Almost everything we encounter--from soap to soup cans and computers to clothing--contributes to a chemical load unique to each of us. Scientists studying the phenomenon refer to it as "chemical body burden," and in The Body Toxic, the investigative journalist Nena Baker explores the many factors that have given rise to this condition--from manufacturing breakthroughs to policy decisions to political pressure to the demands of popular culture. While...

This book--the testimony of the authors' experience--exposes the extent to which we are poisoned every day of our lives, from the simple household dust that is polluting our blood to the toxins in our urine that are created by run-of-the-mill shampoos and toothpaste. Ultimately hopeful, the book empowers readers with some simple ideas for protecting themselves and their families, and changing things for the better.

"Your spinach smoothie might be making you sick. But there's good news: You can safely reverse your load of oxalates--the chemical toxins produced by many plants--and discover vibrant health. Oxalates most famously cause kidney stones, but they also promote gut problems, chronic pain, joint pain, inflammation, autoimmune conditions, mineral deficiency, sleep disorders, osteoporosis, fatigue, and brain fog. Modern diets, especially ones that are gluten-free,...