Are you living in a toxic home?

If Tuesday’s discussion on the Teflon flu taught you anything…

I hope it’s that your very own home impacts your health.

Indeed, everything from the groceries you buy to the cookware you use plays a pivotal role.

After all, your home is where you spend the majority of your time. And if you’re living in a toxic environment… your health might suffer.

A small learning curve

Earlier this week, I talked about symptoms of the Teflon flu.

I also provided a few common-sense ways to avoid exposure to those overheated, toxic, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) chemicals.

Of course, many people love the relative lack of clean-up that comes with using non-stick pans—and the ease of cooking.

But do you really want to subject yourself to dangerous chemicals for the sake of convenience? When there ARE safer alternatives?

Sure, there might be a small learning curve when it comes to cooking on (and cleaning) well-seasoned cast iron skillets or high-quality stainless steel pans.

But in my view, it’s absolutely worth it if it means you avoid toxic chemicals.

Let’s take a closer look at those alternatives…

Cold fats are key

Stainless steel is durable, versatile, and beautiful. It’s also super safe to cook with.

Better still, you can make your stainless steel cookware “non-stick” by following a few simple rules:

First, allow your food to reach room temperature before cooking.

Meanwhile, preheat your stainless steel pan on low- to medium-heat for a few minutes. This will allow the surface to gradually warm up prior to cooking.

(Pro tip: Adding a few drops of water to the pan can help you learn about how quickly your stainless steel heats up. If the liquid forms droplets that slide around the pan, the temperature is perfect. If the water forms into tiny beads that start smoking, the pan is too hot. If nothing happens, the pan isn’t warm enough.)

Once your pan has reached its desired temperature, add a healthy cooking oil (like macadamia nut oil, olive oil, or avocado oil) or butter. (Cold fats are key to stopping the stick!) Create a thin layer and then add your food.

After you finish cooking, scrub your stainless steel cookware clean as soon as you can with non-toxic soap and water.

(Cooking on cast iron is similar. For additional tips, including how to properly clean and season your cast iron, simply do a quick internet search.)

Of course, you can also roast your food in the oven, especially during this time of year. (Select glass, stainless steel, or cast iron dishes that are oven-safe.) Or, why not use your outdoor grill?

As you can see, there are plenty of alternatives to toxic, non-stick cookware. So, just say “no” to Teflon, once and for all.

P.S. I explain how you can further freshen up your home and avoid toxic chemicals in the April 2023 issue of my monthly newsletter, Logical Health Alternatives (“Is your HOME ruining your healthy habits?”). Click here to read more!

Source:

“‘Teflon flu’ on the rise.” MDLinx, 08/08/2024. (mdlinx.com/article/teflon-flu-on-the-rise/5UXRgCUqE4845Kry8FUP8P)