Reports of the potential risks of harmful chemicals around us are far too common. Here are three simple ways to try to protect yourself and your family from dangerous toxins in food and water. 

Filter your drinking water 

According to a new study from the USGS or U.S. Geological Survey, nearly half of the tap water across America contains toxic chemicals. 

USGS researchers tested for 32 of the 12,000 types of chemicals known as PFAS or per-and polyfluorinated alkyl substances. They found at least one, if not more, PFAS in U.S. tap water. The chemicals are known as “forever chemicals,” they are linked to a weakened immune system, decreased fertility, high blood pressure in pregnant people, and increased risk of certain cancers. In March, the Environmental Protection Agency or EPA proposed drinking-water standards that will require water utilities to reduce levels of PFAS contamination. But changes like this take time.  

Adding a water filtration system to your home can reduce or completely eliminate the so-called forever chemicals. A reverse osmosis system is an excellent option to reduce harmful toxins, but the system is pricey. More affordable options include faucet or pitcher filters. These reduce chemicals. Make sure that whichever option you choose, you follow the manufacturer’s suggestion about changing filters.

Switch to stainless steel or cast iron cookware

Cooking with a non-stick pan seems quicker and more convenient but can be very harmful. Unfortunately, to produce non-stick, stain-resistant, and waterproof cookware, those same PFAS in water are often used to manufacture them. While some companies claim that they don’t use PFAS, to be certain, we suggest you opt for stainless steel or cast iron cookware. 

Buy organic

Buying organic can be extremely expensive, but you should do it as much as possible. You can choose the fruits and vegetables ranked on the Environmental Working Group, or EWG’s, dirty dozen list. The EWG is a non-profit that researches and exposes harmful agricultural practices. It reports nearly 75 percent of non-organic fresh produce sold in the U.S. contains residues of potentially harmful pesticides. Check out their yearly dirty dozen list — a shopper’s guide to pesticides in produce. Click here for the list.