Scrunchy Mom's Unite: A Parent's Guide to Healthier Choices
If the government isn't protecting our products, I'm trying to find the alternatives that work best for our family.
Just the other day I was laughing with my husband about how I used to eat White Castle burgers growing up, but I cringe when I have to give my daughter something that’s not organic, pasture raised, and grassfed. Oh, how the times have changed! Since Zaia was born I’ve been really intentional about what goes on and in her body. Turns out, according to the social media world, I’m what would be considered a scrunchy mom. I don’t go as far as crunchy moms who tend to make most things from scratch, discourage TV time, and avoid traditional medicine and I’m not the type that skips checking the labels and just goes with the flow – I’m right in the middle. I read the labels on food, medicine, and cleaning products. I try to avoid plastic toys when possible. I look for healthier alternatives to the foods we love. And I’m following a Montessori method, while also embracing that sometimes we all need some screentime.
For me, being a scrunchy mom is about striking a balance between modern convenience and natural, health-conscious choices for my family. I know I can’t avoid every bad thing out there (and yes, I pull out a bag of Doritos to get my daughter to calm down on a flight), but in our house, we try to limit the exposure to potentially harmful chemicals, additives, and environmental toxins. Studies have shown, this approach can have long-term benefits for our children's health, potentially reducing the risk of allergies, sensitivities, and other health issues. My hope is that by making informed choices about the products we use, we're also supporting more sustainable and ethical manufacturing practices. If my money is going to a small business who is about creating a great product and doing good for the environment, even better!
I’m not gonna lie, choosing to go this route definitely requires more effort and research. I am that girl in the supermarket stopping to read labels before adding something to my cart. But honestly, we have to because these big brands do not care if what we’re bringing into our homes is basura, they’re just trying to make their money. Take Kellogg’s for example. The company promised to remove artificial dyes from its cereals by 2018 and never did so. However, in Canada, Kellogg's Froot Loops are now made with natural fruit juice concentrates, but cereals in the U.S. still contain chemical additives and preservatives. Studies suggest that colorants and dyes may be linked to hyperactivity and other neurobehavioral problems in some children. As parents, we shouldn’t have to dig for this information and question the safety of everything we buy, but unfortunately that’s not the case. Of course, this post is not to shame any parent on the choices they make. The responsibility should be on the corporations who are supplying our products, but until that day comes, I’m here to help!
So if the idea of doing this research gives you a headache, I gotchu! I genuinely enjoy finding the alternatives. For the next few weeks I’ll be sharing some of my favorite healthier swaps. Not everything is the cleanest out there, but they’re good alternatives. If you’re looking for extreme changes, I’m just not that girl. I still need some convenience with my peace of mind. If there’s something you’re curious about or have a suggestion for me, please send me a message or drop a comment below.
Mary Ruth’s Kids Multivitamin Gummies: Cleanish ingredients and what kid doesn’t love eating a gummy. (Or parent for that matter. IYKYK lol)
Honest Pull Ups: I am not a cloth diaper mom. But when looking for an alternative to Pampers or Huggies, I found we really liked the Honest brand. They’re available at Target, which always makes my life easier.
PlanetBox Lunch Box: Once we started putting Zaia in her little school, I knew I wanted a BentoBox style lunchbox, but I didn’t want it to be plastic. We are a big fan of the PlanetBox stainless steal ones because they are indestructible and easy for her to open.
Wood Cutting Boards: Getting rid of my plastic cutting boards was a necessary step as we try to limit our plastics exposure.
Genexa Pain & Fever Relief: Listen, there’s nothing scarier than a child with a fever or who’s in excruciating pain from teething. I’m so happy to have found Genexa which is basically Tylenol made with agave syrup and no dyes.
Simple Mills Pita Crackers: In this house, Simple Mills is that bish. They make amazing products with whole food ingredients. These with some hummus and Z is a happy girl.
Earth Breeze Laundry Sheets: This is a recent switch of mine so I will give the full review soon. But I love the idea of not having to worry about a bulky plastic container that probably won’t get recycled properly or measuring out liquid for my load. Win-win.
Ahimsa Plates: Since I’m not trusting Zaia with ceramic plates yet, stainless steel is the second best option. I like this brand because it’s minority and woman-owned.
Blueland Dishwasher Tablets: In another attempt to eliminate plastic and questionable chemicals, I switched over our dishwasher tablets a few months ago and have been super happy with this product. The dishes are clean and it’s plastic-free, no mess packaging.
Organic Valley Milk: Kids need their milk, but not all organic milk is created equally. I used to buy Horizon, until I learned their standards have slipped and there have even been reports of animal abuse at their farms. Now I try to stick to Organic Valley which has scored well with the EWG and Cornucopia Institute.
Solely Fruit Gummies: 2-ingredient fruit gummies that just include the actual fruit? It shouldn’t sound groundbreaking but it is and I’m obsessed with these.
I hope you found these helpful. Let me know if you try any and what other alternative products you’re looking for.
May life continue to bring you ease and joy.
Abrazos,
j
Zaia is so lucky to have a scrunchy momma like you!!!