'Cause Cleanliness is Godliness, Babe


Think you’re safe from catching a nasty cold cause the weather's finally warm?

You may be hanging outdoors in your skimpy duds, but all that patio drink-sipping, playing on park equipment and jet-setting to exotic summer travel destinations (OK, the Midwest to see your family), gives you ample opportunity to come into contact with germs. While washing your hands, getting plenty of rest, taking probiotics and eating a balanced diet are the best ways to beef up your immune system, sometimes a girl’s gotta cheat a bit.

Need a Hand? 

Except for swapping spit, hands are still the primary way humans transmit germs. And that’s where hand sanitizer comes in. But you definitely don’t want to use the conventional crap found at chain drugstores or mall boutiques. Those formulas include toxic chemicals you wouldn’t want on the bumper of your car, let alone on your skin.

Related: What the Hell Do I Buy? Hair Dye

Primary Offender

The number one bad-boy ingredient of most hand sanitizers is triclosan, which is linked to allergies, asthma, birth defects and a weakened immune system. A 2002 study in Sweden found high levels of triclosan in three out of five human breast milk samples. A US study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that triclosan was present in the urine of 75 percent of people over the age of five. Gross.

Guilty By Association

Other scary chemicals include synthetic fragrances, dioxane, parabens, propylene glycol, ethanol, cetyl lactate and propanols. Healthy bitches already know that some of these are carcinogenic. The others can cause eye, skin and nose irritation; endocrine disruption; and toxicity in the immune system, brain and reproductive organs. Plus, they can actually create resistant germs (those scary antibiotic-resistant superbugs). What else? They’re flammable, can stain fabric and surfaces and are shitty for the environment.


Corn, Corn Everywhere

Another reason to dump the Purell? Hand sanitizers are pretty much made with genetically-modified corn. Yep, the alcohol that comprises the majority of the liquid base is made from corn — and 85 percent of the corn grown in the US is genetically modified. Still want that stuff on your body?

Conventional hand sanitizers are also not meant for children. They’re toxic, meaning it’s not safe to put your hands in your mouth after you’ve used them. Try telling that to your two-year-old. So try these natural versions:

1. Clean Well. Alcohol-free and naturally antibacterial. Made with a patented blend of thyme and other essential oils. Kills 99.99 percent of harmful germs on contact. Biodegradable and not tested on animals. Available in spray, foam and wipes. Lavender, Ginger Bergamot, Orange Vanilla and Spearmint Lime. $0.79-8.99 at amazon.com

2. EO Hand Sanitizer. Plant-based and uses organic alcohol to kill germs, along with lavender and aloe vera. Non-irritating. Comes in spray, wipe and gel formulas. Lavender, Peppermint and Sweet Orange scents. $0.60-$3.99 at amazon.com 

3. Hugo Naturals Hand Sanitizer. Spray made of organic alcohol, witch hazel and aloe vera and destroys 99.9 percent of harmful bacteria. Vegan and soy, gluten, paraben and cruelty-free. French Lavender scent. $4.99 for a 2 oz. bottle at hugonaturals.com

4. Dr. Bronner’s Organic Hand Sanitizer Spray. A newer product from the natural product best-sellers, it’s certified organic by the USDA, the same people that certify our food. Free of GMO-alcohol and petro-carbomer thickener. Lavender scent. $3.99  for 2 oz at amazon.com

The Verdict

Pros: Get clean and fresh without the chemicals and their repercussions. Smell is more natural than conventional versions.

Cons: More expensive... but aren't you worth it?

Want to know the deets on what else to buy? Click here to browse through our "What the Hell Do I Buy" category on the website!

Is there a category you want us to cover? Email info@healthybitchdaily.com and we’ll add it to the list.


Liz Farrington, Features Writer
A vegetarian who wishes she could stay vegan, Liz is a media professional and former editor at several fitness and lifestyle publications throughout Southern California. Now principal in Farrington Communications, she does sales, marketing, writing and editing for a range of clients. When she’s not shopping for leather-free handbags or deciding which companies to boycott, the Austin resident enjoys following liberal politics, detoxing at the co-op, scoping farmers’ markets and volunteering for animal rescue.









Related:

What The Hell Do I Buy? Dishwasher Detergents
What The Hell Do I Buy? Facial Exfoliators 
What The Hell Do I Buy? Protein Shakes
What The Hell Do I Buy? Dryer Sheets

Image sources:  SCA Svenska Cellulosa Aktiebolaget

'Cause Scrubbing Pots and Pans Ruins Your Manicure


When it comes to modern-day conveniences that enable humans to be lazy, dishwashers pretty much take the cake.

You can clean up the crap from last night’s dinner party, the glasses from an impromptu rager at your pad or even your sex toys: just toss them in the dishwasher and erase the stains of your sins. You can also wash and disinfect hats, cleaning tools and anything else your little heart desires in that bad boy (just make sure if it’s plastic, it’s dishwasher-safe).

Lip-Smackin' Good

Before you throw your BPA-free protein shake-maker in, however, you might want to make sure you’re not dousing your eating utensils with a fine coating of toxins. Think about it: Pretty much everything you put in the dishwasher comes into contact with your lips, in some way. And things that touch your lips make their way into your body. When you use toxic chemicals in the dishwasher, you’re pretty much ensuring that you’ll ingest them from the residue (however fine) that remains on your dishes.

Related: What the Hell Do I Buy? Dryer Sheets

Water Worries

Nasty crap used in the dishwasher also makes its way into our water supply. Conventional dish detergents contain phosphates, which can cause harmful algae (it suffocates other plants and animals) to bloom in ponds and lakes. They can also contain petroleum-derived ingredients, which are non-renewable, can contaminate air and water, and are slow to break down. 


Got Bleach?

Most dishwasher detergents contain both ammonia and chlorine bleach, a deadly chemical combination that can cause severe respiratory damage when it’s inhaled. That mist that streams from the dishwasher when it’s done? It’s extremely dangerous to breathe. (For more on the dangers of chlorine, read our article on bleach.) Compounds created from chlorine are also stored in the fatty tissues of animals in the wild. So chlorine creates toxins that are dangerous for people and the earth when it’s both created and used. Lame.

Chemical Cocktails

The following harmful chemicals are also present in some conventional detergents: choloro-o-phenylphenol, a toxic metabolic stimulant; diethanolamine, a caustic liver poison; and naphtha, a neurotoxin and a central nervous system depressant. It can cause headaches, confusion, lack of concentration and signs of mental illness. Other chemicals can cause skin irritations, allergies, respiratory problems, nausea, diarrhea, cancer, infertility and birth defects.

Options, Baby

Makes that little machine seem more like a menace and less like a miracle, right? Don’t fret—there’s no need to go wash your dishes in the creek behind your house. Just stick to natural dishwasher detergents that won’t add toxins to your diet.

1. Biokleen Automatic Dish Powder

Phosphate, ammonia and chlorine-free. Uses natural oxygen bleach, grapefruit seed and orange peel extract to remove food, grease and stains. Biodegradable, environmentally-friendly and ozone-safe. No animal testing or ingredients, artificial fragrance, colors or preservatives. $8 for 32 ounces at luckyvitamin.com or health food stores


2. Citra Dish Automatic Dishwasher Detergent

Chlorine and phosphate-free. Contains a non-chlorine oxygen bleach, non-animal derived enzymes, a rinse aid and Valencia orange essential oils for fragrance. Biodegradable and safe for septic systems. Vegan and cruelty-free; PETA-approved. No synthetic perfumes or dyes. $6 at soap.com

3. Method Smarty Dish Dishwasher Tabs

Method is a bit controversial in the natural products realm, but these tablets seem to fine (click here for an ingredient list). They’re super easy to use and free of phosphates and bleach. Uses mineral cleaning salts. Not tested on animals. Free of dyes and perfumes. $5 at Target or other mass retailers

The Verdict

Pros: All of the convenience of a dishwasher without wondering what you’re putting in your body or injecting into our water supply. And they do work when it comes to getting food off.

Cons: Natural versions do tend to leave a white film on some dishes. Might require a little more work to hand-wash a few things per load.

Want to know the deets on what else to buy? Click here to browse through our "What the Hell Do I Buy" category on the website!

Is there a category you want us to cover? Email info@healthybitchdaily.com and we’ll add it to the list.


Liz Farrington, Features Writer
A vegetarian who wishes she could stay vegan, Liz is a media professional and former editor at several fitness and lifestyle publications throughout Southern California. Now principal in Farrington Communications, she does sales, marketing, writing and editing for a range of clients. When she’s not shopping for leather-free handbags or deciding which companies to boycott, the Las Vegas resident enjoys following liberal politics, detoxing at the co-op, scoping farmers’ markets and volunteering for animal rescue.







Related:

What The Hell Do I Buy? Facial Exfoliators
What The Hell Do I Buy? Protein Shakes
What The Hell Do I Buy? Dryer Sheets
What The Hell Do I Buy? Condoms

Image sources: justinbaeder

   
'Cause Dead Skin Weighs You Down, Honey

It’s starting to feel like summer, bitches!

Here in Vegas, it’s already pool season. We’re busting out the bikinis, wedges and stunna shades for another bacchanalian bonanza of beverages, boys and besties. But the one thing we’re not bringing to the party? Dead skin from our winter, pale, pasty faces.

Scrub-a-Dub-Dub

We know you’d never actually sit in the sun without sunscreen to get a glow, so we’re pretty sure you’re familiar with the ins and outs of self-tanner. As in, always prep your skin with an exfoliator to remove dead cells and let your polished, fresh skin shine through. Exfoliation also helps to increase circulation and collagen production, while reducing bacteria, blemishes, dark spots, clogged pores, hyperpigmentation, dry skin and aging. Keeping those dead cells around can cause your skin to look dull and lifeless. So not sexy.

Related: What the Hell Do I Buy? Eye Cream

Hold the Loofa

But you’ve got to watch what you’re using to get that glow. The problem with most products is that their exfoliating granules are way too big and harsh for your delicate lil’ mug. Scrubs made with apricot pits or walnut husks are far too rough for the thin skin on our faces. With sharp edges, these grains can lacerate skin, causing ugly scarring. Some conventional scrubs are even made with tiny plastic grains; these also have hard, sharp edges that cut into your skin instead of gently buffing. They scrape off a layer of living skin, which irritates the crap out of your face and accelerates the aging process. (Note: If the exfoliant in your shower contains bits of strange colors like purple or blue, it’s probably plastic.)

War on Oil

Other conventional scrubs can irritate skin or dry it out so much that your body produces even more oil to compensate —setting you up for a dangerous, addictive cycle of using too much product, yet not getting the results you need. Instead of alleviating it, overuse can aggravate your condition. Over-exfoliating can also cause skin to weaken and contributes to wrinkles, as skin becomes damaged, thinned and rough. Consistently thinning the top layer of skin can also lead to milia (hard white granules under the skin), age spots, rosacea, broken capillaries, perioral dermatitis and allergic eczema.

Options, Baby

To stay on the safe side, exfoliate no more than twice per week, using a natural product that contains particles that soften and dissolve when they’re exposed to water, or a gel. Try some of our favs:

Sprout Exfoliant. All-natural, vegan and sustainable, it contains only Maine sea salt, organic almond flour and organic oats. Hand-made in small batches once a week in Brooklyn, using ethically sourced, whole, high-potency ingredients sourced from small farms. No synthetics or fillers; packaged in glass jars. $28 for 4 oz. at www.sproutskincare.com

Exfoliating Minerals Exfoliating Facial Cleanser. Soap-free and non-gritty, this gel cleanser uses fruit and plant-derived AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) to smooth and balance skin. No parabens, animal testing, petroleums, or artificial colors or fragrances. Can be used on wet or dry skin. $24 for 4 oz. at www.exfoliatingminerals.com

The Verdict

Pros: Healthy, radiant skin without long-term damage.
Cons: The products are hard to find in stores. Both are available at www.abesmarket.com
 
Want to know the deets on what else to buy? Click here to browse through our "What the Hell Do I Buy" category on the website!

Is there a category you want us to cover? Email info@healthybitchdaily.com and we’ll add it to the list.

Liz Farrington, Features Writer
A vegetarian who wishes she could stay vegan, Liz is a media professional and former editor at several fitness and lifestyle publications throughout Southern California. Now principal in Farrington Communications, she does sales, marketing, writing and editing for a range of clients. When she’s not shopping for leather-free handbags or deciding which companies to boycott, the Las Vegas resident enjoys following liberal politics, detoxing at the co-op, scoping farmers’ markets and volunteering for animal rescue.

Related:

What The Hell Do I Buy? Protein Shakes
What The Hell Do I Buy? Dryer Sheets
What The Hell Do I Buy? Condoms
What The Hell Do I Buy? Eye Cream

Image sources: Martina Rathgens

'Cause Sometimes a Gal Needs a Quick Fix

When people think of vegans, they often conjure up images of pale, skinny hippies with foul BO.

But vegan athletes (and vegans who don't smoke pot or sport dreads) are on the rise — and they just might be the hottest eye candy at your local gym. That buff meathead who's guzzling a protein shake and watching you stretch? While he wants to know where you got that fine ass, you just want to know what’s in his drink.

Shake It Up

As any Healthy Bitch knows, a protein shake is one of the best ways to get a quick jolt of energy and quell hunger pains in one swig. They’re easy, convenient and simple — perfect for traveling, running errands, fueling up after working out or grabbing a quick breakfast when you’ve hit the snooze button one too many times (or your new squeeze kept you in bed). Plus, they’ll shut your nosy co-workers up when they ask how you get your protein since you don’t eat meat. Just point to your shake mix.

What's in My Drink

When used correctly, protein shakes can help build and repair muscle tissue, decrease cravings and assist with weight loss.  The problem with most conventional protein shakes, however, is that they’re not made with the best ingredients. Most supermarket, infomercial or pyramid-scheme protein shakes use a base of whey or soy and pile on sugar and synthetic vitamin fillers. Whey (for you vegan newbies) is a dairy product, and soy can be hard on digestion.

Related: Best Vegan Detox Cleanses

Guzzle This

Supermarket soy is usually made from genetically-modified soybeans, and it’s highly processed to extract the soy protein isolate. The processed version can contain preservatives or sweeteners. It’s controversial because some believe it contributes to cancer and hormone disruption, while inhibiting vitamin and mineral absorption. It’s also been linked to thyroid problems. The phytoestrogens (dietary estrogens) found in soy can contribute to hot flashes in menopausal women and affect hormonal balances in men. Many are also processed with hexane, a harsh solvent that is similar to gasoline. Drink up!

Options, Baby

Plus, we know you don’t want all that sugar or those cheap synthetic vitamins. And some protein shakes sold for weight-loss purposes can also fail to supply key nutrients. If you rely solely upon them for fuel, you can deprive yourself of a balanced diet. Too much protein in your diet can cause liver failure, kidney damage or ketosis. To avoid like, screwing up your organs and stuff, stick with one or two shakes a day of these healthy options:

Vega One All-in-One Nutritional Shake. New from the plant-based performance product company Vega, Vega One is completely plant-based and free of soy, dairy and gluten. Each shake contains 50 percent of daily recommended vitamins and minerals and 15 grams of protein. One to two grams of sugar and around 130 calories per serving. Made of pea protein, sacha inchi, hemp seed protein and sprouted whole-grain brown rice protein. Available in Berry, Vanilla Chai, Chocolate and Natural. $69.99 per 30-ounce tub (39 servings) at most health food stores. www.myvega.com

Nutiva Organic Hemp Shake. Made of organic hemp protein, phytonutrients and fiber, it’s free of trans fats, gluten, dairy and lactose. Hemp seed contains 66 percent edestin, a bioactive protein that’s easier to digest than any other plant. Hemp also has branched-chain amino acids. Each serving contains 11-12 grams of raw protein, 36 percent of recommended daily fiber intake and 2 grams of essential fatty acids — at 90 calories and 3 grams of sugar. Flavors include Chocolate, Super Berry and Vanilla. $13 for 16 ounces (15 servings) at health food stores. www.nutiva.com

Biochem Sports 100% Vegan Protein Powder. Made of isolated, highly-digestible pea protein, organic hemp protein and cranberry protein, it’s free of yeast, wheat, soy, gluten, milk, preservatives and artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners. The pea protein is rich in amino acids such as L-Lysine and the energy-supporting branched-chain amino acids L-Arginine and L-Glutamine. About 115-130 calories per serving and 5-6 grams of sugar. $13-14 for 16 ounces (12 servings) at health food stores. www.biochem-fitness.com

The Verdict

Pros: Quick, convenient ways to get your protein on.
Cons: Taste preference is highly individual. Some can be chalky; you’ll need to experiment to find your desired texture.
 
Want to know the deets on what else to buy? Click here to browse through our "What the Hell Do I Buy" category on the website!

Is there a category you want us to cover? Email info@healthybitchdaily.com and we’ll add it to the list.

Liz Farrington, Features Writer
A vegetarian who wishes she could stay vegan, Liz is a media professional and former editor at several fitness and lifestyle publications throughout Southern California. Now principal in Farrington Communications, she does sales, marketing, writing and editing for a range of clients. When she’s not shopping for leather-free handbags or deciding which companies to boycott, the Las Vegas resident enjoys following liberal politics, detoxing at the co-op, scoping farmers’ markets and volunteering for animal rescue.

Related:

What The Hell Do I Buy? Dryer Sheets
What The Hell Do I Buy? Condoms
What The Hell Do I Buy? Eye Cream
What The Hell Do I Buy? Hair Dye

Image sources: The D34n, SweetOnVeg, Connoisseur 4 the Cure

'Cause Static Cling is Shitty


Fresh-smelling laundry is the bomb.

But those chemical-laden dryer sheets you’ve been using? Not so awesome. You’re going to want to vomit when you read this, but conventional dryer sheets are usually coated in beef fat.

Effing gross, right?

Dirty Laundry

Yep, those little sheets contain a disgusting dose of tallow (stearic acid derived from animal fat), aka the dirty little secret ingredient manufacturers are determined to keep you from knowing about.

Beef fat is what they use to keep your clothes soft, but you won’t find it on any ingredients list on a box of dryer sheets. That’s because the conventional cleaning products industry has fought vigorously to keep their formulas government-protected trade secrets, covered by intellectual property laws that let them hide whatever they want. So unless you want your body coated in lard from the residue on your clothes, sheets and towels, just say no to those nasty, greasy supermarket slimers.

Related: What the Hell Do I Buy? Bleach

Do You Smell That?

To mask the smell of the lard and chemicals used to soften clothes, manufacturers smother them with synthetic fragrances, which have their own problems. Not just cloying and headache-inducing, they’re also incredibly toxic and contain chemicals such as chloroform, toluene, phenol, xylene, styrene, trimethylbenzene and benzyl acetate.

Hung Out to Dry

These chemicals are absorbed through both inhalation and absorption through the skin. Exposure to them can cause headaches, skin and eye infections, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, hormone disruption, central nervous system disorders, fatigue, anxiety, respiratory tract irritation, difficulty concentrating, liver damage, asthma and other lung disorders. Oh yeah, and cancer — many of the chemicals are carcinogenic.

Lingering Aromas

Those are some strong-ass chemicals. If you’ve ever washed and dried something several times without using dryer sheets and still smelled their odor (or put clothes away for a season and unpacked them months later to find the same smell), you know what we’re talking about. You can also smell the offensive aromas streaming out of your neighbors’ vents, or wafting off of strangers as you pass by them. The synthetic fragrances are actually designed to permeate clothing and then release slowly throughout the day—prolonging your exposure to the toxins. This residue can also become gummy on your clothes and make colors dull.

Options, Baby

Conventional dryer sheets aren’t even recyclable or compostable, and they’re usually not made of renewable materials. The most earth-friendly option is to simply skip using a dryer sheet (trust us, you really don’t need one) or to use a reusable dryer ball. You can also make your own using a scrap of cloth and some essential oils. Or, pick one of these natural versions. They’re usually made of renewable materials and fragranced with essentials oils. Some are even biodegradable:

Method Squeaky Clean Dryer Cloths. Uses renewable, plant-based softeners that are infused directly into a thin fabric sheet, making clothes soft and static-free, naturally. Scents include French Lavender, Sweet Water, Rice Milk & Mallow and Free & Clear. $5.49 for 40 at methodhome.com.

Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Dryer Sheets. Made of vegetable-derived softening agents and natural essential oils on biodegradable paper sheets. Fragrances include Geranium, Lavender, Basil and Lemon Verbena. $8 for a box of 80 at mrsmeyers.com.

Seventh Generation Natural Fabric Softener Sheets. Compostable and housed in recyclable packaging, these are made of unbleached paper and use plant-derived fabric softeners. Blue Eucalyptus & Lavender or Free & Clear. $5-6 for a box of 65 at Whole Foods or drugstore.com.
 
The Verdict

Pros: They work like a charm and won’t give you a tension headache.
Cons: May not smell as strong as you’re used to and aren’t as reusable as conventional sheets.
 
Want to know the deets on what else to buy? Click here to browse through our "What the Hell Do I Buy" category on the website!

Is there a category you want us to cover? Email info@healthybitchdaily.com and we’ll add it to the list.

Liz Farrington, Features Writer
A vegetarian who wishes she could stay vegan, Liz is a media professional and former editor at several fitness and lifestyle publications throughout Southern California. Now principal in Farrington Communications, she does sales, marketing, writing and editing for a range of clients. When she’s not shopping for leather-free handbags or deciding which companies to boycott, the Las Vegas resident enjoys following liberal politics, detoxing at the co-op, scoping farmers’ markets and volunteering for animal rescue.








Related:

What The Hell Do I Buy? Condoms
What The Hell Do I Buy? Eye Cream
What The Hell Do I Buy? Hair Dye
What The Hell Do I Buy? Cleanse

Image source: Horia Varlan, MorgueFile

'Cause A Healthy Bitch Needs a Non-Toxic Sex Life

Valentine’s Day may be over, but gettin' it on is a year-round holiday, baby.

We already know that a stellar sex life is a non-negotiable part of a healthy lifestyle. Knockin' boots decreases stress, lowers blood pressure, boosts immunity, improves heart health and burns calories. (Note to self: must bone ferociously after a cupcake binge.)


Sex With Benefits

Yep, getting laid can help you slim down, sleep better and even shave years off of your appearance. These benefits happen whether or not you involve someone else in your activities, too, ladies. Your vibrator is your friend.

Hmm...what else? Sex is cheap, it’s pretty low-impact and it even produces heat for those cold winter nights.

Informed Consent

But if you’re going to involve a partner, you’ll need to find a reliable form of protection that will keep you from creating little nightmare versions of yourself (it's the gift you can’t return, folks). And when you’re concerned about how your method impacts the environment or your own health, things become even trickier.

Hormonal methods are typically tested on animals, and they’re full of endocrine disruptors that we pee out into our water supply, where they harm wildlife. Non-hormonal intra-uterine devices (IUDs), periodic abstinence (the so-called “rhythm method”) and sterilization are all the most eco-friendly options, but they're also high in cost and/or commitment.


Convenient Condoms

In all likelihood, at some stage in your life you’ll rely on the cheap, convenient condom. While condoms do create packaging waste, the boxes are usually recyclable; the foil packages are not. Latex ones do break down over time -- but it's a looooong-ass time. Polyurethane condoms are made out of plastic and do not decompose, like, ever, and should be avoided at all costs. Natural/lambskin condoms are actually made out of the intestines of lamb (are you f---ing kidding me?) and probably aren't an option for a vegan.

Most conventional condoms contain casein, a dairy protein, and are coated in chemicals, stabilizers, hardening agents and preservatives. Not sexy.

Options, Baby

Luckily, vegan options do exist. And while the vegan condoms are still made of latex -- which does take time to decompose -- they were only 0.001 percent of the 152 million pounds of trash Americans tossed out in 2010, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.  

Vegan options are also free of the nasty chemicals you definitely don’t need near your -- ahem -- delicate parts. Here are some options for safer glovin’, without the toxins:


Glyde. Made of Fair Trade, natural rubber latex, these are certified ethical, vegan and cruelty-free from the Vegan Society, Ethiquette and PETA. Three sizes for a perfect fit: Slimfit, Ultra and Maxi. Flavors include vanilla, blueberry, wildberry, strawberry and black licorice, and are made with high-quality, food-grade, 100-percent-organic fruit and nut extracts. And they taste great. $15-$16 at GlydeAmerica.com.


Sir Richard’s Condom Company. (Get it?) For every condom bought, the company donates one to a country in need. They’re vegan-friendly (no casein), free of glycerin, spermicide and parabens, and made of 100 percent natural latex, with premium silicone lubricants. Available in ultra thin, classic ribbed (our favorite), pleasure dots, extra large and collection packs. $13 for a pack of 12 at Whole Foods or Sirrichards.com





The Verdict

Pros: Premium condoms that don’t have that nasty chemical smell or taste.
Cons: You might want to find a vegan lubricant to use as well, as these seemed to dry out faster than conventional condoms.

Want to know the deets on what else to buy? Click here to browse through our "What the Hell Do I Buy" category on the website!

Is there a category you want us to cover? Email info@healthybitchdaily.com and we’ll add it to the list.

Liz Farrington, Features Writer
A vegetarian who wishes she could stay vegan, Liz is a media professional and former editor at several fitness and lifestyle publications throughout Southern California. Now principal in Farrington Communications, she does sales, marketing, writing and editing for a range of clients. When she’s not shopping for leather-free handbags or deciding which companies to boycott, the Las Vegas resident enjoys following liberal politics, detoxing at the co-op, scoping farmers’ markets and volunteering for animal rescue.

Image Source: robertelyov

Related Stories:

What The Hell Do I Buy? Cleanse
What The Hell Do I Buy? Bleach
What The Hell Do I Buy? Eye Cream
What The Hell Do I Buy? Hair Dye

'Cause Your Body Needs an Oil Change Every Now and Then


Cleansing is trendy these days.

Who hasn’t seen a co-worker chugging that nasty lemon juice-cayenne pepper-maple syrup crap?

Starving yourself is one option, but we believe in feeding our bodies solid foods, thankyouverymuch. Plus, who has time to juice fast when you've got a client meeting, a sick kid or any other kind of commitment that requires, uh, energy?

Oil Change

Our bodies are able to eliminate most toxins naturally, but sometimes a girl needs a helping hand. You accumulate toxins from the food you eat, the products you put on your skin, the medications you take and even the air you breathe. If this crap gets stuck in your body and starts messing with your shit, water retention, premature aging, cancer and even obesity can ensue. Yep, toxins contribute to the extra junk in your trunk. The body attacks toxins by sequestering and diluting toxins with fat, so as toxin levels rise, so do fat levels.

Cleanse Benefits

Throughout history, humans have turned to cleansing for both physical and spiritual reasons. Today we know that cleanses can have many health benefits: increased energy, improved mood, weight loss, fewer colds and less sinus congestion, clearer skin and reduced menstrual pain. You might even want to try a liver cleanse to ramp up your sex life — a healthy liver is essential for a strong libido. Meow.

Cleanse Risks

So what can’t a cleanse do? For starters, it’s not going to help you lose 10 pounds in a week. And if it does, it’s dangerous and unhealthy. Steer clear of any cleanse that makes wildly outlandish claims, restricts you to liquids only or doesn’t let you have any protein. If you’re not getting protein, your body will consume the protein in your muscles, which can diminish your muscle mass and mess up your metabolism.

What's worse? Many cleanses on the market severely deprive the body of the nutrients it needs to function. Some colon cleanses work by drawing fluid into the colon from surrounding tissues. This can create an imbalance of electrolytes, like sodium, chloride, potassium, magnesium and phosphorous. And that kind of imbalance can put you in danger of dehydration and low blood sugar.

Options, Baby

Always check with a medical professional before beginning a cleanse, as even some herbal cleanses can cause allergic reactions. And be sure to drink plenty of water. All of the cleanses below are designed to be combined with a healthy, organic diet. That means no booze, caffeine or tons of sugar, missy.

Kaeng Raeng. Our favorite cleanse on the market, this all-natural, non-GMO, gluten-free detox program will help remove toxins, bolster your immune system and improve your digestive health. It's one of the highest-quality cleanses available, so you know you're getting the good stuff. $64.99 at kaengraeng.com




Renew Life First Cleanse. Designed for first-time cleansers, it’s made of 29 organic whole herbs, which are gentler than the herbal extracts found in the line’s more advanced cleanses. It's 15 days and consists of two pills in the morning and two pills at night. Vegetarian capsules support normal cleansing and organ detox. I’ve been doing this cleanse for the past seven years and love it. $26.99 at renewlife.com




Garden of Life Raw Cleanse. Vegan and raw, this cleanse works by stopping toxins in the mouth, drawing them from organs and then removing them from the liver through digestion and elimination. One packet mixed with water in the morning, some capsules with breakfast and lunch and another packet mixed with water at night. $29 at luckyvitamin.com


Flor Essence Tea Beginner 30-Day Cleanse. A blend of eight herbs, this tonic originated from a formula used by medicine men from the Ojibwa tribe in Canada for generations. The Native American cure was turned into a healing tonic by a nurse in the 1920s. Today it's available in several forms, including a tea taken twice a day for 30 days. $92 at floressencetea.com



The Verdict

Pros: Safe, convenient cleansing that won’t disrupt your lifestyle or starve you.

Cons: Because these detox programs are extremely gentle, results may not be immediately apparent.
 
Want to know the deets on what else to buy? Click here to browse through our "What the Hell Do I Buy" category!

Is there a category you want us to cover? Email info@healthybitchdaily.com and we’ll add it to the list.


Liz Farrington, Features Editor
A vegetarian who wishes she could stay vegan, Liz is a media professional and former editor at several fitness and lifestyle publications throughout Southern California. Now principal in Farrington Communications, she does sales, marketing, writing and editing for a range of clients. When she’s not shopping for leather-free handbags or deciding which companies to boycott, the Las Vegas resident enjoys following liberal politics, detoxing at the co-op, scoping farmers’ markets and volunteering for animal rescue.

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'Cause Cleaning The Bathroom is Necessary and Fun

If you’re a clean freak, there’s nothing more alluring than a bucket of bleach.

It whitens your whites, sanitizes your sinks and obliterates mold and mildew like friggin’ Optimus Prime.

The shit is amazing.

Crappy Chlorine

But those fluffy white towels and disinfected counters have a downside: one sniff and you might faint. Besides making you light-headed, that heavenly bleach scent is a sign you’re dealing with a serious toxin. Chlorine bleach is a known respiratory irritant that can give off a toxic gas when it’s mixed with other common household products. Fun fact? It was actually the first poison gas to be used as a weapon during World War I.

And you're wiping down your counters with this shit?

What’s in Your Tub?

These days, the biggest problem with chlorine is that its byproducts pollute our water supply and our bodies. Dioxins - a set of chemical chlorine byproducts - are considered the most carcinogenic little dudes known to science. Dirty dioxins accumulate in our fatty tissues and -- unlike other environmental toxins -- our bodies aren’t able to metabolize them. So they stay in our systems and mess shit up. In humans, dioxins have been linked to cancer, diabetes, hormonal imbalances, reproductive disorders, decreased fertility, endometriosis, birth defects and immune system problems. 

Chill, It’s Safe

Dioxins are also hormone disrupters that mimic estrogen. On average, Americans ingest 300 to 600 times the EPA’s “safe dose” of dioxins on a daily basis. The problem is so widespread that experts agree it would be difficult to find a person alive who does not have detectable levels of dioxins in his or her blood.

Scared yet? You should be. This shit is nasty and it’s kind of hard to avoid. Bleach is used to make paper products, including coffee filters, milk cartons, diapers, tampons, paper towels and toilet tissues. All of these products leech chlorine and dioxins into your drinks or onto your skin.

Bleach and Kiddies

If you have tots running around the house, it’s especially important to ditch the bleach. A 1997 study found that one-third of calls to the Poison Control Center about household cleaners were about chlorine bleach – and most of those calls were about poisoning in children under 6 years old.

Safe Solutions

The good news? You don’t have to clean like your mom did. Today, the chemical industry has evolved to produce products that still clean, sanitize and disinfect, without the harmful repercussions to our bodies and the environment:


Biokleen Oxygen Bleach Plus. This is a powder that uses grapefruit seed extract to brighten colors and whites. Fights stains, mildew and corrosion. Great for laundry and especially good at removing pet stains from carpets. Biodegradable and not tested on animals. PETA approved. $6 at biokleen.com or Whole Foods.




Oxo Brite Natural Oxygen Powder. Made by Earth Friendly Products, it uses oxygen to whiten, brighten and deodorize. Biodegradable, not tested on animals. Removes current and old stains on fabric, upholstery and most water-washable surfaces. Great for kid and pet accidents. $5 at Walgreens and other mass retailers.

Ecover Non-Chlorine Bleach Ultra. Contains only hydrogen peroxide and water. Not tested on animals. Good for removing stains, whitening and brightening laundry or for cleaning kitchen sinks, bathroom tile, showers, toilets and tubs. Safe for septic tanks. $5 at luckyvitamin.com or Whole Foods.




The Verdict

Pros: Removes stains and cleans without the harmful side effects of chlorine bleach. No nasty smells. Products are also more concentrated, meaning they’re cheaper and use less packaging -- always a plus for the environment.

Cons: Laundry needs to be soaked longer than with chlorine bleach.

Want to know the deets on what else to buy? Click here to browse through our "What the Hell Do I Buy" category on the website!

Is there a category you want us to cover? Email info@healthybitchdaily.com and we’ll add it to the list.


Liz Farrington, Features Editor
A vegetarian who wishes she could stay vegan, Liz is a media professional and former editor at several fitness and lifestyle publications throughout Southern California. Now principal in Farrington Communications, she does sales, marketing, writing and editing for a range of clients. When she’s not shopping for leather-free handbags or deciding which companies to boycott, the Las Vegas resident enjoys following liberal politics, detoxing at the co-op, scoping farmers’ markets and volunteering for animal rescue.



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Lotion Commotion

'Cause Your Saggy Peepers Deserve The Best Care


With the holidays behind us, you're probably looking a little pooped lately.

Between marathon shopping sessions, all-nighters to wrap presents and more holiday parties than you can remember (been there!), your face may be showing signs of wear and tear. The cold weather and and low humidity on planes can do a number on your circulation and your skin.

Peep This

Facial fat tends to start shrinking around the eyes first, meaning they’re the first place on the face to show stress. And when getting a good night’s sleep or making lifestyle changes isn’t in the cards (hello, newborn baby), most people turn to supercharged eye creams. The trick is to find products that won’t damage your sensitive eye area and screw up your bod in the process.

Unsightly Stuff

Toxins in conventional eye creams can include alcohols, ammonia, DMDM hydantoin, phthalates, parabens and synthetic fragrances, all of which can cause allergic reactions, sensitivity and other scary problems. The most offensive ingredient found in conventional eye creams is hydroquinone, a severely toxic and very powerful skin whitener that is banned in the UK but not the US. It’s carcinogenic (cancer causing) on its own, and because it lightens skin, it reduces melanin, which is skin’s own UV protector.  So if you want your peepers to be able to protect themselves, steer clear of the topical whiteners.

Natural Eye Creams

And really, why would you want to smear toxic chemicals around your beautiful baby blues? Stick with these natural eye creams for products that will work to eliminate puffiness and wrinkles without the side effects.

Weleda Pomegranate Firming Eye Cream. Part of a new line from a company we love, it’s an antioxidant rich and fragrance-free cream that uses organic pomegranate seed oil to firm and protect the eye area. Refreshing and stimulating—kind of like putting a cucumber on your eyes. $33 at weleda.com or Whole Foods.



Mineral Fusion Revitalizing Eye Treatment. Uses the minerals magnesium, copper and zinc to stimulate new skin cell production and provide antioxidant defense against free radicals. Vegan and hypo-allergenic. Very hydrating and soothing. Contains peptides and botanicals to brighten dark circles. $24.99 at drugstore.com




DermaE Anti-Aging Eye Cream. From the family-owned and operated natural product company DermaE, the eye cream uses tamanu (oil from the tropical tamanu tree), pomegranate, CoQ10, green tea and acai to nourish, hydrate, soften and smooth. Vegan and pH-balanced. Great for moisturizing. $13.00 at LuckyVitamin.com.



The Verdict

Pros: Protecting and reversing the signs of aging or too much fun without the nasty ingredients.

Cons: We haven’t noticed any. Since we know you’d never consider Botox (injecting a toxin into your face is gross), natural eye creams are a great way to prevent and repair damage.

Want to know the deets on what else to buy? Click here to browse through our "What the Hell Do I Buy" category!

Is there a category you want us to cover? Email info@healthybitchdaily.com and we’ll add it to the list.

Liz Farrington, Features Editor
A vegetarian who wishes she could stay vegan, Liz is a media professional and former editor at several fitness and lifestyle publications throughout Southern California. Now principal in Farrington Communications, she does sales, marketing, writing and editing for a range of clients. When she’s not shopping for leather-free handbags or deciding which companies to boycott, the Las Vegas resident enjoys following liberal politics, detoxing at the co-op, scoping farmers’ markets and volunteering for animal rescue.

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