I read the labels on EVERYTHING. I find that when I’m lazy, I get burned and buy products that I regret buying. In the last 6 years I’ve learned so much about good health. And one of the most important things I’ve learned is to read labels and be aware of what I’m putting into my body and what I’m giving my family.

When I look at a label, I want to ensure that I understand what the ingredients are. I want to be able to pronounce them and understand what they are used for. If I don’t know I ask or look it up on-line.

You cannot rely on the outside package of a product either. So don’t be misled by the words “Natural” or “Organic” appearing on a product’s label. Do the research to make sure it really contains good ingredients.

As I started on my health journey, I remember reading various articles on personal care products. There were certain ingredients to avoid in lipstick- like lead, and there’s the dirty dozen to avoid in personal care products, including parabens and sodium lauryl sulphates. So I made a list of all of the ingredients to avoid. I then read another article in this health and wellness magazine that was recommending several personal care products.

I was looking for a lotion to replace the Vaseline lotion I had used for years, because it is petroleum based. I decided to try one that was recommended in the article. I was absolutely floored when I picked up the lotion at the store and read the ingredients – it contained parabens. How could the magazine in one article say that you should avoid these ingredients, then in another article recommend a product that contains some of the nasty ingredients.

Get into the habit of reading the ingredients on the products you buy. Your body will thank you for it!