NATURAL LIVING: Toothpaste (Part One)

I wanted to begin some "Natural Living" articles to show do-it-yourself ways to bypass the toxins found in store bought toothpaste, shampoos, laundry detergent, etc... as making your own products at home is good for your body, environment, and tends to be more cost effective.

This first article is concerning toothpaste and the toxins found in store-bought (non-natural) versions and info on store-bought alternatives.  Part two will feature multiple recipes to make your own toothpastes at home.

TOOTHPASTE TOXINS
These toothpaste toxins include detergents, artificial colors, chemical sweeteners  and items simply put in to affect the texture of our toothpaste (like how much it foams).  Check the label on your toothpaste to see what you find.

ASPARTAME, SACHHARIN: (Artificial sweeteners) Linked to serious health problems such as visual impairment, severe muscle aches, pancreatitis, high blood pressure, seizures, and depression. Source

FD&C BLUE DYE No2: (Colored synthetic) Can cause hyperactivity, allergic reactions, and cancer. Source

FLUORIDE: (Supposed to "protect" teeth) Also found in municiple water supplies and rat poison,  fluoride has some very serious side effects.  Although, it's supposed to protect our teeth this toxin damages teeth over time, causes cancer, damages the nervous system, and creates weak teeth and bones. See the video below "The Fluoride Deception" for more information on this dangerous toxin. Source

GLYCERIN: (Texture) Coats the enamel and prevents natural re-mineralization of teeth. Source

SODIUM LAURL SULFATE (SLS): (Creates foaming texture) Although this toxin originates from coconut, it is anything but natural.  The manufacturing process used results in SLS becoming contaminated by dioxane which in turns creates a carcinogenic by-product. Source

SORBITOL: (Creates liquid consistency of toothpaste) Laxative Effects. Source

TRICLOSAN: (Anti-bacterial) Shown to be an endocrine disruptor, skin irritant and can cause allergic reactions.  Source

SHORT FILM: The Fluoride Deception

STORE-BOUGHT NATURAL ALTERNATIVES
While the safest way to move past these toxins is to make your own natural toothpastes at home. I realize some of you may not feel you have the time or commitment to do DIY alternative.  Take a look at the easy recipes provided in part II before you make your decision.  I've provided several flavors and please keep in mind that some natural toothpaste products are being taken over by giant companies who are using cheaper ingredients for larger profit.

Still not convinced? Here are some suggested natural toothpastes to look into:

• Tom's of Maine
• PCC'S Natural Market, Toothpaste Chart
• Rose of Sharon Acres - Tooth Chips *Alternative to brushing*

Part Two: DIY Toothpaste Recipes