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Fatal Conveniences: The Toxic Products and Harmful Habits That Are Making You Sick—and the Simple Changes That Will Save Your Health
The New York Times bestselling author of SuperLife and cohost with Zac Efron of the hit Netflix series Down to Earth, Darin Olien offers invaluable advice for addressing the health of our bodies and the health of the planet by identifying common products and behaviors that are harmful and providing alternatives that are non-toxic and life-enhancing.
Fatal conveniences are the toxic products we routinely use and the unhealthy things we do that our culture and corporations have made us believe are safe and necessary for living well and efficiently. These things--from deodorant, cosmetics, dental floss, and sunscreen to laundry detergent, air fresheners, carpets, and crayons to candles, tea bags, cell phones, and chewing gum--are ubiquitous in daily life . . . and they are wreaking havoc on our health and our planet. The environmental toxins found in these products create a cascade of problems, including chemical sensitivities, auto-immune issues, obesity, chronic health diseases, and more.
Darin Olien has spent most of his adult life obsessively researching these "conveniences" and in this book, he raises our awareness of their dangers, demolishes the myth that "if it's easy, it must also be good," and gives us alternative choices to take control of our lives and our health. Fatal Conveniences offers a fresh perspective and achievable, small tweaks that will lead to big, life-enhancing changes.
Fatal conveniences are the toxic products we routinely use and the unhealthy things we do that our culture and corporations have made us believe are safe and necessary for living well and efficiently. These things--from deodorant, cosmetics, dental floss, and sunscreen to laundry detergent, air fresheners, carpets, and crayons to candles, tea bags, cell phones, and chewing gum--are ubiquitous in daily life . . . and they are wreaking havoc on our health and our planet. The environmental toxins found in these products create a cascade of problems, including chemical sensitivities, auto-immune issues, obesity, chronic health diseases, and more.
Darin Olien has spent most of his adult life obsessively researching these "conveniences" and in this book, he raises our awareness of their dangers, demolishes the myth that "if it's easy, it must also be good," and gives us alternative choices to take control of our lives and our health. Fatal Conveniences offers a fresh perspective and achievable, small tweaks that will lead to big, life-enhancing changes.
301 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 16, 2023
261 people are currently reading
4459 people want to read
About the author
Darin Olien
4 books249 followersFounder and visionary of SuperLife, is the first ever health and wellness expert to be coined a “Superfood Hunter.” He is known uniquely within the health and wellness community as an exotic superfood expert, supplement formulator, and environmental activist who travels the planet to discover new and underutilized medicinal plants.
Inspired by his travels around the world, he has created an individualized approach to achieving optimal health through small changes and daily habits based on the wisdom of global cultures. It’s his no-judgement, progress-focused, supportive approach that gets results.
Darin’s interest in food and nutrition began when a college football injury drove him to uncover better ways to heal his body. He realized there had to be a better option out there after he struggled to recover using only traditional Western medicine treatments that failed to address the healing potential of his diet and lifestyle choices. It’s then that he began to pursue a healthier lifestyle and deeper understanding of how hydration, nutrition, and exercise can truly impact the human body. Darin changed his major, studying Exercise Physiology and Nutrition. He now holds a Bachelor degree in this field as well as a Masters in Psychology. Today Darin is widely recognized as an authority and valuable resource on plant–based nutrition, supplement formulation and elite performance programs, which he has created for some of the top athletes in the world.
After 20+ years of travel and unwavering dedication to research, Darin published his book,“SuperLife: The 5 Simple Fixes That Will Make You Healthy, Fit & Eternally Awesome” in 2015 at the same time that the online SuperLife community was founded. One year later, the leading SuperLife 10-Day Nutrition program was launched, which has helped thousands successfully reclaim their health and experience the healing power of plant-based nutrition.
Inspired by his travels around the world, he has created an individualized approach to achieving optimal health through small changes and daily habits based on the wisdom of global cultures. It’s his no-judgement, progress-focused, supportive approach that gets results.
Darin’s interest in food and nutrition began when a college football injury drove him to uncover better ways to heal his body. He realized there had to be a better option out there after he struggled to recover using only traditional Western medicine treatments that failed to address the healing potential of his diet and lifestyle choices. It’s then that he began to pursue a healthier lifestyle and deeper understanding of how hydration, nutrition, and exercise can truly impact the human body. Darin changed his major, studying Exercise Physiology and Nutrition. He now holds a Bachelor degree in this field as well as a Masters in Psychology. Today Darin is widely recognized as an authority and valuable resource on plant–based nutrition, supplement formulation and elite performance programs, which he has created for some of the top athletes in the world.
After 20+ years of travel and unwavering dedication to research, Darin published his book,“SuperLife: The 5 Simple Fixes That Will Make You Healthy, Fit & Eternally Awesome” in 2015 at the same time that the online SuperLife community was founded. One year later, the leading SuperLife 10-Day Nutrition program was launched, which has helped thousands successfully reclaim their health and experience the healing power of plant-based nutrition.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
June 1, 2023
This was a very quick read especially since I follow the author on instagram and have seen his Neflix series.
Not a lot of new information here in terms of identifying the problems. I think it’s important to be aware and make good decisions but the deck is stacked in favor of big business and government both of which are completely greed driven. Let’s face it in our world someone is working on a pill to get microplastics out of your body so we can still buy plastic.
I enjoy the author but have read so many of these types of books I do get suspicious of “professional Influencers “ . It’s all about branding and marketing. This book is full of endorsements and Daren gets paid to endorse. I’m sure he gets the newest stuff to drive, wear, and use along with the latest tech toys all hoping for a podcast interview or instagram “like”.
That being said I’m happy this stuff is being talked about.
As a career member of the printing industry, I am surprized this book did not carry an SFC, SFI, or rainforest Alliance logo verifying the paper was ethically sourced. No acid free paper or soy ink statement either.
On a positive note in keeping with the book’s theme I borrowed this copy from my local library!
Not a lot of new information here in terms of identifying the problems. I think it’s important to be aware and make good decisions but the deck is stacked in favor of big business and government both of which are completely greed driven. Let’s face it in our world someone is working on a pill to get microplastics out of your body so we can still buy plastic.
I enjoy the author but have read so many of these types of books I do get suspicious of “professional Influencers “ . It’s all about branding and marketing. This book is full of endorsements and Daren gets paid to endorse. I’m sure he gets the newest stuff to drive, wear, and use along with the latest tech toys all hoping for a podcast interview or instagram “like”.
That being said I’m happy this stuff is being talked about.
As a career member of the printing industry, I am surprized this book did not carry an SFC, SFI, or rainforest Alliance logo verifying the paper was ethically sourced. No acid free paper or soy ink statement either.
On a positive note in keeping with the book’s theme I borrowed this copy from my local library!
November 13, 2023
I heard a podcast featuring this author and his take on EMFs. That was an intriguing topic for me. So I searched out his books and found this one at my local library. Now after listening to the audio, I'm feeling a little disenchanted.
I'm not a fan of fingerpointing or sarcasm when it comes to opposing views and research. I like it when authors own their way of life with passion and zest. I didn't feel that from this author. He showed a healthy dislike for those with opposing views. I wanted more joy. More Passion. Not all the nay saying when research contradicted his own.
I did like the chapters on EMFs, laundry detergent, and clothing. But the overall tone made it hard to feel like I could glean very much. So 2 stars.
I'm not a fan of fingerpointing or sarcasm when it comes to opposing views and research. I like it when authors own their way of life with passion and zest. I didn't feel that from this author. He showed a healthy dislike for those with opposing views. I wanted more joy. More Passion. Not all the nay saying when research contradicted his own.
I did like the chapters on EMFs, laundry detergent, and clothing. But the overall tone made it hard to feel like I could glean very much. So 2 stars.
May 21, 2023
Informative and eye opening, Olien exposes the dangers all around us in the products we use every day. The cosmetics and toiletries were of specific interest to me as someone with allergies, and I was shocked how many products I use are in fact really bad. While he does provide alternative options for some of the products, I would take them with a grain of salt as the advertisement for certain products feels like a sales pitch. Also some of the dangers he cautions against are sensationalist and can easily be proven factually incorrect with a simple Google search.
June 12, 2023
It’s cool but I kinda feel like I’m going to die if I even think about eating anything…
March 16, 2025
the overall message is strong and i feel like i have a lot of ideological alignment with it: be healthy by avoiding chemicals, be good to the environment by avoiding single use items, eat organic when you can, avoid foods with ingredients you can’t pronounce, shun fast fashion and microplastics, and keep forever chemicals out of our bodies. that’s all super noble, but i felt that many times a line was crossed from pursuing simple, agreeable outcomes and turned into alarmism. the rest of what i’m going to write will appear critical, but i think it’s super important to critique our media and information to ensure that it is quality, reviewed, and well sourced, lest we create more anti-vaxxers, even if i do agree with the base objective of the book.
so here it is: i struggled to really understand his credibility on the subject matter aside from his own years of research. he has a masters degree, but from an unaccredited university in psychology, which is worrisome. also, throughout the book he references study after study but includes zero citations or footnotes, which is a red flag to me. sure, he provided a web link at the end, but that creates an unnecessary barrier to see the examples credibility he attempts to build upon.
unfortunately, with some of the trials referenced, he makes strong conclusions based on singular studies and small sample sizes. yes, this stuff can be scary, but it’s also giving preemptive alarmist when considering his word choice and pathos. if we’re to make health claims that would disrupt entire industries, i just think the evidence should more that corollary. (again, i don’t think he’s necessarily incorrect, just without sufficient evidence to convince me.)
much of the overall thesis is that there are chemicals ruling everything around us, whether clothes, plastics, skin care products, laundry detergents, soaps, and so much more. this is indisputable. unfortunately that is the world that has been cultivated over the past several decades. the evidence is in the number of forever chemicals and microplastics found not just in our bodies, but in fish, the soil, and even arctic icebergs. in fact, it’s near impossible to test a human and find no evidence of either, that’s how ubiquitous they are.
he keeps saying that we’re test subjects for radiation from wifi and phones, or chemicals placed in daily use materials, which is true since we don’t truly know their long term effects even if they seem fine in the short-term. i can’t dispute that, and again, i feel alignment with a lot of his message. however, when he’s saying to avoid cleaning chemicals because they’re dangerous (obviously, but purposefully), our phones in pockets, sunscreen, bras, most water, and t-shirts, i think the argument starts to run away from the thesis of “conveniences”. at this point there are some chemicals that are just too ingrained societally to avoid, so those shouldn’t be the focus of where we try to combat our exposure. find the excess and trim that instead of a total overhaul of our entire lives.
he offers several solutions to avert allostatic overload. the big trade for all of these chemical-reduced upgrades is the cost financially, where i think he undervalues the inaccessibility for the majority of the population. he repeatedly writes that the increased price is worth the extra cost for long term health, but i truly know maybe two people who could actually afford half of these lifestyle changes. it just isn’t feasible, even in the name of potentially improved health.
a lot of conjecture went in to telling us not to buy something that isn’t even necessarily proven to be harmful. now, i don’t mean to sound like the tobacco lobbyists of yore, but i felt like i needed to hear further compelling evidence that some of these products actually are harming us. not the several probablies, maybes, likelies, perchances, or possibles included. if he’s telling us that we are under incessant assault from these chemicals, i think i’d like more concrete evidence than we received.
he mentions potential confounding variables, where he acknowledges that things may happen differently in our bodies when the cumulative chemicals from all of the different sources interact in our body, but there isn’t proof. then, he writes that he unequivocally believes that one certain chemical is bad because it may have been in trials, disregarding how he knows we know nothing about the interaction of the plethora of chemicals within our bodies and can’t say for certain if one chemical is responsible for increased cancer risks, decreased sperm counts, or fetal neurological disorders because it’s simply impossible to isolate one chemical’s effects.
in the end, i think this book could be good for a quick perusal for persons seeking to reduce their chemical intake, but not a comprehensive guidebook. he provides great alternatives at the end and comprehensive recipes for making one’s own products if they so desire. but to read and take everything at face value would be to lean too far into a message that borders fear-mongering at times. i’m glad i read it and that books like this exist, but i hope for deeper research in the future.
so here it is: i struggled to really understand his credibility on the subject matter aside from his own years of research. he has a masters degree, but from an unaccredited university in psychology, which is worrisome. also, throughout the book he references study after study but includes zero citations or footnotes, which is a red flag to me. sure, he provided a web link at the end, but that creates an unnecessary barrier to see the examples credibility he attempts to build upon.
unfortunately, with some of the trials referenced, he makes strong conclusions based on singular studies and small sample sizes. yes, this stuff can be scary, but it’s also giving preemptive alarmist when considering his word choice and pathos. if we’re to make health claims that would disrupt entire industries, i just think the evidence should more that corollary. (again, i don’t think he’s necessarily incorrect, just without sufficient evidence to convince me.)
much of the overall thesis is that there are chemicals ruling everything around us, whether clothes, plastics, skin care products, laundry detergents, soaps, and so much more. this is indisputable. unfortunately that is the world that has been cultivated over the past several decades. the evidence is in the number of forever chemicals and microplastics found not just in our bodies, but in fish, the soil, and even arctic icebergs. in fact, it’s near impossible to test a human and find no evidence of either, that’s how ubiquitous they are.
he keeps saying that we’re test subjects for radiation from wifi and phones, or chemicals placed in daily use materials, which is true since we don’t truly know their long term effects even if they seem fine in the short-term. i can’t dispute that, and again, i feel alignment with a lot of his message. however, when he’s saying to avoid cleaning chemicals because they’re dangerous (obviously, but purposefully), our phones in pockets, sunscreen, bras, most water, and t-shirts, i think the argument starts to run away from the thesis of “conveniences”. at this point there are some chemicals that are just too ingrained societally to avoid, so those shouldn’t be the focus of where we try to combat our exposure. find the excess and trim that instead of a total overhaul of our entire lives.
he offers several solutions to avert allostatic overload. the big trade for all of these chemical-reduced upgrades is the cost financially, where i think he undervalues the inaccessibility for the majority of the population. he repeatedly writes that the increased price is worth the extra cost for long term health, but i truly know maybe two people who could actually afford half of these lifestyle changes. it just isn’t feasible, even in the name of potentially improved health.
a lot of conjecture went in to telling us not to buy something that isn’t even necessarily proven to be harmful. now, i don’t mean to sound like the tobacco lobbyists of yore, but i felt like i needed to hear further compelling evidence that some of these products actually are harming us. not the several probablies, maybes, likelies, perchances, or possibles included. if he’s telling us that we are under incessant assault from these chemicals, i think i’d like more concrete evidence than we received.
he mentions potential confounding variables, where he acknowledges that things may happen differently in our bodies when the cumulative chemicals from all of the different sources interact in our body, but there isn’t proof. then, he writes that he unequivocally believes that one certain chemical is bad because it may have been in trials, disregarding how he knows we know nothing about the interaction of the plethora of chemicals within our bodies and can’t say for certain if one chemical is responsible for increased cancer risks, decreased sperm counts, or fetal neurological disorders because it’s simply impossible to isolate one chemical’s effects.
in the end, i think this book could be good for a quick perusal for persons seeking to reduce their chemical intake, but not a comprehensive guidebook. he provides great alternatives at the end and comprehensive recipes for making one’s own products if they so desire. but to read and take everything at face value would be to lean too far into a message that borders fear-mongering at times. i’m glad i read it and that books like this exist, but i hope for deeper research in the future.
June 30, 2023
It’s one of those things where, while yes it is eye opening, it’s also incredibly depressing to spend your entire life being reminded that everything is trying to kill you. Will I make better choices when possible? Absolutely. But can I change the mind of 7 billion people, including greedy and money hungry corporations who could not care less about the well-being of earth? No. As a collective, if we could all start some sort of movement, I would be all in. But until then even if I make homemade deodorant and buy all natural fiber, organic furniture I’m still constantly surrounded by radiation and chemicals everywhere I go.
The book is clear about stating that no studies can or ever will be done taking into account all the cumulative effects of all our exposures. So we will never really know how all of these chemicals and whatnot add up to impact health. Similarly, if I go through all the time and effort (basically have my life revolve around constant worry and anxiety about what my body is exposed to day after day) to change every thing the author recommends there is no way to scientifically confirm that I’ll never get cancer or even that blood tests won’t reveal my body has been exposed to the same thing as everything else. Also, spoiler alert(?) I had cancer before I was 40 and I grew up in a rural area, no Wi-Fi, fresh garden vegetables and fruit, no air conditioning, and little money for extra “conveniences”.
The book is clear about stating that no studies can or ever will be done taking into account all the cumulative effects of all our exposures. So we will never really know how all of these chemicals and whatnot add up to impact health. Similarly, if I go through all the time and effort (basically have my life revolve around constant worry and anxiety about what my body is exposed to day after day) to change every thing the author recommends there is no way to scientifically confirm that I’ll never get cancer or even that blood tests won’t reveal my body has been exposed to the same thing as everything else. Also, spoiler alert(?) I had cancer before I was 40 and I grew up in a rural area, no Wi-Fi, fresh garden vegetables and fruit, no air conditioning, and little money for extra “conveniences”.
June 1, 2023
Hard-hitting. Full of scary facts. Makes you question literally everything you do in life.
July 11, 2024
2.5 out of 5
I’m going to start out with the positive, because despite what it may look like, I enjoyed the information this book gave. I knew or had suspected some of the fatal conveniences that would be listed. I learned a lot of ones I hadn’t thought about before. He did a pretty good job of laying out good, detailed descriptions of why he labels them “fatal conveniences”. I plan on making some changes because of this book. So that’s a plus.
Now, for the negative. He is so repetitive. So much so, I could have probably been extremely accurate with what he was going to say after 100 pages or so just by looking at the headings. Everything is bad for us and we need to do better. The repetition wouldn’t be as annoying if his tone wasn’t so condescending. He writes with a know-it-all, holier-than-thou attitude that really started to grate on me. It would probably be 4 stars if he didn’t come off so pretentious.
I’m going to start out with the positive, because despite what it may look like, I enjoyed the information this book gave. I knew or had suspected some of the fatal conveniences that would be listed. I learned a lot of ones I hadn’t thought about before. He did a pretty good job of laying out good, detailed descriptions of why he labels them “fatal conveniences”. I plan on making some changes because of this book. So that’s a plus.
Now, for the negative. He is so repetitive. So much so, I could have probably been extremely accurate with what he was going to say after 100 pages or so just by looking at the headings. Everything is bad for us and we need to do better. The repetition wouldn’t be as annoying if his tone wasn’t so condescending. He writes with a know-it-all, holier-than-thou attitude that really started to grate on me. It would probably be 4 stars if he didn’t come off so pretentious.
June 4, 2023
Zeer de moeite waar om te lezen. Houd er alleen wel rekening mee dat je alles wat je zo'n beetje bezit de deur uit moet als je het boek uit hebt gelezen.
August 2, 2023
I recommend this book with two caveats. The first, is that I highly disagree with his push for people to go plant based. Plant based doesn’t automatically mean that animals won’t suffer or that we’ll save the planet. Secondly, his style of writing was a bit “fluffy” for me. I would have appreciated more science, less opinion. He references studies but doesn’t cite them. Overall, it was an informative read and would be good for someone who had no idea about the amount of toxins surrounding us on a daily basis.
February 17, 2024
Overall: It’s a great read in order to be aware of the everyday items that can be harmful to our health. It’s written in quite a negative perspective but the final chapter has some really useful ideas for safer alternatives. I’ve learnt a lot from reading this and will be picking and choosing what to substitute.
What I liked: I liked that it reminded readers that our bodies = our environment, and that they are intrinsically linked. I also liked that it pushed readers to be more thoughtful about the products we use. I really valued the final chapter about healthier alternatives for everyday items.
What I didn’t like: Whilst I liked that Olien included sections on feminine hygiene products and bras, I’m not sure about the section where he promotes people to not wear bras, and to then inform the reader that wearing bras = saggier boobs? Is he speaking from personal experience?🤔 I also didn’t like that the book was light on references and that it told us to visit his website to find his sources.
What I liked: I liked that it reminded readers that our bodies = our environment, and that they are intrinsically linked. I also liked that it pushed readers to be more thoughtful about the products we use. I really valued the final chapter about healthier alternatives for everyday items.
What I didn’t like: Whilst I liked that Olien included sections on feminine hygiene products and bras, I’m not sure about the section where he promotes people to not wear bras, and to then inform the reader that wearing bras = saggier boobs? Is he speaking from personal experience?🤔 I also didn’t like that the book was light on references and that it told us to visit his website to find his sources.
January 14, 2025
Overall, good information. Some of which I already knew, and some of which I didn't. I wasn't a huge fan of the authors voice beyond the facts, but the facts are most important anyway. Definitely afraid this book will make people throw out everything they own and create more waste. Personally, going to work through what I already own and replace with better options as I can. Also helped me pick new pans, sheets, bakeware, etc for our wedding registry.
September 13, 2024
It was a decent synopsis of things to be concerned about. Some of the stuff he’s raising alarms about, like EMF, are interesting. I’m intrigued to try and learn more, but I’m still doubtful this is as big of a deal as he’s making it out to be. Maybe I’ll come back in 10 years to this review and find myself really wrong - guess we’ll see
May 8, 2024
So much to say about so many things. One can only do so much without becoming a starving naked hermit and even then there is no escaping the pervasiveness of the chemicals in our world. I would hope anyone reading/listening to this book will at least consider what they can change in their lives. Some things are much easier than others. More later.
Later:
These are the notes saved in bookmarks as I listened to the audiobook… just copy/pasting them here.
Chapter 1
Flame retardants on things because people used to smoke more in their homes but now we’ve traded out that for candles.
I’m thinking this book may be a bit over-the-top and fear mongering about every single thing, but then again so much of our lives are laden with chemicals that we cannot escape. You can only try.
Chapter 4 - Personal Care Products
Deodorants/Antiperspirants: We stopped using antiperspirants around 1994 and rarely use deodorants now (though that may change to never). It took about 2 years for my armpits to sweat properly. Sweat happens. Live with it.
Author gives a list of things that should go a long way to living a long and healthy life. “…we just need to drink plenty of clean water eat a healthy, mostly plant-based whole food non-highly processed diet, get enough physical activity, sleep eight hours a night, and keep up meaningful social connections.”
Expecting miracles of anti-aging stuff to be found in a tube. It’s like Ponce DeLeon looking for the fountain of youth and instead gets Florida. Lol.
On shampoo: my comments - there is a difference between a bar of body soap and the type of soap in a shampoo. A bar soap will leave a film/residue on your hair just like it leaves a ring on the tub. We call it soap scum. There are bar soaps formulated for use on hair and bar soaps meant for washing clothes or dishes that don’t leave the soap scum behind. Body soaps are “superfatted” which means there are fats left over from the chemical process of making soap from lye and fats. Laundry soap is not superfatted but is formulated to either be neutral on the fat/lye ratio or with slightly more lye left over from the saponification process than fat. I’ve used baking soda mixed in water to wash my hair and apple cider vinegar water to rinse. It works just fine but you have to experiment with the ratios for your hair.
Chapter 5: Food & Beverages
There is a disconnect in here somewhere with the idea of a mostly plant-based diet and growing things yourself and having things done locally and not shipping from far off. All the people that drink coconut milk, almond milk, or other things like that; are they actually sourced locally or are they being shipped? Why not buy milk from the local cow instead of processed coconut milk and almond milk? As the author is fond of pointing out with just about all manufactured/processed goods, a LOT of chemicals and energy are used in the processing.
Growing sprouts: Where did all the sprout seeds come from for someone who is sprouting their own broccoli and alfalfa etc.? Most peoples yards are not sufficient to grow enough broccoli to harvest for sprouting seeds when they’re barely growing enough to possibly just feed themselves broccoli.
“If you have to do without blueberries in February deal with it. If you must have blueberries later in the year, then buy some fresh locally and freeze them or canned them.” Author has a good point here. It is worth considering what you would not be able to eat again if you committed to *only* eating foods grown locally and eaten when in season or preserved for later. For many people not in a tropical climate, that would mean no more bananas for starters.
He is obviously speaking about the dairy industry as a vegetarian/vegan person that is pushing a plant-based diet. He is unrealistic and is exaggerating the process. I agree there are abuses of the system like with most things but there are many by products that come from cattle and using the whole animal is a good use of resources and not wasteful. Without the fertilizer from cows, farmers would have to rely on commercially prepared fertilizers and those have a whole host of problems in the manufacturing, shipping, and use of them.
Not sure what he expects will fertilize all his bean fields to grow the things that he wants everybody to eat. I do not agree with CAFO’S and I would not want the manure from these feedlot operations with all the antibiotics and junk they have to feed them in such close confines. Again, try to source your food locally from small producers.
Yes, grazing animals require a lot of water and pasture land but so does growing crops.
Chapter 6: Electromagnetic Radiation
Even if you can eliminate chemical exposures in most of your life, there is no escaping ER, EMFs, etc…. One can only limit it in small ways. I had to switch to a Bluetooth headset because my phone manufacturer removed the jack for the wired headset.
Chapter 7: Clothing
Disposable diapers: of course these are bad for the skin and the environment, but the alternative is cotton, which he has already said the processing and growing of is also bad for the environment. Maybe we can use those recycled T-shirts for diapers?
Leather: using the whole animal including the skin is a sustainable practice and good stewardship. Again, we see the need to return to small local business rather than large operations. The CAFOs are horrible places but we cannot just condemn all cattle operations because of them. He does make an excellent point in encouraging people to buy second hand for many good reasons.
Chapter 8: Household Products
Plain old water and some vinegar will clean windows just fine. If the windows are streaking, it is probably because you are not cleaning them often enough and/or there is residue in whatever rag/paper you are using. If you clean up your laundry products and start recycling those old t-shirts and towels into cleaning rags, and don’t let your windows get so dirty in the first place, there should be less streaking. Then again, maybe it’s that nasty city water you are using.
I’ve used my homemade soap to wash dishes (no dishwasher here). The do best in good hot water and dried right away with not being left to air dry.
Lye is a dangerous chemical but it a natural by product found in the leachate of wood ashes. It is a necessary ingredient for making soap.
What to use instead of household cleaners? Warm soapy, water! And what is in the soap that you are using? Did you buy it at the store? Wait! Soap is made using lye! he just got done telling us how bad that is. I’ll keep making my own soap with lye and animal fats from cows or olive oil or coconut oil or all of it.
Baking soda… Recently heard that arm and hammer company does things to their baking soda and it’s not just plain old baking soda. And the replacement things that he is recommending require chemicals and processing. Some people use just lemon peel and salt to scrub with and you can make your own vinegar from apple scraps.
My list for replacement cleaning products: natural baking soda, lemons (though they are not a locally grown product for me. I’d have to research what plants and things where I live that would make good substitutes.), apple cider vinegar (I do make my own apple scrap vinegar), and rags from old clothing/sheets/towels etc…
Air conditioning: maybe we use the air conditioning in our cars because we don’t like smelling the exhaust from other cars? Maybe houses could go back to being designed as if AC were not an option? It is a very interesting study to look at the way houses were built before AC was a thing.
Final Comments:
Author says “It’s the capitalist way”? Wrong. It is the way of greed no matter what the economic system is. If it is the capitalist way, why is China so polluted?
Later:
These are the notes saved in bookmarks as I listened to the audiobook… just copy/pasting them here.
Chapter 1
Flame retardants on things because people used to smoke more in their homes but now we’ve traded out that for candles.
I’m thinking this book may be a bit over-the-top and fear mongering about every single thing, but then again so much of our lives are laden with chemicals that we cannot escape. You can only try.
Chapter 4 - Personal Care Products
Deodorants/Antiperspirants: We stopped using antiperspirants around 1994 and rarely use deodorants now (though that may change to never). It took about 2 years for my armpits to sweat properly. Sweat happens. Live with it.
Author gives a list of things that should go a long way to living a long and healthy life. “…we just need to drink plenty of clean water eat a healthy, mostly plant-based whole food non-highly processed diet, get enough physical activity, sleep eight hours a night, and keep up meaningful social connections.”
Expecting miracles of anti-aging stuff to be found in a tube. It’s like Ponce DeLeon looking for the fountain of youth and instead gets Florida. Lol.
On shampoo: my comments - there is a difference between a bar of body soap and the type of soap in a shampoo. A bar soap will leave a film/residue on your hair just like it leaves a ring on the tub. We call it soap scum. There are bar soaps formulated for use on hair and bar soaps meant for washing clothes or dishes that don’t leave the soap scum behind. Body soaps are “superfatted” which means there are fats left over from the chemical process of making soap from lye and fats. Laundry soap is not superfatted but is formulated to either be neutral on the fat/lye ratio or with slightly more lye left over from the saponification process than fat. I’ve used baking soda mixed in water to wash my hair and apple cider vinegar water to rinse. It works just fine but you have to experiment with the ratios for your hair.
Chapter 5: Food & Beverages
There is a disconnect in here somewhere with the idea of a mostly plant-based diet and growing things yourself and having things done locally and not shipping from far off. All the people that drink coconut milk, almond milk, or other things like that; are they actually sourced locally or are they being shipped? Why not buy milk from the local cow instead of processed coconut milk and almond milk? As the author is fond of pointing out with just about all manufactured/processed goods, a LOT of chemicals and energy are used in the processing.
Growing sprouts: Where did all the sprout seeds come from for someone who is sprouting their own broccoli and alfalfa etc.? Most peoples yards are not sufficient to grow enough broccoli to harvest for sprouting seeds when they’re barely growing enough to possibly just feed themselves broccoli.
“If you have to do without blueberries in February deal with it. If you must have blueberries later in the year, then buy some fresh locally and freeze them or canned them.” Author has a good point here. It is worth considering what you would not be able to eat again if you committed to *only* eating foods grown locally and eaten when in season or preserved for later. For many people not in a tropical climate, that would mean no more bananas for starters.
He is obviously speaking about the dairy industry as a vegetarian/vegan person that is pushing a plant-based diet. He is unrealistic and is exaggerating the process. I agree there are abuses of the system like with most things but there are many by products that come from cattle and using the whole animal is a good use of resources and not wasteful. Without the fertilizer from cows, farmers would have to rely on commercially prepared fertilizers and those have a whole host of problems in the manufacturing, shipping, and use of them.
Not sure what he expects will fertilize all his bean fields to grow the things that he wants everybody to eat. I do not agree with CAFO’S and I would not want the manure from these feedlot operations with all the antibiotics and junk they have to feed them in such close confines. Again, try to source your food locally from small producers.
Yes, grazing animals require a lot of water and pasture land but so does growing crops.
Chapter 6: Electromagnetic Radiation
Even if you can eliminate chemical exposures in most of your life, there is no escaping ER, EMFs, etc…. One can only limit it in small ways. I had to switch to a Bluetooth headset because my phone manufacturer removed the jack for the wired headset.
Chapter 7: Clothing
Disposable diapers: of course these are bad for the skin and the environment, but the alternative is cotton, which he has already said the processing and growing of is also bad for the environment. Maybe we can use those recycled T-shirts for diapers?
Leather: using the whole animal including the skin is a sustainable practice and good stewardship. Again, we see the need to return to small local business rather than large operations. The CAFOs are horrible places but we cannot just condemn all cattle operations because of them. He does make an excellent point in encouraging people to buy second hand for many good reasons.
Chapter 8: Household Products
Plain old water and some vinegar will clean windows just fine. If the windows are streaking, it is probably because you are not cleaning them often enough and/or there is residue in whatever rag/paper you are using. If you clean up your laundry products and start recycling those old t-shirts and towels into cleaning rags, and don’t let your windows get so dirty in the first place, there should be less streaking. Then again, maybe it’s that nasty city water you are using.
I’ve used my homemade soap to wash dishes (no dishwasher here). The do best in good hot water and dried right away with not being left to air dry.
Lye is a dangerous chemical but it a natural by product found in the leachate of wood ashes. It is a necessary ingredient for making soap.
What to use instead of household cleaners? Warm soapy, water! And what is in the soap that you are using? Did you buy it at the store? Wait! Soap is made using lye! he just got done telling us how bad that is. I’ll keep making my own soap with lye and animal fats from cows or olive oil or coconut oil or all of it.
Baking soda… Recently heard that arm and hammer company does things to their baking soda and it’s not just plain old baking soda. And the replacement things that he is recommending require chemicals and processing. Some people use just lemon peel and salt to scrub with and you can make your own vinegar from apple scraps.
My list for replacement cleaning products: natural baking soda, lemons (though they are not a locally grown product for me. I’d have to research what plants and things where I live that would make good substitutes.), apple cider vinegar (I do make my own apple scrap vinegar), and rags from old clothing/sheets/towels etc…
Air conditioning: maybe we use the air conditioning in our cars because we don’t like smelling the exhaust from other cars? Maybe houses could go back to being designed as if AC were not an option? It is a very interesting study to look at the way houses were built before AC was a thing.
Final Comments:
Author says “It’s the capitalist way”? Wrong. It is the way of greed no matter what the economic system is. If it is the capitalist way, why is China so polluted?
June 15, 2023
Scarier Book Than Most Jack Ketchum Books
This is an eye-opening and vital read that delves into the hidden dangers lurking in our everyday lives.
This book sheds light on the alarming truth behind common products and habits that can have a detrimental impact on our well-being.
The contents of Fatal Conveniences are undeniably shocking. Olien meticulously exposes the toxic ingredients and harmful practices that have become deeply ingrained in our modern lifestyles. This wake-up call to the dangers lurking in seemingly innocuous products and habits is an essential reminder of the importance of informed choices for our health.
This book was scarier than most Jack Ketchum books.
The book offers a plethora of valuable recommendations to mitigate the risks associated with these toxic conveniences. Olien's well-researched insights empower readers to take control of their health by making simple changes that can yield significant benefits. While not every recommendation may align with personal beliefs or professional expertise, the book serves as a catalyst for further exploration and discussion.
As someone married to a dietitian, I understand that differing perspectives can arise when it comes to health-related topics. However, Fatal Conveniences serves as an excellent starting point for anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of the hidden threats that permeate our daily lives. It encourages readers to critically evaluate their choices and take steps towards healthier living.
I acknowledge its importance in shedding light on a significant health issue. While it may not resonate with every individual, the book acts as a alarm for awareness and personal exploration. Let this book be the catalyst that sparks your journey towards a healthier, more informed lifestyle.
Prepare to be both alarmed and empowered as you dive into Fatal Conveniences. Olien's thought-provoking insights and compelling recommendations offer a crucial perspective on the hidden hazards that jeopardize our well-being. Embrace this opportunity to make simple changes that can have a profound impact on your health and the well-being of those around you.
4.0/5
This is an eye-opening and vital read that delves into the hidden dangers lurking in our everyday lives.
This book sheds light on the alarming truth behind common products and habits that can have a detrimental impact on our well-being.
The contents of Fatal Conveniences are undeniably shocking. Olien meticulously exposes the toxic ingredients and harmful practices that have become deeply ingrained in our modern lifestyles. This wake-up call to the dangers lurking in seemingly innocuous products and habits is an essential reminder of the importance of informed choices for our health.
This book was scarier than most Jack Ketchum books.
The book offers a plethora of valuable recommendations to mitigate the risks associated with these toxic conveniences. Olien's well-researched insights empower readers to take control of their health by making simple changes that can yield significant benefits. While not every recommendation may align with personal beliefs or professional expertise, the book serves as a catalyst for further exploration and discussion.
As someone married to a dietitian, I understand that differing perspectives can arise when it comes to health-related topics. However, Fatal Conveniences serves as an excellent starting point for anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of the hidden threats that permeate our daily lives. It encourages readers to critically evaluate their choices and take steps towards healthier living.
I acknowledge its importance in shedding light on a significant health issue. While it may not resonate with every individual, the book acts as a alarm for awareness and personal exploration. Let this book be the catalyst that sparks your journey towards a healthier, more informed lifestyle.
Prepare to be both alarmed and empowered as you dive into Fatal Conveniences. Olien's thought-provoking insights and compelling recommendations offer a crucial perspective on the hidden hazards that jeopardize our well-being. Embrace this opportunity to make simple changes that can have a profound impact on your health and the well-being of those around you.
4.0/5
August 29, 2023
Loved all the substitutions at the end. Also liked the DIY options as well as the approved brands for organic/nontoxic items
July 15, 2023
Fatal Conveniences is one of the few books I considered necessary to buy in hard copy.
I highlighted so much important and helpful information in the e-book that I basically ended up highlighting the whole book. At which point, GR put their foot down and refused to post any
of my highlights. Can't blame them.
The meta-research Olien presents is compelling. The DIY steps and advice he provides to reduce the
bioaccumulation of toxic chemicals in your body, your family, your house, your neighborhood, our air, our food, our water, and our earth are helpful, inspiring and do-able.
So, yeah, hard copy purchased. It is an invaluable reference which I will refer to regularly. It is a life changer. For the better.
And Mr. Olien, I hope you will write sequels. I'm sure you have more eye-opening facts and helpful insights and advice to share.
People always ask when faced with seeming insurmountable problems, what can one person do.
He tells you. And it's not that hard - because the author did all the hard work to make it easy for the rest of us. If a lot of individuals act to save their health and this planet, it could actually get done.
Thank you Darin Olien. You're a true hero.
I highlighted so much important and helpful information in the e-book that I basically ended up highlighting the whole book. At which point, GR put their foot down and refused to post any
of my highlights. Can't blame them.
The meta-research Olien presents is compelling. The DIY steps and advice he provides to reduce the
bioaccumulation of toxic chemicals in your body, your family, your house, your neighborhood, our air, our food, our water, and our earth are helpful, inspiring and do-able.
So, yeah, hard copy purchased. It is an invaluable reference which I will refer to regularly. It is a life changer. For the better.
And Mr. Olien, I hope you will write sequels. I'm sure you have more eye-opening facts and helpful insights and advice to share.
People always ask when faced with seeming insurmountable problems, what can one person do.
He tells you. And it's not that hard - because the author did all the hard work to make it easy for the rest of us. If a lot of individuals act to save their health and this planet, it could actually get done.
Thank you Darin Olien. You're a true hero.
April 9, 2024
The author is that guy at the party who can ruin a good conversation. The basics of this book are that everything is going to kill you. Wearing jeans, taking a shower, not being ashy, cleaning your house, your cell phone, the food you purchase, air conditioning... you name it, it will kill you. Unfortunately, the author does not give much voice to how expensive or how far out of reach this can be for someone to make resource changes. Also, some of the topics have informative solutions, and others are just speculative venting. At times, the book comes across as if you met that odd guy at Starbucks and he trauma dumps on you how everything is out to get you.
May 25, 2023
I really wanted to enjoy this one...While the author provides solid information on underlying and toxic ingredients in just about everything we consume and utilize, the delivery method was so full of fear mongering and resolutions that are just not attainable for the average human. I fully support informing the general public of the risks that are not widely known in our environments and making changes to less toxic and more eco friendly products, I can't help feeling like there are better ways to promote the healthy lifestyle shifts than admonishing all things convenient all the time.
November 14, 2023
I really wanted to give this book 5 stars as the contents is what my career is based on. However, I didn’t feel that the book itself had enough credit, or merit. Don’t get me wrong, a lot of research has been ploughed into it, but some of the recommendations are false. For example, under the sunscreen alternatives, they list SunBum as a brand that is eco-friendly and a good alternative because it is self-proclaimed as ‘reef-safe’. I’m a marine chemical biologist investigating this very problem: the effects of sunscreen and chemicals on the marine environment and their effect on marine biota and can wholeheartedly say that the current formulas used by SumBum are not reef-friendly and are not good for the environment. They use UV filters that have been proven to cause terrible biological effects on aquatic organisms, as well as being proven to bioaccumulate within the food-chain.
Therefore, on this basis I just don’t think the credibility is there as I don’t believe enough ‘fact-checking’ has taken place. At the end of the day this book is a facilitator to help the general public make the right INFORMED decisions when purchasing products - so the information needs to be correct. This could have just been an oversight, but I feel it was an oversight that should have been picked up.
I also really disliked the fact that there were no references. He referred to lots and lots of publications, but provided no reference for you to then go and check it out, which to me is very poor writing and publishing and again completely diminishes the credibility. I appreciate this book is intended for the layperson, but there is no harm in providing a numerical citation system so the citations don’t break up the readability.
In saying that, this book is absolutely fantastic for the general public to review and reflect on their purchasing habits, particularly for items they probably don’t even think about.
If you are unsure of whether this book is for you, Olien’s final comments on page 212 really summarises what this book is about extremely well. The final thoughts were my favourite part of this book, he hits the nail on the head and speaks the truth.
This book is definitely worth the read, and will truly open your eyes to what toxic chemicals you are being exposed to every single day, sometimes at no fault of your own.
Therefore, on this basis I just don’t think the credibility is there as I don’t believe enough ‘fact-checking’ has taken place. At the end of the day this book is a facilitator to help the general public make the right INFORMED decisions when purchasing products - so the information needs to be correct. This could have just been an oversight, but I feel it was an oversight that should have been picked up.
I also really disliked the fact that there were no references. He referred to lots and lots of publications, but provided no reference for you to then go and check it out, which to me is very poor writing and publishing and again completely diminishes the credibility. I appreciate this book is intended for the layperson, but there is no harm in providing a numerical citation system so the citations don’t break up the readability.
In saying that, this book is absolutely fantastic for the general public to review and reflect on their purchasing habits, particularly for items they probably don’t even think about.
If you are unsure of whether this book is for you, Olien’s final comments on page 212 really summarises what this book is about extremely well. The final thoughts were my favourite part of this book, he hits the nail on the head and speaks the truth.
This book is definitely worth the read, and will truly open your eyes to what toxic chemicals you are being exposed to every single day, sometimes at no fault of your own.
December 30, 2024
Ever try to read or interpret the polysyllabic micro-fonted mumbo-jumbo ingredient list on the back of your mascara, soup, or toilet bowl cleaner? If not—good! Cuz that’s exactly what the corporations are hoping you’d say. 🙄
Fatal Conveniences is a wake-up call to the hidden dangers in everyday products and practices. Short of packing up and moving back to the Garden of Eden, it’s hard to see how we can completely avoid the “forever chemicals,” lead, corn syrups, and synthetic “parfums” that seem to infiltrate everything we eat, drink, or apply to our bodies.
Darin does his best to break down these hazards and offers practical advice on how to minimize exposure, but honestly—yikes. It’s unsettling to think about how much of this is allowed to continue unchecked. There’s a strong sense that the government isn’t prioritizing public safety as much as it should, seemingly favoring corporate profits over consumer protection.
That said, the book is packed with useful tips, so listen up, read, and take notes. The freakout factor is high with this one, but it’s an important resource for anyone looking to make safer, more informed choices.
Fatal Conveniences is a wake-up call to the hidden dangers in everyday products and practices. Short of packing up and moving back to the Garden of Eden, it’s hard to see how we can completely avoid the “forever chemicals,” lead, corn syrups, and synthetic “parfums” that seem to infiltrate everything we eat, drink, or apply to our bodies.
Darin does his best to break down these hazards and offers practical advice on how to minimize exposure, but honestly—yikes. It’s unsettling to think about how much of this is allowed to continue unchecked. There’s a strong sense that the government isn’t prioritizing public safety as much as it should, seemingly favoring corporate profits over consumer protection.
That said, the book is packed with useful tips, so listen up, read, and take notes. The freakout factor is high with this one, but it’s an important resource for anyone looking to make safer, more informed choices.
January 29, 2024
So many of the conveniences we use in everyday life may be causing us harm. This book is an amazing introduction for people interested in learning more about non-toxic living.
The author does a great job of interweaving history and personal experience throughout the book.
This is a great resource book that I know I will be reaching for as I transition products in and out of my life. He even has DIY recipes at the end that are more natural for you to make at home as well as specific product recommendations.
The author does a great job of interweaving history and personal experience throughout the book.
This is a great resource book that I know I will be reaching for as I transition products in and out of my life. He even has DIY recipes at the end that are more natural for you to make at home as well as specific product recommendations.
January 3, 2024
Awesome book on the awareness of everyday conveniences and the impact that they have on your life long-term. A great view into the environment and yourself as one and the same and how to make smarter decisions based on that!
March 26, 2024
Lots of good information to make everyone aware of the everyday toxins that affect us daily.
April 3, 2024
Alternative title: everything is killing you.
July 15, 2023
In this book author Darin Olien presents a thought-provoking exploration of the hidden dangers lurking in our everyday products and practices. Drawing on his extensive research and experience in studying medicinal plants and toxic substances, Olien introduces the concept of "fatal conveniences" – those seemingly harmless items that are actually detrimental to our health and the planet.
With passion and urgency, Olien exposes the detrimental effects of common household items, from deodorants and cosmetics to cell phones and crayons. He convincingly argues that these conveniences, which society often touts as necessary and safe, are wreaking havoc on our well-being and the environment. Backed by 20 researchers and scientific papers, Olien provides a comprehensive examination of the environmental toxins present in these products and their alarming impact on our health.
The strength of this book lies in Olien's ability to present compelling evidence while offering practical alternatives. The book not only raises awareness but also empowers readers to make informed choices for themselves and their families. With a dedicated section highlighting healthier alternatives, Olien demonstrates that safer and more sustainable options are readily available.
Furthermore, Olien's personal connection to the subject matter adds an emotional depth to the narrative. Inspired by his father's struggle with chemical sensitivity, the author takes readers on a journey that is both informative and heartfelt. By sharing his family's experiences, Olien fosters a sense of empathy and underscores the importance of taking action to protect our health and the planet.
While some readers may initially question the validity of Olien's claims, the substantial research and scientific backing provide credibility to his arguments. The book serves as a wake-up call, urging us to reevaluate our daily choices and consider the potential harm posed by seemingly innocuous products
With passion and urgency, Olien exposes the detrimental effects of common household items, from deodorants and cosmetics to cell phones and crayons. He convincingly argues that these conveniences, which society often touts as necessary and safe, are wreaking havoc on our well-being and the environment. Backed by 20 researchers and scientific papers, Olien provides a comprehensive examination of the environmental toxins present in these products and their alarming impact on our health.
The strength of this book lies in Olien's ability to present compelling evidence while offering practical alternatives. The book not only raises awareness but also empowers readers to make informed choices for themselves and their families. With a dedicated section highlighting healthier alternatives, Olien demonstrates that safer and more sustainable options are readily available.
Furthermore, Olien's personal connection to the subject matter adds an emotional depth to the narrative. Inspired by his father's struggle with chemical sensitivity, the author takes readers on a journey that is both informative and heartfelt. By sharing his family's experiences, Olien fosters a sense of empathy and underscores the importance of taking action to protect our health and the planet.
While some readers may initially question the validity of Olien's claims, the substantial research and scientific backing provide credibility to his arguments. The book serves as a wake-up call, urging us to reevaluate our daily choices and consider the potential harm posed by seemingly innocuous products
February 21, 2025
Nice if you are a complete beginner at topics like sustainability or how chemicals can harm us but if you are already deep into these topics like me, it will not give you much new to go with except some nice recipes for deodorant and stuff like that. Some nice alternatives which you could also find online. So get it if you are completely new to this kind of things. Otherwise it most likely will be a waste of your time.
October 21, 2023
Fatal Conveniences as the title reads is an insightful and informative read from author Darin Olien. Let me start with the cover page that is in red, which marks danger. The author has chosen it to indicate that the world is heading towards danger at an alarming rate with no clue given to us.
The book covers almost all the products that one uses in our day today life. I like the author's way of explaining. He first let's the reader know what the product he's talking about is, next is the ill effects it spills on humans and environment and finally what we should do? This gives a clear picture of what we are using and how it is all set to harm us. Throughout the book, the author goes on to suggest healthy alternatives that can be replaced in place of these Fatal Conveniences.
Overall a must read book that is an eye opener for the present generation....
The book covers almost all the products that one uses in our day today life. I like the author's way of explaining. He first let's the reader know what the product he's talking about is, next is the ill effects it spills on humans and environment and finally what we should do? This gives a clear picture of what we are using and how it is all set to harm us. Throughout the book, the author goes on to suggest healthy alternatives that can be replaced in place of these Fatal Conveniences.
Overall a must read book that is an eye opener for the present generation....
July 17, 2024
I thought this was a good general overview of the broken system we live in regarding the products we buy and how they negatively impact people + planet. The range of topics covered was ambitious and fell flat to me after finding a few misleading statements and factually incorrect pieces of information (ex. That “pthalates, parabens, and bisphenols are PFAS chemicals” - they aren’t, and that distinction should have been made to avoid confusion). I felt that due to the range of topics, a lot of generalizations were made, and that plus the relative lack of cited sources disillusioned me (hence why it took me so long to finish)! Despite my critiques, I do think this was a worthwhile read that made me more cognizant of the thousands of chemicals with which I come into contact every day and gave me insight into what swaps I can make to better my health and my ecological footprint!
December 8, 2024
I didn’t mind this book, but I also didn’t enjoy it.
I listened to it, which I think was part of the problem. It was hard to focus and retain the information of the narrator. It may have been more helpful to have a physical copy to actually see the names of the harmful substances he talks about.
I also feel like this book filled me with a lot of anxiety about every product. The author mentions many times that this book is meant to educate the consumer, but man I feel like essentially everything on the market is basically harming me and dooming my future…
I do think it was very informational and definitely got me thinking about healthier switches and alternatives that I can start to look into. I just didn’t really enjoy listening.
I listened to it, which I think was part of the problem. It was hard to focus and retain the information of the narrator. It may have been more helpful to have a physical copy to actually see the names of the harmful substances he talks about.
I also feel like this book filled me with a lot of anxiety about every product. The author mentions many times that this book is meant to educate the consumer, but man I feel like essentially everything on the market is basically harming me and dooming my future…
I do think it was very informational and definitely got me thinking about healthier switches and alternatives that I can start to look into. I just didn’t really enjoy listening.
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