An MD’s Guide To Decrease Chemical Exposure (Without The Stress)

In a world increasingly inundated by chemicals, environmental toxins are a hidden culprit behind many chronic illnesses and autoimmune diseases. Aly Cohen, M.D., a board-certified rheumatologist, integrative medicine specialist, and environmental health expert, is on a mission to raise awareness about these immune-disrupting chemicals and how we can reduce our exposure. 

On the mindbodygreen podcast and in her new book, Detoxify, Cohen shares accessible, science-backed solutions to minimize toxin exposure and improve overall health.

The silent rise of immune disruption

It’s no secret that autoimmune diseases and chronic health conditions are on the rise—but Cohen believes one of the culprits is often hiding in plain sight: environmental toxins. 

From the food we eat to the air we breathe, our modern world is filled with immune-disrupting chemicals that mess with our body’s natural defenses. While genetics and lifestyle factors certainly play a role, Cohen argues that a lot of this damage could be avoided with a few simple changes to the way we live.

A four step plan for detoxing your life 

Ready to take control of your health? Cohen’s detox approach is refreshingly simple:

Creating a non-toxic home

One of Cohen’s primary areas of concern is creating a non-toxic home. “Your home is your castle,” she says, but it can also be a fortress of chemicals if we’re not careful. 

Here are a few simple, budget-friendly ideas for making your living space cleaner and healthier:

The takeaway

Cohen’s approach is refreshingly practical and science-driven. Rather than overwhelming us with the need for a complete overhaul, she encourages small, manageable changes that add up over time. 

She reminds us that even if we can’t eliminate every toxin, we can significantly reduce our exposure through mindful choices in our homes and daily routines. Whether it's swapping out cleaning products, investing in water filtration, or being more mindful of our environment, we can all take actionable steps toward better health.