plastic revolution. As larger plastic items degrade, they release these tiny particles into the environment. These microplastics make their way into our water sources, the food we eat, and even the air we breathe, entering our bodies in ways we can’t even perceive. Think about it next time you sip your coffee from a plastic-capped cup.
Processed Foods: A Recipe for Health Concerns?
With busy schedules, many rely on processed foods for a quick meal. Though they might save time, these foods often contain a cocktail of chemicals and preservatives, as well as microplastics since they are very often packaged with plastic. While these ingredients extend shelf life, the long-term impact on our health remains a topic of concern. There’s a growing body of evidence linking excessive consumption of processed foods with various health issues. For example, some processed foods often include high levels of added sugar, sodium and fat. “Although these ingredients make the food we eat taste better, too much of them leads to serious health issues like obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes” (1).
Beauty at What Cost?
The cosmetics and personal care industry has expanded exponentially, offering products that promise beauty and youthfulness. However, many of these products are laden with chemicals and preservatives. While they make us look good on the outside, they might not be so good for us on the inside. Our skin absorbs a significant portion of what we apply, making it crucial to be conscious of the products we use. “Some chemicals are classified as endocrine disrupting, which means they may interfere with the body’s hormones and cause adverse health effects” as reported by The National Institute of Enviromnental Health Sciences (2)
Modern Medicines: A Double-edged Sword
While modern medicine has undoubtedly improved our life expectancy and quality of life, there’s a darker side to it. Most medicines, even those based on plant extracts, are synthesized through chemical processes. Over-reliance on them might lead to side effects and long-term health implications. I highly recommend you watch the Human Longevity Project which unveils so much research and information not only about the toxic effects of medicines, but on so many other apparently healthy convenient modern products that threaten our health
Indoor Pollutants: The Silent Killers
We often think of our homes and offices as safe havens from outdoor pollution. However, the materials used in furniture, carpets, and electronics release pollutants that we continuously inhale. Moreover, the electromagnetic fields from our countless devices might have more of an impact on our health than we realize. Visit the American Lung Association website to know what we are breathing and are exposed to every day.
Balancing Convenience with Conscious Choices
So, what can we do? The answer is not to reject modern conveniences of course, but to be more conscious and deliberate in our choices:
- Reduce Plastic Use: We can choose more sustainable alternatives like glass, or biodegradable materials. Go more often to farmer markets rather than buying plastic-packaged produce.
- Eat Whole Foods: Prioritize fresh, organic produce over processed foods. There are so many studies showing how many illnesses have been reversed only by replacing processed food with fresh, organic products .
- Go Natural with Personal Care: Choose cosmetics with natural ingredients and fewer chemicals. Read and research the ingredients of the products you buy (and this applies also to the packaged food).
- Limit Medication: Use medicines judiciously, and explore holistic health alternatives. Remember that food is medicine too: explore the properties of the food you put in your plate
- Improve Indoor Air Quality: Invest in air purifiers, and opt for natural materials for furniture and decor. Again, read and research what you are buying
- Digital Detox: Take breaks from electronic devices and spend more time in nature. Shinrin-Yoku is a Japanese term that means “forest bathing” or “taking in the forest atmosphere”: “The purpose was twofold: to offer an eco-antidote to tech-boom burnout and to inspire residents to reconnect with and protect the country’s forests.” (3) Whether it is a forest, a beach, or the park near your house, spending time in nature has so many beneficial effects: it reduces production of the stress hormone, lowers blood pressure and heart rate, boosts the immune system.
In conclusion, while modern conveniences have made life more comfortable, they come at a hidden cost. Unfortunately we have no control over the air we breathe, however, by making informed choices, we can limit our exposure to potential toxins and strike a balance between convenience and well-being. The benefits of a cleaner, healthier life undoubtedly outweigh the comforts we might momentarily forego.
Warmly
If you are interested in introducing Slow Living into your life, subscribe to The Bridge Sunday Newsletter for weekly well-being insights.
DISCLOSURE: I may be an affiliate for products that I recommend on my website. If you purchase those items through my links I will earn a commission.
I only endorse products and services that pass my standards of excellence – and that I would recommend to friends, family, and my clients.
