Whole Home and Body Health

I had a great conversation recently with Dr. Jane, host of the Natural Fertility Podcast. Our interview is now live! We discuss the potential hazards of poor indoor air quality, mold and EMF. Check it out here:

The Hidden Dangers of Mold & Environmental Toxins with Cathy Cooke - Episode 110 🎤 AVAILABLE AS AUDIO: https://drjanelevesque.com/listenIn this episode, Dr. Jane Levesque, a naturopathic doctor and natural fertility expert, interviews Ca...

🕯Love that 'Ocean Breeze' or 'Christmas Morning' scent from your decorative candle? 🕯

While scented candles can create a lovely ambiance, they can also lead to exposure to harmful chemicals, and poor indoor air quality.

Yes I know, I'm a 'Debbie Downer' but the truth must be told!

Scented candles release a cocktail of chemicals, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs), and particulate matter - all of which can be harmful to our health.

Inhaling VOCs, including the ones released from candles is linked to irritation in the eyes, nose, and throat; shortness of breath, headaches, and nausea, and many VOCs are known carcinogens.

Scented candles are also typically made with synthetic fragrances, which can contain galaxolide, a commonly used synthetic musk, along with phthalates; both are hormone-disrupting chemicals. Even small amounts of these chemicals, especially phthalates are linked to health issues.

These chemicals can be released even when a candle isn’t lit!

And, when you do light a candle, it can release particulate matter - tiny particles that can be inhaled and which are harmful to our lungs.

Once released, these chemicals settle into our household dust where they can remain for a long time. Research has detected phthalates and galaxolide in 100% of tested samples of house dust!

Unscented candles are definitely better, but keep in mind that even unscented ones can release those harmful particulates. Your best bet is to use unscented candles sparingly and with good ventilation - ie, crack a window or have an air filter running.

Remember, a clean house has no smell. I know, I know, it seems impossible. But a well ventilated house with adequate exhaust and makeup air, along with cleaning habits and avoidance of artificially scented products truly does result in a 'smell-free' home ;)

Are you a candle, or no-candle household? Let me know in the comments!

References:
PMID: 25588193
PMID: 37794758
PMID: 27623734

Raise your hand if you hate dusting! 🙋‍♀️

Most people think house dust is just unsightly, or that it’s made up of dead skin cells (yuck), pet dander, and dirt.

Well it’s both of those things, but that’s not all. Turns out that house dust is also a receptacle for chemicals in the home.

Many harmful chemicals are released from the materials they are used in - whether it’s flame retardants in your couch, PFAS chemicals from your carpet, or phthalates found in scented products - and they settle in the dust in your home.


Let’s look at house dust through the lens of one of these: phthalates.

Phthalates are a class of chemicals that are used in the majority of fragrance formulations… think: laundry detergent, dryer sheets, air fresheners, room sprays, scented candles, personal care products, household cleaners, etc. (They are also found in other items as well, like some types of soft plastics.)

When you do laundry, clean, light a candle, etc, the phthalates in those fragrances don’t just vanish into thin air. They settle on surfaces and end up in house dust.

In fact, in a meta-analysis of dust studies across the US, phthalates were measured in 100% of samples!

This is a concern because phthalates are well-established endocrine-disrupting compounds that are linked to health issues like:

👉Type II diabetes and insulin resistance⁠
👉 Overweight/obesity⁠
👉 Breast cancer
👉 Asthma⁠
👉 Reproductive issues in men and women⁠
👉 Altered male reproductive development⁠

What can we do about this?

1️⃣ Start phasing out the use of all fragranced items in the home. I know, I know, who doesn’t love a good-smelling candle or that fresh laundry scent? But opting for fragrance-free or naturally scented products can really cut down on those phthalate levels.

2️⃣ Wet dust & vacuum often. Wet dusting is simply using a damp cloth to dust (wash & reuse!) instead of something like a feather duster. And vacuuming can help cut down on dust in the home.

Shocking study on sun avoidance vs. smoking!

Swedish researchers followed 29,518 women for 20 years to assess the impact of sun exposure habits on mortality risk and life expectancy.

The findings?

Women who avoided sun exposure had:
✖️ Higher risk of cardiovascular disease death
✖️ Higher risk of non-cancer, non-CVD death
✖️ LOWER life expectancy of 0.6-2.1 years compared to highest sun exposure group

Staggeringly, non-smoking sun avoiders had a life expectancy SIMILAR to smokers with the highest sun exposure!

This suggests avoiding sun exposure can be as detrimental to lifespan as the deadly habit of smoking ci******es. 😱

While excessive sun raises skin cancer risk, the study indicates some sunlight may actually be protective against other major causes of death.

The takeaway? Don't shun the sun completely. Aim for moderate, smart sun exposure while limiting excessive radiation. A balanced approach is key.

Slather on a good clean ingredient sunscreen for extended outdoor times, but don't live like a vampire! Your longevity may depend on those sunny rays.

Watch out for leaky gut from your dishwasher detergent!

A study found that alcohol ethoxylates, a chemical found in dishwasher detergents and rinse aids, can damage gut cells and increase intestinal permeability (aka leaky gut).

The Research 🔬

-Tests were done on gut cell cultures, mimicking residues left on dishes
-High doses killed gut cells, while lower doses made the gut "leaky"
-The rinse aid, which isn't rinsed off dishes, was pointed out as the main culprit

Why Leaky Gut is Bad

-It triggers inflammation and an immune response
-Linked to allergies, IBS, arthritis, obesity and more
-May even impact mental health by disrupting the gut-brain connection

While this was a lab study, alcohol ethoxylates are also in home dishwashing products we use daily. The potential for harm exists!

Be proactive about your gut health. Consider switching to non-toxic, plant-based dishwashing alternatives to avoid nasty chemicals lingering on your dishes.

A little awareness can go a long way in protecting your gut and overall wellbeing! Don't let cleaning products wreck your health.

Here is a link https://vist.ly/yxhb to a better detergent!

It's time to ditch those scratched non-stick pans! They could be slowly poisoning your food.

As non-stick coatings like Teflon start to peel and scratch, they release toxic particles and chemicals that can mix right into your meals, including:

-Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) - A synthetic carcinogen linked to thyroid disease, fertility issues, and developmental problems

-Heavy metals like lead - Known to cause brain damage, reproductive harm, and other health issues

-Plastic particles - Can lead to inflammation, hormone disruption and increased cancer risk

The more scratched and degraded the pan, the higher the leaching of these harmful compounds into whatever you're cooking.

So don't risk consuming these toxins! Toss any non-stick pans with scratched, peeling or flaking surfaces.

Instead, opt for safer, uncoated non-toxic cookware options like:

🍳 Cast iron skillets
🍽 Stainless steel pots/pans
🥣 100% ceramic bakeware

Your health is worth avoiding dodgy Teflon flakes and heavy metal contamination in your food! Go non-toxic in the kitchen.

STOP microwaving those plastic containers! It's a recipe for ingesting harmful chemicals and toxins.

When plastics are heated in the microwave, they can leach concerning compounds into your food and beverages, including:

🤢 Bisphenol A (BPA) - An endocrine disruptor linked to infertility, obesity, and cancer
💉 Phthalates - Causes reproductive issues, thyroid irregularities, and altered childhood development
☣️ Dioxins - Highly toxic and can lead to impairment of the immune system

Even BPA-free plastics may contain other risky chemicals that are released when heated.

Not only is microwaving plastic dangerous, but the microwave itself can cause plastics to break down faster, making the leaching even worse over time.

So ditch the plastic and opt for microwave-safe alternatives like:

🍽 Glass containers
🍚 Ceramic bowls
🍲 Stainless steel containers

Your health is worth avoiding those toxic chemicals seeping into your meal! Make the easy swap to protect yourself and your family.

📣 Stay tuned for the announcement of our new course all about toxins in your home!

Don't ignore those window sills! Mold loves to hide and thrive in those nooks and crannies.

Why does mold grow on window sills? The combination of moisture from condensation and lack of airflow creates the perfect damp environment for mold to flourish.

Do a regular mold check by inspecting all window sills, paying close attention to corners. Look for discoloration, musty smells, and fuzzy growth.

To prevent future growth:
➡️ Fix any leaks causing excess moisture
➡️ Use a dehumidifier
➡️ Clean sills regularly with vinegar solution
➡️ Keep windows open when possible for air circulation

Don't let mold take hold in your home. A little diligence goes a long way for maintaining a healthy, mold-free environment!

Check the link in bio for our course titled "Mold Remediation Done Right" to learn how to properly remediate mold, stop getting scammed by fly-by-night remediators, and what to do with your stuff.

Pet owners, those household cleaners under your sinks could be putting your fur babies at risk!

Many popular cleaning products contain toxic chemicals that are seriously harmful if ingested or inhaled by our pets.

🧹 Some of the biggest offenders include:

☠️ Ammonia in window and bathroom cleaners
☠️ Chlorine in toilet and kitchen cleaners
☠️ Glycol ethers in degreasers and floor cleaners
☠️ Formaldehyde in various cleaners

These chemicals can cause serious issues like:

▪️ Respiratory problems
▪️ Skin irritation and burns
▪️ Vomiting and diarrhea
▪️ Liver and kidney damage
▪️ Cancer and other illnesses

Pets are especially vulnerable due to their size, grooming habits, and tendency to lie on floors where cleaners accumulate. Even fumes can be toxic.

But you can easily make your home pet-safe by switching to non-toxic, plant-based cleaning alternatives like:

✨ Vinegar
✨ Baking soda
✨ Castile soap
✨ Essential oils

Ditch those dangerous chemicals for the sake of your fur family members! A few simple swaps can create a much healthier environment for all.

📣 Stay tuned for the announcement of our new course all about toxins in your home!

That moisturizer you use every day? It could be messing with your hormones! Many skincare products contain parabens - risky preservatives you can and should avoid.

Parabens are synthetic compounds used to prevent bacterial growth and extend shelf life. The most common ones are methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben.

The problem? Parabens can mimic estrogen in the body, acting as endocrine disruptors that interfere with your hormonal system. This has been linked to issues like:

🤰 Reproductive problems and infertility
🧠 Developmental issues in children
🧬 Higher risk of breast cancer and other hormone-related cancers

Studies have detected parabens in breast tissue samples - not something you want from skincare.

Using multiple paraben-containing products increases your overall exposure and potential risks.

The solution? Read labels carefully and avoid any products that list parabens. Do some research! There are plenty of great brands that use non toxic ingredients.

Read more in the blog on our website titled "Are Your Body Care Products Making You Sick?" and stay tuned for the announcement of our new course all about toxins in your home!

⚠️ You can't see, smell or feel them, but EMFs (electromagnetic fields) are all around us - and they could be putting your health at risk.

What are EMFs? They're invisible areas of energy, also called radiation, emitted by anything that runs on electricity or wireless signals. This includes household appliances, WiFi routers, cell phones, power lines and more.

Why are EMFs bad? Numerous studies have linked prolonged EMF exposure to potential health issues like:

📶 Headaches, fatigue and sleep disturbances
🧠 Memory and concentration problems
❤️ Increased risk of cardiovascular disease
🧬 Potential DNA damage and cancer risk

EMFs can interfere with the electrical signals in our bodies, causing cellular stress and disrupting biological processes over time.

While more research is still needed, reducing your EMF exposure is a wise precaution. Simple tips:

📵 Limit cell phone use and keep it away from your body
⏲️ Unplug appliances when not in use
🌱 Add EMF-shielding houseplants like aloe vera
😴 Disable WiFi at night in your sleeping area

Don't let invisible EMFs silently jeopardize your wellbeing. A few simple changes can minimize your exposure levels.

Head to the EMF blog on our website under "EMF Assessment"
(our website link is in bio) to learn more!

Also, check out our course titled: EMF Testing Crash Course
Learn the four main types of EMF, how to measure them, and how to protect yourself!

This is a question that gets asked a lot- How can I support detoxification in my home?

It may be less complicated than you think!

1. Non toxic cookware 🥘
2. Open windows 🪟💨
3. Non toxic cleaners 🧽
4. House plants 🪴

Swipe through to read more!

Questions? Comment below!

📣 Stay tuned for the announcement of our new course all about toxins in your home!

Particulate matter (PM)is one of the most overlooked pieces of a healthy home.

There is an abundant amount of research showing detrimental health effects to particulate matter outdoors. Like this: https://www.harvardmagazine.com/2020/10/alzheimers-parkinsons-dementia-air-pollution

But particulate matter indoors is JUST as important!

So what causes elevations in PM? Cooking, vacuuming, pets, burning candles, burning incense, indoor fires, you get the idea.

Of course, we’re not going to get rid of our pets, nor stop cooking, but there are many things you can do to reduce your PM level.

First I recommend getting an air quality monitor like this one: https://amzn.to/3wKLrJM

It’s important to know if your PM level is even elevated to begin with. Then, watch what happens when you cook certain food, keep windows closed (or open!), burn candles or incense, turn on your furnace etc.

Once you have data, you can make adjustments accordingly:

1. Replace your furnace filter with a good MERV 11-13 filter at least every 3 months if not more.
2. Open a window or turn on the exhaust fan when you cook.
3. Ban the broom. Vacuuming captures PM while sweeping makes it higher.
4. If your vacuum increases the PM level, consider a sealed vacuum like this one: https://amzn.to/4a6KDxi
5. Open the windows to get fresh air and dilution of indoor air
6. Close the windows if the particulate outside is especially high, like on a windy day
7. Wet wipe the house regularly to keep dust at bay (wet wiping is much more effective than dry dusting, which only moves dust around rather than getting rid of it).
8. Be mindful about your scents. Candles and incense (even the natural kind) will increase PM. Essential oils can do the same. Monitor the air if you choose to use these or forgo them altogether.
9. Invest in a good quality air purifier. My favorite is the Jaspr Pro. https://tinyurl.com/bdfhk5we Use code Cooke to save 20%.

Got more tips? Let me know, leave them in the comments below!

💜

For those in the Boise area, next Wednesday, February 28th, we will be holding a free talk at the Karlfeldt Center: 'Creating a Healthy Home for a Healthy Life'.

I will be discussing EMF, and my three colleagues (Jon Clark, Daphne Romani, and Kara Rouselle) will be discussing air quality and strategies to improve the air inside your home.

The talk starts at 6:30 and will be awesome!

https://brioarchitecture.com/event/

If you're interested in living in a new ‘Low EMF’ community and/or becoming an ex-pat in a beautiful tropical location, then you need to check out Gran Pacifica Nicaragua!

Earlier this month I was hired to test an area of undeveloped land about an hour from Managua, Nicaragua in the resort area of Gran Pacifica.

The American Development Company (ECI) would like to create a ‘Low-EMF’ community there for people looking to live a healthier, more natural lifestyle. It’s quite a special place, about 600 yards from the Pacific Ocean, surrounded by a Teak Forest, fantastic weather and quite beautiful.

Skeptical as I was, I was quite pleased with the overall EMF readings and how good the area felt energetically. The beach was phenomenal, the sun very healing and the earthing felt great.

I am also consulting on air quality issues for the homes being built to address VOC and mold issues. All told, I’m pretty excited about this opportunity.

The development company needs 50 people to commit to purchasing a home by the end of April in order for the community to proceed. Because I am so passionate about this becoming a reality, and what it might mean for safe EMF areas in the future, I’m trying to get the word out as much as possible.

I’m getting a lot of questions about the project, so I’m going to hold a webinar on Monday, February 12th at 11:00am PST/2:00pm EST to review the project and answer any questions you may have.

If you’re interested in attending, here is the registration link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwsfumhrTIrGd1O3VkttVMPkV_SHaILMrp7

Let me know if you have any questions!

Have you heard of Christmas Tree Syndrome? It's real.

Ever wonder why you get increased allergies or respiratory issues around the holidays?

Not only can Christmas tree have mold spores, but they can also have pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, pollens, pests and other chemicals from air pollution.

That's not to say you shouldn't have one! Just be aware of the type of tree you're getting and where you're getting it from.

If a 'live' tree isn't gong to work for you, there are loads of ways to get creative with making your own using natural materials.

A good air purifier can also help. I recommend the Jaspr Pro. Good air purification is really important this time of year when your house is completely shut, you're cooking for any hours, you have guests over, and the furnace is working overtime. Use my code Cooke to save 20% off the Jaspr Pro. Just in time for the holidays!

Episode 15: Whole Home & Body Health with Cathy Cookie In this interview with Cathy Cooke, Building Biologist and founder of Whole Home & Body, we talk about the impact of EMF and air quality on your health, how ...

The weight of chronic digestive issues extends well beyond the physical… In their often uncomfortable, embarrassing and painful persistence, they can make you feel isolated, like a prisoner in your own body, sapped of your vitality, your joy and your self-esteem.

Still, there is a path you can take out of discomfort into resilience…Enjoy learning from The Gut Reset Summit: Your Journey to Empowered Health from Nov. 27 – Dec. 3, 2023. It’s free and online!

Join Gut Reset Summit: Your Journey to Empowered Health, online and free from November 27 - December 3, 2023! Ready to break free of chronic digestive issues and elevate your health? Unravel the root causes of poor gut health and learn how to restore digestive harmony with John Dempster, ND.

Did you know that you are exposed to EMFs 24/7, even from satellites in space? These invisible frequencies pour down from above, and can have a negative impact on your health, including memory loss, inflammation, and cancer.

In his new documentary, Electric YOUniverse (FREE with coupon code ‘DOCLAUNCH’), Lloyd Burrell shares his story of how he overcame the negative effects of EMFs and regained his own health.

Electric YOUniverse - Healing With Vibration Pain? Anxiety? Stress? Trouble Sleeping? Electric YOUniverse – Unlock The Secret Enter The Coupon Code ‘DOCLAUNCH’ Below For FREE Access To The Exclusive Prerelease PRIVATE Screening Of The Brand New Electric YOUniverse Documentary (No Credit Card Required) There’s a powerful life-force ener...

It's starting now! If you haven't signed up for the Healthier Tech summit it starts today. A fantastic resource for all things EMF, learning how to measure, how to reduce your exposure, and how to live healthier lives amidst all our technology. This week only....and there will be live panels every day as well, so get your questions answered in real time. ‪

HEALTHIER TECH SUMMIT Registration Page The first ever Healthier Tech Summit brings together a wide and unique variety of expert voices across EMF, Building Biology, and Digital Wellness to help people on their journey to find a healthier balance with modern technology.

Can't wait for this incredible free summit on Sept 18th-20th. My friends at Healthier Tech are putting on a great show. The best speakers in the business will be there - talking about how to reduce your EMF exposure, health implications, considerations for children, wildlife, advocacy, and even how to improve your Air Quality (by yours truly!). This is one summit that you don't want to miss, so much valuable information. Register here: https://summit.healthiertech.co/a/2147623329/m65Yyacu

Unplug Your Couch!!! Easy solution to lower EMF Even just by having your couch plugged in, you get very high electric fields. Learn how to reduce your exposure in this video.Have questions? Email me at c...

I love my studio yoga classes but this yoga spot isn't too shabby.

July 18th, 7pm Boise
HFI at the Movies
Village Cinemas in Merdian
GENERATION ZAPPED
plus Q&A with Cathy Cooke, Building Biologist
Cathy Cooke is a Building Biologist and board-certified Holistic Nutritionist. She will be available to answer questions about creating a healthy home free of mold, chemicals and EMFs

Join us for a private screening of Generation Zapped, a powerful documentary that explores the effects of wireless technology on our health and the environment.

This thought-provoking film is a must-see for parents and teens alike, as it sheds light on the potential dangers of our increasingly connected world. The screening will take place on July 18 at 7 pm at the Village Cinemas.

Tickets are available for purchase HERE for $12. Don't miss this opportunity to see Generation Zapped with your teens and start a conversation about the impact of technology on our lives.

HFI hosts this event, and promises to be an informative and eye-opening experience. Join us for an evening of education and discussion about the effects of wireless technology on our health and the environment.

Buy Tickets: https://secure.anedot.com/health-freedom-idaho/generation-zapped-boise-c4317c211955b4b850461

I've been bitten by dogs, attacked by bats, had more than my share of mold exposures, nearly bitten by black widows, had numerous rodent encounters, including their droppings, had more than one rusty nail puncture, been into the tightest, most claustrophobic places you can imagine, stranded in crawl spaces without a light, and yet....the biggest torture of all is when you're faced with a fresh loaf of sourdough bread just pulled out of the oven and you have to pretend you don't see it....for like hours...O.M.G...the pain!

Think your brand new house is as clean as can be? Don't be fooled that your new build is perfectly healthy. This house is under construction, only the framing is visible and everything looks great on the surface.....but then I got into the crawl space and found this.
..standing water throughout the entire crawl, numerous rips, tears, and holes, active mold growth.

Thankfully the homeowners knew how important it is to get an inspection even during the construction phase. Now the contractor has to fix this problem.

I see this way more often than you'd believe. If you're building a new home, make sure you know what your builder is doing!!

Going around in circles trying to heal? What if the solution to your chronic health struggles lies beyond the physical? Discover what’s blocking your recovery and learn how to optimize the mind-body-energy connection for next-level health and wellness! Join us for The Psycho-Energetic Root Causes of Chronic Illness Masterclass from June 26 – July 2, 2023. It’s free and online!

Join Psycho-Energetic Root Causes of Chronic Illness Masterclass, online and free from June 26 - July 2, 2023! Going around in circles trying to heal? What if the solution to your chronic health struggles lies beyond the physical? Discover what’s blocking your recovery and learn how to optimize the mind-body-energy connection for next-level health and wellness with Dr. Eva Detko!