Stay Healthy

Vitamin C is probably the most widely know immune boosting vitamin. Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant and important cofactor in many cellular processes related to protecting the body from harmful microbes and the everyday stress of life. A deficiency in this vitamin is directly related to greater risk of infections and a weakened immune system. In addition, Vitamin C is highly utilized by the adrenal glands and supplementation may help reduce an over active stress response. This further protects the body's immune activity which can be suppressed by flight for fight reactions during periods of high stress. And I don't know about you, but this past year has certainly been a period of high stress.

Because it is a water soluble vitamin, it must be consumed on a daily basis. Fortunately, Vitamin C is found in many fruits and vegetables such as citrus, kiwi, strawberries, tomatoes, bell peppers, brussels sprouts, and broccoli.  As a person with high stress circumstances and living with adrenal fatigue, I supplement twice a day in addition to eating healthy fruits and vegetables.  I will also take a liposomal Vitamin C if I am under a great deal of stress or fighting an infection. We do carry throat lozenges with Vitamin C and silver here.

The second vitamin with major immune importance is Vitamin D.  Vitamin D has important immune boosting functions and a deficiency can make you more susceptible to infections including respiratory infections. Vitamin D helps activate T cells which identify and kill foreign invaders like viruses. Some people require more Vitamin D than others so it may be a good idea to have your levels tested at your next physical and to ask your doctor how much they would recommend that you take. Personally, my body requires 250 mcg (10,000 IU) per day but many people require less.

Vitamin D is found in fatty fish, egg yokes, and beef liver but it is difficult to consume enough to maintain healthy levels. Our bodies can produce sufficient amounts of this vitamin with consistent sun exposure of 15 minutes a day. However, this can be affected by season of year, geographic location, and sunscreen usage so an inexpensive supplement may be the way to go.

Little changes can have big effects down the road.  Wishing you all the best as we journey on through these uncertain times.

Carr, A. C., & Maggini, S. (2017, November 3). Vitamin C and Immune Function. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29099763/

Moore, M. (2019, March 22). How vitamin C supports a healthy immune system. Eatright.org - Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. https://www.eatright.org/food/vitamins-and-supplements/types-of-vitamins-and-nutrients/how-vitamin-c-supports-a-healthy-immune-system

American Chemical Society. "Scientists Say Vitamin C May Alleviate The Body's Response To Stress." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 23 August 1999. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/1999/08/990823072615.htm>.


Livingston, M. (2020, December 31). Vitamin d might help protect you from the coronavirus. Retrieved February 16, 2021, from https://www.cnet.com/health/why-vitamin-d-is-crucial-for-immune-health/

Let's face it, cleaning can be a dreaded chore.  Except for times of great anxiety when I find cleaning good therapy, I would much rather curl up with a good book and a cup of Earl Grey.  This spring, I am finding spring cleaning to be refreshing and renewing...a way of seeing my home differently and a way to simplify and reorganize my space.  Here are a few benefits of spring cleaning that I hope you find spur you to get started with your own projects.

1.  See your home in a new light 

I have been wanting to move for some time now and life circumstances haven't allowed it just yet.  So over the past few weeks, I have been rearranging everything that isn't nailed down and I am really enjoying the freshness and novelty of new (indoor) scenery.  So if you are pushing your furniture aside to vacuum that long neglected carpet, go ahead and try it in a different spot for a change.

2. Save money by not buying what you already have

I have discovered that we have purchased enough bandaids to last five lifetimes.  Why?  Because they were not organized and easy to find.  With a drug store on every corner, it is probably easier to stop in and buy more pain medicine then to look through the drawers and cabinets in your own bathroom.  So get a box and go through your cabinets and store like items together.  You may be surprised at what you already have and don't need to buy for a good, long while.

3. Focus on future blessings and remember to enjoy today 

Stuck in the past?  Don't like change?  Alarmed at how fast your children are growing up?  Cleaning out is a good time to come to terms with the super fast pace of life and the passing of time.  My daughters are growing up and the items they no longer enjoy and are willing to part with are proof of that.  It is really helpful to keep in mind that new and delightful changes to our relationships are in store even as I say goodbye to treasured ways of relating that are now outgrown.  Decluttering with kids is a wakeup call to value each day we have as the years are flying by.

4. Detoxify and declutter

Spring is a great time to get re-inspired to make good on those goals of eating healthier and being more active.  Go paleo or low carb for 30 days to jump start a weight loss program.  Prepare for success by getting rid of processed prepared foods and stocking up on healthy items.  Set a goal of weaning yourself off of one chemically based personal care item a quarter and replacing it with a natural or organic one (we have plenty ;).  Set a good example for the other folks in your home by taking good care of yourself.

Best wishes on your spring cleaning adventures this year!

The New Year is an exciting time to create goals in any area of life. It’s an
opportunity for reflection, gratitude, and the possibility of an even brighter year to
come. While resolutions are not an original concept, completing them appears to
be. A discouraging article from U.S. News stated that 80% of New Year’s
resolutions fail by mid-February (face-palm). This tells us that our hearts are in
the right place, but our follow-through seems to be lacking.
Setting a goal is just the beginning. In tandem with what you want to happen,
there must be a plan of action around how, why, and by when. Here are four
healthy strategies to keep you out of that 80% and into your best year yet!

1. Baby Steps
The New Year can present a newfound energy that often has us jumping into
large goals headfirst. We’re pumped, and our motivation tells us this time’s going
to be different. The problem with this approach is it launches one into ‘Black and
White World.’ You either do it perfectly or you’re a failure – no in-between.
Instead, break a goal into small actionable steps that allow you to build the
muscle necessary to accomplish it long-term. It’s important to remember that any
positive change we’d like to make isn’t just meant for the year the goal is set. The
hope is to be smoke-free, thirty pounds thinner, fluent in Spanish - long after that.
Start small and learn how to handle each day with grace.
Abandon the all or nothing mindset. Going cold turkey might make you
miserable, which could anchor the feeling of misery with quitting your vice. This
wouldn’t necessarily be true if you cut back little by little. And unfortunately when
we fail at something, it’s that much more discouraging to get back in the ring.
Baby. Steps.

2. How Many and By When?
Specificity, specificity, specificity. Create goals that state exactly what your
change should look like. Let’s say you want to give up diet soda…
Poor Goal Example: I’d like to be healthier.
Specific Goal Example: I’d like to quit diet soda.
Then state a timeline, or you could be “wishing” for all of 2018.
“By when” Example:

For the first week I will allow myself to have one soda per day.
The second week I will have one soda every other day.
The 3rd week…
The 4 th week…
I will be soda-free by (INSERT DATE)
Clarity is key.

3. Ditch Some Goals
Doesn’t sound very motivational? Hear me out. Last year I made a resolution to
run a marathon - it sounds cool and I wanted one of those metals. Soon after
making that goal I ran my first 5K and had a realization: a marathon sounds
miserable. Mad respect to the runners out there, but it isn’t for me.
I was at a crossroads… continue torturing myself for something I don’t care
about, or let myself off the hook. After feeling like a failure for a few months, I
decided the goal should be dropped. Sticking with it would have taken space and
energy away from other goals – ones that really mattered to me.
Change is difficult and we only have so much willpower, motivation, and time. I’m
an active person and a marathon wasn’t necessary for my health. I took up Krav
Maga instead and love it. Let’s make goals count with the things in life that
matter. Gear up for challenges you believe in and let the rest be a hobby.
Speaking of believing in goals…

4. Have a Strong ‘Why’
Know why you’re making changes and write them down. Goals won’t be
achieved long-term if we don’t have a strong purpose. Most goals we set will, in
some way, make us uncomfortable. We’re creatures of habit who love staying in
our comfort zone. A strong ‘why’ provides fuel where motivation can’t be found.
Use strong visuals, stories, or letters to yourself as reminders of the core reason
you’re incorporating change. For example: one more cigarette might not seem
like a big deal. But if you see a visual of someone affected by smoking, or read a
letter that reminds you that one more cigarette is how you became addicted -
you’ll likely feel more motivated to stay strong.

Stay hungry for change and you can’t fail. The biggest shifts are often the
hardest but they’re well worth the effort – especially when your health is
concerned. Truly’s Natural Products was built upon a strong ‘why.’ Learn more
about this family business and why it came to be!

Everything is heightened over the holidays...the elation we feel for our loved
ones and quite possibly the frustration of being stuck in the same house with
them. Natural consumers are often shocked to see how many chemicals family
members use on a day-to- day basis. While your health awareness has grown, it’s
not guaranteed that your loved ones have made it a priority.

You’re already getting raised eyebrows at your Stevia packets and coconut oil
but you desperately want to share what you know! If you’re searching for ways to
educate your loved ones on the importance of natural products, here are some
gentle suggestions that won’t move you over to the naughty list.

“We Need to Talk”
Yeah… Never say that. This isn’t an intervention, no one’s in trouble, and you’re
not The Chemical Police. Human psychology tells us that people hate being told
what to do - especially from someone who saw you sprain your ankle by jumping
off the roof with an umbrella. You’re no better than they are and if you come
across high and mighty, your Christmas presents might end up at Goodwill.

Presentation
Energy is contagious. If you’re excited and fascinated about something, others
will be too. If you broach the subject with an attitude of, “I hate talking about this
as much as you do…” They’ll associate natural products with something negative
and necessary, like a kid eating their vegetables. Zero fun. Zero marshmallows in
the cocoa for you.

Pros and Cons
Acknowledge the downsides. Some products are more convenient because they
contain chemicals – they may be more economical or require less effort. Be
transparent about the pros and cons of a product, and then share the reason you
believe going natural is totally worth it. People are much more open to hearing
from someone who has considered all angles.

Don’t Take Away, Add To
We can’t change people, we can only give them tools to inspire change. If your
mother LOVES her fragrance (aka chemical) candles, don’t tell her to throw them
out. Many people will hold onto something they don’t need just because
someone is trying to take it away. Instead, buy her an all-natural essential oil
candle and let her experience the difference. Show is better than tell and by
doing so, she gets to decide what she likes. Don’t be surprised if you hear, “Hey!
This candle is better than the ones I have - wonder why?” That’s when you send
her this blog post.

Hybrid Gifts
Give your family hybrid gifts - things they actually want that are also natural.

Truly’s Organic Lip Balm is a great gift for men and women of all ages. Let
them know that this balm is extra silky because of the organic sunflower
oil, coconut oil, and moisture-retaining beeswax. When people fall in love
with a product they become all ears to learn why their opinion is right.

Also try our mineral tinted lip balm to replace toxic lipstick. When the
recipient raves about its subtle tint and smooth application, you can sneak
in that many lipsticks feel differently because they contain heavy metals –
that are linked to all kinds of harmful effects (more on that here).

Who doesn’t like fancy soap? Truly’s retro-packaged organic bar soaps
will make anyone look forward to a bath. They’ll fall in love with its healing
and soothing herbs, making the chemical alternatives a thing of the past.

Research

Continue to educate yourself on natural products so you’re confident sharing
knowledge with others. This way, when your family and friends finally ask a
question about an ingredient, you’ll have an answer. It’s easy to say, “well, I can’t
remember exactly but I know it’s bad for you.” If you really want to be helpful, go
the extra mile by looking up the answer and learn together!

Ready to learn more now? Here are 5 Ingredients To Be Thankful For along with
5 Spooky Skincare Ingredients.

It’s that time of year again: the leaves are falling, the world becomes pumpkin- spiced, and our skin starts begging for something extra. As you’re knocked over by an overwhelming amount of seasonal beauty gunk, it’s an important time to step back and remember what nature has already provided.

Natural products won’t only keep the chemicals away, they’ll make sure your skin stays extra hydrated – which is why you’ll find many of these ingredients in our products. To prove that Mother Nature has our back, here are 5 ingredients to get Thanksgiving-level grateful for!

1. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is in the spotlight for good reason. Straight from the meat and/or kernel of mature coconuts, this ingredient is edible, inexpensive, and oh so silky smooth. The perfect hydrator for hair or skin, coconut oil penetrates deeply providing top-notch moisture without leaving your skin or hair feeling oily. Its antioxidant properties help the skin keep its youthful appearance and the icing on the cake is that subtle scent of tropical fruit. It’s also a key player in our natural deodorant.

2. Cocoa Butter

Cocoa butter is a vegetable fat extract derived from cocoa beans. Not only is it used to make another item we’re grateful for - CHOCOLATE! - it’s a fabulous addition in anything from food to natural ointments. Cocoa butter contains antioxidants that provide a protective barrier from harsh weather elements - even offering mild sun protection. These antioxidants combined with fatty acids also make it a stellar remedy for soothing inflammation.

3. Aloe Vera

There’s a reason your grandmother had this plant around and why you should absolutely follow in her footsteps. Aloe Vera requires zero work - if you have the plant, you have the goods. Its gel has been said to have anti-inflammatory properties that are perfect for your child’s sunburn. Aloe gel provides a protective barrier that locks in moisture, so the skin stays extra hydrated. Proven to have antimicrobial efficacy, it’s helpful for killing acne- causing bacteria and can gently improve the appearance of acne scars.

4. Beeswax

The product of honest bee labor, beeswax comes straight from a bee’s glands and is used to protect its honeycomb. It’s all natural and packed with vitamin A, which promotes the turnover of skin cells. Beeswax is commonly used as a thickening agent for many creams (like our deodorant) and since it attracts moisture, it provides next-level skin hydration. Much like this substance protects a bee’s home, it also forms a protective barrier on the skin that locks in moisture. But don’t worry, it doesn’t clog pores, making this an A+ ingredient.

5. Castor Oil

Derived from the ricinus communist plant, castor oil is a key ingredient in our lip balm because it’s soft and hydrating but packs a punch. Penetrating deep into the skin, caster oil fights bacteria overgrowth like a villain, making this a great choice for acne prone skin and clogged pores. This ingredient kicks bacteria’s butt while soothing irritated or infected skin – resulting in the perfect blend of sugar and spice this season.

Now that you know what ingredients to stock up on, it’s important to know what ingredients to dismiss. Here are 5 spooky skincare ingredients to avoid at all costs.

Additional Resources: (1) https://draxe.com/cocoa-butter/ https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/oils/properties- of-coconut- oil.html https://draxe.com/castor-oil/ Wikipedia.com

It’s hard enough pronouncing skincare ingredients, let alone understanding what they all mean. But in the Wild Wild West of chemical products it’s worth the effort to learn what we’re putting on our skin, not to mention our children’s.

Today we’ll focus on common beauty ingredients, give you the skinny on what they’re used for, and talk about the hazards that make us cringe. So in the spirit of Halloween, here are five skincare products that are more frightening than Stephen King’s It, and why on earth to avoid them!

Aluminum

Aluminum is commonly found in deodorant and antiperspirant. While deodorant is considered a scent cover up and antiperspirant stops sweat in its tracks – both products can contain this ingredient. The problem? Too many studies are giving aluminum bad press, causing consumers to reach for the natural stuff.

Eyebrows rose as studies discovered aluminum in malignant breast tissue. While the Breast Cancer Foundation claims aluminum has not been linked to cancer, many health professionals warn against it. According to Wikipedia, aluminum deodorant can be harmful to people with kidney disease and the FDA suggests consulting a doctor before use.  That’s right, just for antiperspirant.

Also be on the lookout for aluminum in makeup – it’s often used as a coloring and thickening agent. This ingredient is not only worth mentioning, we wrote a whole blog on the topic.

Parabens

Parabens are another suspicious ingredient that also falls under the alias of methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, or ethylparaben.

It’s likely you come in contact with this low-cost preservative daily. Used to kill bacteria and prevent mold growth, they’re commonly found in skincare products, hair care, toothpastes, deodorants, makeup and even our food. They’re also known to hide in fragrances (more on this in a moment).

If parabens are used to keep us safe, what’s all the hubbub about? Controversial studies have linked parabens to sperm count disruption and were found in breast cancer tissue.

To confuse you further, skin experts agree this ingredient is dangerous if it enters the blood stream, but they claim it can’t penetrate deep enough into the skin’s layers to get there. The good news is, more and more paraben-free products are hitting the shelves so you can make an educated, conscious choice.

Fragrance

That perfume that makes you feel mysterious is a bigger mystery in itself. The word fragrance is not one ingredient - it’s a word that represents a blend of ingredients. Thanks to Title 21, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 701.3(a)) fragrance is considered to be a trade secret so the ingredients aren’t required to be listed. According to the EWG, “The average fragrance product tested contained 14 secret chemicals not listed on the label.”

Unfortunately, we have to make assumptions about what’s in these good smelling bottles, and if we’re willing to take a risk. Fragrance is best replaced with essential oils – for anything you inhale or put on your skin (so… everything). Truly’s offers some deliciously scented essential oil candles, and also uses essential oils in deodorant, soaps, and lip balm . Want more information on the topic? You guessed it. We wrote a blog about that one too. 

Oxybenzone

Most commonly found in sunscreen to absorb UV light, oxybenzone has been a red flag for toxicology experts. According to the EWG, Oxybenzone “has been linked to hormone disruption and has the potential to damage cells that may lead to skin cancer.”

But it doesn’t stop at sunscreen, oxybenzone is also used in nail polish, hair spray, hair dyes, perfumes (told ya so) shampoos and plastics. And in 2014 Benzophenones was named Allergen of the Year. Um… Congratulations?

Resorcinol

Resorcinol is a powerful chemical used for everything from acne peels and hair color to adhesives and tire production. While we put it on our faces, it’s a byproduct of coal manufacturing.

This product is restricted in Japan, the EU has set limitations with warning labels, and the US regulates exposure in certain manufacturing environments (non beauty related) yet we’re still putting it in our hair and on our skin. No surprise that the EWG has ranked this puppy a high chemical hazard.

These ingredients can be heated topics and controversial among experts, so there’s no doubt the rest of us are left feeling unsure of what to buy. So because there’s no black and white and we’re left with an overwhelming amount of grey, it’s up to us to stay on top of the most recent developments and become aware of the risks involved. That’ll make things a lot less scary this Halloween.

Additional Sources:

http://www.onegreenplanet.org/lifestyle/how-to-avoid-parabens-and-phthalates-in-personal-care-products/

http://ourlittleplace.com/health-risks-of-perfume/fda-regulation-of-fragrances

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16045991

http://www.safecosmetics.org/get-the-facts/chemicals-of-concern/resorcinol/

Deodorant Differences - The American Bubble

For many Americans, it seems unthinkable to live in a world without deodorant. 
Surprisingly, deodorant has been around for a relatively short time. In 1888, Edna
Murphey invented the first known deodorant in Pennsylvania. While advertised to
eliminate odor, deodorant was used to cover up the smell of bacteria. Antiperspirant
- a sweat stopper – was also created in the U.S. and hit shelves in 1941. From there it
spread like wildfire throughout America, quickly becoming the social norm.

Brazil is Gaining

While most cultures generally bathe and strive to smell pleasant, not everyone looks
to deodorant as the number one answer. As of 2015, Americans were the biggest
deodorant consumer at three billion in sales, with a steady incline. But Emmanuelle
Moeglin, Global Fragrance and Colour Cosmetics Analyst at Mintel, predicts a
change. In an interview with Cosmetics Business he suggested that Brazil – the
number two consumer in 2015 - will catch up to America. Their hot climate and
habits of reapplying deodorant throughout the day are giving the U.S. a run for our
money.

Stereotypes and the Middle East

Eastern cultures experience heavy stereotypes about their daily hygiene and use of
deodorant. In this globally connected world, people in every country use deodorant.
Some citizens choose to pass on the stick, but deodorant is not a foreign concept. For
every comment online that says, “Why would I cover up my natural scent? I don’t
wear deodorant.” There are five comments from their neighbors stating that their
entire family wears deodorant daily.

India’s Growth

Nivea took a comedic approach with their marketing campaign in India last year.
Targeting young men, their commercial made fun of competing deodorants that
don’t work and suggested “we can tell” when you’re just covering up the
smell.

Sunil Gadgil, Marketing Director for Nivea India, had this to say in an interview
with Best Media Info:

“The Indian consumers’ attitude towards body odour is ‘not my problem’. The
aim of this campaign is to create relevance of body odour for consumers
without triggering their defence mechanism of ‘Not for me’…”

Meanwhile, Euromonitor International suggests that deodorant sales in India
have nearly tripled between 2011 and 2016. Younger generations are
switching over to deodorant as opposed to the more expensive perfumes and
oils that have been used for centuries.

The Magic Gene

In this age of information and awareness, people are not only asking, “is my
deodorant safe?”, they’re asking if they need it.

A fascinating study by the University of Bristol revealed a rare gene called ABCC11.
Found in a lucky 2% of the world’s population, this gene prevents underarms from
producing an offensive smell. For those who hate wearing deodorant, it’s like
winning the lottery.

This gene is commonly found with East Asians (80–95%) but is extremely
uncommon everywhere else, with (0-3%) found in White Americans. Enjoy
Wikipedia’s chart that shows where you fall in this odd gene pool.
Unless you’re one of the lucky few, deodorant is a good friend, if not a soul mate.
Keep things under control with Truly’s Natural Deodorant (a natural deodorant that
works!) and feel good about what you’re putting on your body, wherever in the
world you are.

Additional Resources:
http://theweek.com/articles/614722/brief-history- body-odor

Ever felt like an old SURE deodorant commercial, stealing a sniff of your underarm?
 Going au naturale isn’t as simple as it sounds. Deodorant choices can feel like an
either-or situation.

EITHER use natural deodorant and have no friends because you smell.
OR stay fresh with a chemical, aluminum-packed deodorant that might cause cancer.

It’s frustrating. We use deodorant/antiperspirant daily and need something that
works, why are these crazy hippies trying to take away the good stuff?
Unfortunately, there’s more to it than that. Let’s have a real conversation about
aluminum deodorant. P.S. If you’re reading this, you are officially an adult.

Will natural deodorant make me stink?

Maybe.

The natural deodorant business is booming (finally!) but most brands just don’t
work. They can be sticky, messy, and a poor attempt at mixing essential oils to mask
odor - and we all know how that turns out…

Truly’s Natural Deodorant is not a Band-Aid, it prevents the cut. The sugar in our
deodorant combines with your perspiration to create a hyper osmotic solution.
English translation: it creates an environment that prevents odor causing bacterial growth. That mixed with nature’s odor fighter, baking soda, karate chops your bacteria and offers a soothing coconut oil finish (details here).

Is aluminum bad for me?

Yes. There’s no proof that it causes cancer but there’s a lot of eyebrow-raising
studies. It’s also alarming to see on Wikipedia that the Food and Drug
Administration classifies antiperspirants as an over-the- counter drug in the U.S.

Wikipedia also had this to say:

“The FDA has "acknowledge[d] that small amounts of aluminum can be absorbed
from the gastrointestinal tract and through the skin.&quot;, leading to a warning &quot;that
people with kidney disease may not be aware that the daily use of antiperspirant
drug products containing aluminum may put them at a higher risk because of
exposure to aluminum in the product."; The agency warns people with kidney
dysfunction to consult a doctor before using antiperspirants containing aluminum.”

The American Cancer Society’s website still claims, “No clear link has been made
between antiperspirants containing aluminum and breast cancer.”

HOWEVER…

“This metal can cause ‘gene instability’ in breast tissue.”
TIME Health

“Researchers determined that the mean level of aluminum in nipple aspirate fluid was
significantly higher in breast cancer-affected women compared to healthy women,
which may suggest a role for raised levels of aluminum as a biomarker for
identification of women at higher risk of developing breast cancer.”
Dr. Mercola

“Scientists from the University of Geneva tested aluminum salts - an ingredient in
antiperspirants previously linked with cancer - on mice. They found that prolonged
exposure to the substance increased tumour growth in mouse breast tissue, which
could then cause cancer to spread to other parts of the body.” 
Huff Post

If aluminum were potentially dangerous, wouldn’t companies take it out?

[Cue laugh track] Honey child, this is a 70 billion dollar industry with a steady
incline. Change will only happen when buyers demand it. Remember the whole GMO
thing? It’s naive to believe companies didn’t consider their food was genetically
modified. And what did most businesses do about it? Nothing. The public not only
had to ask for safer food, they put their money where their mouth was and spent
their dollar on safer products. Now check out all the Non-GMO foods available.

To wrap things up

We must continue to think for ourselves, the cigarette industry proved that decades
ago. Research and make choices from an educated place – we can’t rely on someone
else to do it for us. And you thought this was just about deodorant…

Now that you’re in the know on aluminum deodorant, learn about the ingredients in
your deodorant’s ingredient: fragrance. You Don’t Want Artificial Friends, Why Use
Artificial Fragrances?

“Hey you! The one standing in the sunscreen aisle. We couldn’t help but notice 
you’ve been there for a while. Need some help?”

You've eliminated toxins from your deodorant, now let's rap about sunscreen.

Buying sun protection certainly isn’t what it used to be. There are a slew of studies
on the risks of chemical sunscreen and while information is empowering, it can also
become overwhelming.

Before you throw your hands up and decide to never leave the house again, here are
answers to common questions about natural vs. chemical sunscreen - so you can
move out of the pharmacy and onto the beach where it’s a lot more fun!

Do natural and chemical sunscreens work the same way?

Not at all. Chemical sunscreen contains a variety of chemical filters that are
absorbed by the skin. While convenient and less sticky than many natural
sunscreens, our skin transfers those chemicals into the blood stream. Studies have
linked chemical sunscreen absorption with hormonal and estrogen imbalance.
Here’s what The Breast Cancer Organization had to say:

“Many of these chemicals are considered hormone disruptors. Hormone disruptors
can affect how estrogen and other hormones act in the body, by blocking them or
mimicking them, which throws off the body's hormonal balance.” Full Article

Natural sunscreen sits on top of the skin, unabsorbed, creating a shield.
Ingredients are simply zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide - many are a combination
of the two.

Will natural sunscreen make me look white?

Yes- ish. Although it’s easily avoidable. Zinc oxide is a sun protection hero but can
cause you to look like a Game of Thrones “White Walker.” So if that's a concern, find a
natural sunscreen with a low percentage of zinc.

Is sunscreen spray more harmful?

Yes. Not only do spray sunscreens have more chemicals, it’s hard not to inhale that
mist - whether you’re spraying it or not. If you can smell it - however faint - particles
are most certainly entering your body. Consumer Reports advises to not use spray
sunscreen on children. It’s terrible for allergies and can harm their underdeveloped
lungs. Ever heard of second hand sunscreen?

Spray sunscreens are also incredibly flammable. You never know when you could be
exposed to a flame at a BBQ or from a cigarette. The risk is simply not worth it, no
matter what your age.

Hopefully this gives you a better grasp of why going natural is a smart move. Some
information out there is fact, some is speculation, and some just feels like common
sense. After considering the potential risks involved, many are deciding it’s simply
not worth it. Gamble in Vegas, not with your health.

If you enjoyed this blog, you might also dig You Don’t Want Artificial Friends, Why Use Artificial Fragrances? and At What Age Do Children Start Needing
Deodorant?

Additional Sources
https://www.consumerreports.org/sunscreens/shining-a- light-on- natural-
sunscreen/

Life imitating art imitating life. That best describes the current state of the fragrance 
scene. Want something to smell like lavender? Let’s use 50-200 chemicals and
create a lavender-like scent! Meanwhile lavender sits in a corner, mouth agape. As
bad as drinking orange soda to get your fruit intake, artificial fragrances mean well
but can have harmful effects. They’re in all the places you suspect and many places
you don’t.

Where They Loom

Perfumes, cleaners, candles, skincare products, soaps, deodorants, laundry
detergent, the list goes on. There are enough chemicals lurking in the air to irritate
even the slightest of allergies. The word “fragrance” sounds sophisticated but it’s
really a fancy word for chemical. To quote Maria Rodale’s blog for HUFFPOST:
“Environmental Working Group (EWG) researchers found more than 75 percent of
products listing the ingredient “fragrance” contained phthalates (THAL-ates) which
have been shown to disrupt hormone activity, reduce sperm counts, and cause
reproductive malformation, and have been linked to liver and breast cancer,
diabetes, and obesity. Additionally, studies by Dr. Philip J. Landrigan of the Mount
Sinai Children’s Environmental Health Center, link fetal exposure with autism,
ADHD, and neurological disorders.”
So… Yeah.

The Good News

There are natural alternatives at your fingertips. Because consumers have become
more educated on the subject, many companies have followed suit by offering
chemical-free products. It’s not only important to purchase natural products for the
safety of you and your family, but to support this movement by showing the world
that we’re reading labels and require safe and affordable products.
Interesting Tidbit: “30.5% reported scented products worn by others are irritating.”
(Sandi Gauvin at Alive.com) So many businesses have gone scent-free. In 2000
Halifax, Nova Scotia jumped in headfirst and declared their CITY fragrance-free.

The Essentials

Essential Oils are all the rage but this isn’t a fad. Called essential for good reason,
these oils are not only 100% natural (caveat below) they have healing properties, a
heavenly scent, and are affordable.

What’s an essential oil? Simply put, it’s oil extracted from a plant. There are
numerous faux oils out there so be privy to words like “fragrance.” And if it doesn’t
specify that it’s an essential oil, that cute little bottle won’t make it natural. Knock-
offs contain essential oils mixed with chemicals, defeating the whole purpose.
Essential oils can be used 3 basic ways:
1. Inhalation - inhaling them directly, with a diffuser, or vapor.
2. Topically - placing them on the skin. *Research the individual oil. Some aren’t
meant for sensitive skin and most should be diluted.
3. Internal consumption - ingesting the oil. Warning: Some are dangerous taken
this way. You’ll want to speak with a doctor about this one.

Chemical Cleanse – How To Get Started

It might be time for a little chemical cleaning. Look at what’s in your home. Read
labels, research ingredients, then visit the EWG website and brace yourself. A lot of
products with strong reputations flunked the environmental test.
After you’ve tossed the bad stuff, enjoy hunting for responsible and effective
products that are safe for you and your family. For example, replace “fragrance
candles” with our Coconut Wax Essential Oil Candles. They contain essential oils
that support anything from relaxation to energy. And because essential oils are
naturally potent, you don’t even need to light the wick to enjoy its alluring scent.
Have a natural deodorant with “fragrance?” Sorry. It’s not natural. Try our
aluminum-free deodorant at Truly’s Natural Deodorant made with only organic
coconut oil, organic powdered sugar, baking soda, and beeswax. Enjoy it unscented
or in our Creamsicle scent using essential oils that will whisk you into summer.
Seeking a safe deodorant for your kids? Read our blog on Deodorant for Kids and
see how we’re making mommies happy everywhere!

Additional Sources
https://www.youngliving.com/blog/how-to- use-essential- oils/
https://crunchybetty.com/best-essential- oils/

A couple of weeks ago, we talked about the health benefits of coconut oil, one of only four ingredients in Truly’s Natural Deodorant.

Two of the key components of coconut oil are lauric acid and caprylic acid. Lauric acid actually comprises about fifty percent of coconut oil. Lauric acid is uniquely beneficial as it contains the highest concentration of MCFA fatty acids. This acid is one of the healthiest saturated fats because the body is able to easily absorb it. The body then converts the fatty acid into monolaurin, which is used to prevent and treat colds, the flu, swine flu, herpes, shingles, chronic fatigue syndrome, and to boost the immune system.1

Monolaurin functions as an antivirus that targets enveloped viruses (viruses encased in a protective layer of lipids and phospholipids). It kills the virus by dissolving the protective lipids surrounding it. One study showed that monolaurin markedly reduced the viral count on patients with HIV, herpes, measles, and vesicular stomatitis, among other viruses.2

Coconut oil also helps to protect the body from microbes like fungus, bacteria, yeast, and protozoans. One 2007 study found that concentrated coconut oil effectively treated drug resistant fungal infections.3 Another study found that the monolaurin from from coconut oil was also the most potent monoglyceride defense against pylori bacteria.4

As if all this weren’t enough, a 2008 study showed that a diet high in medium-chain fatty acids like coconut oil significantly reduced the growth of cancer tumors in mice.5 It also aids in the absorption of nutrients for sick children and adults, helping them maintain a healthy weight.6 Luckily, there’s also no need to worry about coconut oil adding to your waistline. The protein in coconut oil is a source of all natural, direct energy and actually a possible deterrent to weight gain.7

Truly’s Natural Deodorant is loaded with coconut oil to keep your skin smooth and your immune system strong. Our natural deodorant works to keep to keep you and your kids healthy, strong, and smelling great.

1 "Monolaurin." WebMD. WebMD. Web. 9 June 2015.

2 Dayrit, Dr. Conrado S. "COCONUT OIL IN HEALTH AND DISEASE: ITS AND MONOLAURIN’S POTENTIAL AS CURE FOR HIV/AIDS." 25 July 2000. Web. 9 June 2015. <http://coconutresearchcenter.org/article10526.pdf>.

3 "In Vitro Antimicrobial Properties of Coconut Oil on Candida Species in Ibadan, Nigeria." National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, 10 June 2007. Web. 9 June 2015.

4 "Antibacterial Actions of Fatty Acids and Monoglycerides against Helicobacter Pylori." National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, 15 May 2003. Web. 9 June 2015.

5 "Growth of Human Gastric Cancer Cells in Nude Mice Is Delayed by a Ketogenic Diet Supplemented with Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Medium-chain Triglycerides." National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, 30 Apr. 2008. Web. 9 June 2015.

6 Gracey, Michael, Valerie Burke, and Charlotte Anderson. "Medium Chain Triglycerides in Paediatric Practice." Archives of Disease in Childhood. U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1970. Web. 9 June 2015.

7 "Lauric Acid's Benefits for the Body." LIVESTRONG.COM. LIVESTRONG.COM, 11 May 2015. Web. 9 June 2015.