Pregnancy at 40 is a wild adventure! Wildly different than a first or second pregnancy. I’m still in shock that I AM pregnant at 40 and have enjoyed far less stress and more focus on the things that DO matter while letting go of the ones that don’t.
While I agree that it's crucial to take extra care of our health when we're pregnant, especially being pregnant at 40, I’m not much of a rule follower myself. So you’re likely to catch me eating and drinking things that traditional medicine says are no-nos while avoiding a lot of the things that are “recommended” during pregnancy.
And although I embrace the use of toxic-free products, I also think that the natural living community can cause women MORE stress when we make choices that might be a little less than perfect.
To me, it’s all about balance and a trade-off. Make the best choices you can that fit with your goals and lifestyle, and let the rest of it GO!
In this article, I dive into:
- The importance of using toxic-free products during pregnancy and the risks associated with most commercially available products
- The benefits of choosing toxic-free products, particularly for women who become pregnant later in life
- Nine of our favorite toxic-free products that support your health during pregnancy and where to find them
The Importance of Using Toxic-Free Products During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, it's particularly important to be mindful of the products that we use on our body and surroundings. The chemicals present in house-cleaning products, beauty and skincare products, and even in our food can be easily absorbed by the body, which can have an impact on the developing fetus. Using products that are safe and non-toxic ensures the well-being of mother and child.
Cleaning products contain harsh chemicals and fragrances that can be especially harmful during pregnancy. These chemicals can lead to respiratory issues, skin irritations, and may even interfere with the normal development of the fetus.
Conventional beauty and skincare products contain chemicals, fragrances, and preservatives that can lead to hormonal imbalances and even birth defects.
Food and drink choices during pregnancy are also crucial. It's also important to consume a balanced diet that is rich in leafy greens, fruits, and other healthy foods that can help support the growth and development of the fetus while avoiding foods that are high in mercury, such as fish, and also alcohol and caffeine. Drinking plenty of water is also crucial for maintaining healthy blood circulation and bowel movements.
And, if you find yourself struggling to eat a healthy diet due to morning sickness or the inability to tolerate the smell of food that accompanies pregnancy, you need healthy, natural ways to supplement your diet that won't make you feel sick.
That's why it's best to switch to natural and non-toxic products that are free from harmful chemicals, fragrances, and artificial ingredients.
Understanding Toxic-Free Products
"Toxic-free" generally refers to products devoid of ingredients that may pose health hazards, such as parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, or dyes. It's particularly important for pregnant women to lean towards these products as the delicate state of gestation may be more susceptible to the potential adverse effects of toxins. These hazards may include allergies, developmental issues in the fetus, hormonal imbalances, or even long-term health risks.
Toxic-free products are usually made from organic and plant-based ingredients that are gentle and safe for people and the environment.
One of the best ways to determine if a product is toxic-free is to look for certifications like the EcoCert, USDA Organic, or Leaping Bunny. These certifications indicate that the product meets certain standards for natural and non-toxic ingredients.
Why Choose Toxic-Free Products?
Choosing toxic-free products can help reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals and promote a healthier lifestyle. Here are just a few of the benefits of choosing toxic-free products:
1. Improved Health: By reducing your exposure to harmful chemicals, you can improve your overall health and well-being. This is especially important during pregnancy when the health of you and your baby are closely linked.
2. Better Environment: Toxic chemicals can also have a negative impact on the environment. When you choose toxic-free products, you are also doing your part to reduce your environmental footprint.
3. Safer for Baby: By choosing toxic-free products, you can reduce your baby's exposure to harmful chemicals. This is especially important during pregnancy when your baby's developing body is especially vulnerable to environmental toxins.
The Value of Toxic-Free Products for Women Pregnant at 40
Pregnancy later in life often comes with its unique set of challenges and concerns. Hormonal changes, skin sensitivity, or the need for enhanced self-care to ensure a healthy pregnancy are but a few. Opting for toxic-free products can alleviate many of these concerns, promoting a safer and healthier environment for both mom and baby.
Toxic-free products are particularly valuable for pregnant women at 40 because they are less likely to contain harmful ingredients that can affect the mother and unborn child. For instance, many conventional products contain phthalates and parabens, which have been linked to issues such as birth defects, hormonal imbalances, and asthma. The risk of exposure to these chemicals is even higher for women who are pregnant at 40, as their bodies may no longer be as resilient as they were in their younger years.
Pregnant women at 40 may also be more susceptible to skin irritation and allergic reactions during pregnancy. These reactions can occur due to a weakened immune system, and exposure to fragrances or other substances in conventional products can exacerbate these complications. Using toxic-free products that are free of irritants can help reduce the risk of these reactions, promoting a more comfortable pregnancy.
Furthermore, toxic-free products often prioritize eco-friendly and sustainable packaging, which can be beneficial for pregnant women at 40. Some studies suggest that exposure to certain chemicals in packaging can have negative effects on fetal development. Therefore, opting for products packaged in eco-friendly materials can help reduce the risk of exposure to these harmful substances.
By prioritizing the use of toxic-free products, women can promote a healthier, more comfortable pregnancy and set their minds at ease about the safety of their unborn child and their environment.
9 Favorite Toxic-Free Products For Expecting Moms
Navigating the stages of pregnancy can be overwhelming, and even more so when it comes to choosing the right products to use during this exciting time. As an expecting mom, it is understandable that you want to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy for you and your baby. One way to achieve this is to choose toxic-free products that are free of harmful chemicals and irritants.
Here’s my list of pregnancy essentials that help me prioritize convenience, reduce toxins, and survive while I attempt to thrive during pregnancy at 40.
1. Raise Them Well Prenatal Multivitamins
A must-have! We created the Raise Them Well prenatal when I was pregnant with Hutch in 2015 because other prenatal vitamins on the market were either full of junk ingredients, over-priced, lacking key ingredients, or included WAY too many ingredients for a prenatal. Our Prenatals are smell-free, easy-to-swallow capsules that contain methylated vitamins, K2, and glutathione. They're not just for before and during pregnancy, our Prenatal Vitamins are great to use while breastfeeding too. I feel confident I am taking the BEST!
The itch is REAL. I started using our Raise Them Well belly balm at about 10 weeks this time. The magnesium and other soothing essential oils in our Belly Balm work SO well to eliminate itching and help that stretching skin relax. It helps prevent stretch marks on breasts, belly, hips, and thighs. You'll love this non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly for smooth, soft, itch-free skin.
3. Crunchi Makeup and Skincare
A pregnant mama wants to look good and keep up with her skincare! I found Crunchi makeup and skincare about 3 years ago, and it’s truly my favorite high-performance, toxic-free cosmetics line out there.
4. Plaine Products Shampoo and Conditioner
I must say pregnancy hair is pretty awesome. It’s so thick and grows incredibly fast. Plaine Shampoo and Conditioner is an all-in-one product that lasts forever, is free of gross ingredients, and is perfect for even thick hair. I’ve been using it for over 2 years, and I haven’t found that it stops working like other natural shampoos.
Extra sweat is common during the first and third trimesters due to increased hormones, blood flow, and metabolism. So having a safe, toxic-free deodorant that is gentle on the skin is such a bonus. I’m always aware of toxins, but especially during pregnancy, we want to be sure that we’re limiting anything that might affect the baby’s toxic load. Each & Every is the only natural deodorant that has worked for me long-term without causing breakouts. Each of the scents is super light, and a fragrance-free option is also available.
6. Truly Free Laundry and Kitchen Cleaning Products
They’re my go-to source for laundry products, plus dishwasher detergent, dish soap, and fruit and veggie wash. Made with organic and natural ingredients, and free from synthetic fragrances and other harmful chemicals, Truly Free is my favorite toxic-free household product brand. Truly Free laundry detergent is great for the whole family, the dish soap is super gentle, and the veggie wash is in a spray bottle which makes things super easy.
7. Raise Them Well Clean It Well All-Purpose Cleaner
I despise harsh cleaning chemicals, especially when I’m pregnant! With Clean It Well, you can clean your entire house with one product that works beautifully and gently on all surfaces. Think toilets, your entire kitchen, grease spots, hardwood floors, and more. Plus, you’ll save $ by getting rid of all those old cleaning products with nasty ingredients and using one safe product that does it all!
A mom-to-be must hydrate! I find that it's easier to drink lots of water when I have a big old cup to drink from instead of smaller water bottles. The Reduce 40-oz water cup is my favorite, as it’s affordable and keeps things cold for hours. I’m also known to drink unsweetened iced tea out of this.
9. Momsanity Mom Fuel, BCAAS, and Crave
Food aversions are common during pregnancy due to a heightened sense of smell. I've had a lot of meat aversions, so getting enough protein in my diet can be a challenge. Enter Mom Fuel. Momsanity’s Mom Fuel is a dairy-free and artificial-ingredient-free protein powder that provides great nutrition and flavor. It can be used in fabulous recipes for protein shakes, smoothies, and baked goods too!
Energy, stamina, and brain fog are other common complaints during pregnancy. So I drink BCAAs, or Branched Chain Amino Acids, to keep me going strong without stimulants, fillers, or nasty ingredients that other energy drinks contain.
Pregnancy cravings are real! Many women experience food cravings, and I crave chocolate! That's why Crave is my nighttime treat. I make “chocolate milk” or “ice cream” nearly every night with this satisfying, cocoa-rich drink mix for a sugar-free and artificial-sweetener-free treat! All I need is some almond milk, my frother, and a scoop of Crave!
Toxic-Free Products For Post-Pregnancy
Maintaining the use of toxic-free products is just as important after delivery. Not only do these products continue to safeguard your health, but they also protect your newborn, who is even more susceptible to the potential dangers of toxic substances. Whether it's skincare, nursing products, or cleaning supplies, keeping your household as toxic-free as possible is easy when you switch to the products we've shared.
Choosing toxic-free products can be a great way to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy for both you and your baby. These nine favorite products are a great place to start when building your pregnancy product arsenal, and they make fabulous gift ideas for expecting moms.
Conclusion
Pregnancy, especially at an older age, is an extraordinary journey that requires extra vigilance toward our well-being. Embracing toxic-free products is one way to ensure the healthiest environment for both you and your little one. As you journey from pregnancy to motherhood, remember: health and safety should always come first.
While every pregnancy journey is unique, connecting with other expectant moms through baby showers or support groups can be a helpful way to share experiences and find community. Remember to prioritize self-care and take time to rest and relax throughout the process.
Overall, pregnancy is a time of growth and transformation, both for the expectant mother and baby. By prioritizing self-care and healthy habits, moms-to-be can navigate this exciting time with confidence and ease.