I'm new to this lifestyle, where do I start?
Want to see how many ingredients women typically put on their body on a daily basis?! Check out my post HERE.
Maybe a recent health scare — yours or someone close to you — sparked a wake-up call. Or maybe you’ve simply decided it’s time to take your health seriously. You might have even seen someone else completely change their life just by switching to cleaner products and better food, and thought, maybe that could be me too!
Whatever reason lead you here, I'm so glad you're here! Taking responsibility of your health is step one and you did it!
Now where the heck do you start?!
Making lifestyle changes can feel overwhelming — especially with so many opinions floating around online. Maybe a quick Google search left you more confused than when you started, or you’ve stared at a label wondering what on earth you’re even looking at.
I WAS IN YOUR SHOES.
It can start to feel like everything is toxic — and honestly, it’s enough to make anyone want to pull their hair out. But take a deep breath — it really does get easier. As you learn more, you’ll start to see that the smaller, consistent changes matter just as much (if not more) than the big ones. If I were starting my low-tox journey all over again, I’d begin with the basics: water and food.
1) The first swap I’d focus on is your water. It might feel like a bigger investment, but considering that our bodies are mostly made of water, it’s one of the most important changes you can make. I know water filtration systems can get pricey, so I’ve put together a list of options at different price points to help you find what fits your budget. If you’re able, I recommend testing your water first — that way, you can choose a filter that meets your specific needs. This is the water testing I recommend. But if water testing just isn't in the budget right now, check out EWG Tap Water Database and type in your own zip code. It will give you a general testing for your area. After you check it out, find water filters that filter out the highest contaminants found in your water source. Learn more about Fluoride HERE.
2) The next thing to put focus on: Food. Let’s be honest — our food system is a mess. You don’t have to overhaul your pantry overnight, but it’s worth paying attention to what’s in your food. Start by cutting out the stuff full of additives and chemicals. My simple rule? Stick to real, whole foods as often as you can. Your body knows what to do with those — and real food has the power to heal.
Things to consider when grocery shopping:
- Buy organic when possible (or even check out the Dirty Dozen/Clean Fifteen that gets updated yearly!)
- Choose grass-fed, grass-finished meat when possible
- Choose real, whole foods over processed
- Pasture raised eggs (this ensures the chickens are living a quality life outdoors with a lot of space to roam + organic (if possible) to ensure the chickens have an organic diet
- Raw Dairy > Pasteurized Dairy (if dairy is an option for you).
Raw dairy might sound a little weird at first, but it’s actually what people have been drinking for thousands of years. It’s packed with natural vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that your body can use. Pasteurized dairy, on the other hand, removes the bad bacteria and the good stuff — which leaves it pretty stripped of nutrients. In my opinion, that’s why so many people struggle with dairy today. Sadly, raw dairy is still illegal in most states, so access can be tricky. Check out https://www.realmilk.com/ to learn more!
- Instead of completely removing some of your favorite treats, learn to make them with better ingredients! It's rewarding & tasty!
- If you’ve started working on those basics or you’re ready for the next step, focus on the simple, free things that make a big difference. Get sunshine, move your body, spend time grounding, and regulate your nervous system. Step away from toxic relationships, eat less processed food and sugar, find joy in the everyday moments, spend time in nature, and nurture your relationship with God.
I know it can feel overwhelming — like you have to do all the things and buy all the products — but the truth is, small, simple changes can make a huge difference in the quality of your life.
You’ve got this! This community is full of people on the same path, and it’s such a beautiful space to be part of. Surround yourself with friends who share your values (both in person and online), follow accounts that inspire or expand your view of health, and most importantly — don’t give up on yourself. You can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of your health first allows you to show up fully for your family, your work, and your life — because if you don’t, your body will eventually remind you.
xo,
Destiny
If it's sold in stores, it must be safe post HERE