I recently read an article from my local Wellness magazine, Conscious Choice, which gave me the boost I needed to really give natural deodorants a true try. I had explored natural deodorants in the past, but only half-heartedly, secretly convinced that there was no way they could give me the same “assurance and protection” that say Secret did. Besides this, I wasn’t knowledgeable enough about the body or about the dangers of chemical buildup within the body to really be concerned. Seeing this article now though, after I’ve had occasion to study the body and understand it’s mechanisms, has really impressed upon me the need to give natural deodorants a fairer trial this time around.

The Conscious Choice article talks about a study done by a Chicago allergist, Kris McGrath, that points in the direction of deodorants and shaving being a combo cause of breast cancer. I have heard this argument before and can definitely see the validity of it. Deodorants are generally made of many chemicals that, even in small quantities, can be toxic to your system. The theory is that these can accumulate in your breast tissue by absorbing through your pores and especially the nicks made from shaving. This Chicago allergist is convinced that this is the most likely reason for the inexplicable rise in breast cancer in recent years.

There are scientist who adamantly disagree with McGrath and in fact there was a study done years before his which leads one to believe that there is no correlation between deodorant or antiperspirant use and breast cancer and that shaving has no effect either. I personally am of the belief though that if there is a more natural, less health-risky way to take care of body odor, why not go with it. Our true concern after all is maintaining a pleasant odor and if that can be accomplished without compromising one’s health, I believe it is the way to go.

I, in fact, believe that maintaining a pleasant body odor begins way before the deodorant or antiperspirant one uses and instead starts with what you feed your body and how you generally care for your body. Sweating, among other things, is a process by which your body eliminates toxins and waste. When your body’s systems are working in good order and you are consuming “whole, healthy” foods within a balanced (for you) diet, the sweat your body produces is generally non-offensive and easily dissipates without much issue. When your sweat gets beyond this point, the thing to look for is not necessarily a stronger deodorant, but for a change in your diet and health habits.

All this said, I still like the idea of deodorant and wanted to find one to rival my beloved Secret, since I now was convinced it was time to go that route. So far, I have had good success with Tom’s of Maine’s brand, which can be found in most health food/natural products stores and even online through Amazon. I’m a dancer and so I’ve been able to put it to ultimate tests, using it for performances and all night dancing excursions, and I must say that I’ve been very pleased with how it’s held up.

So, I would say to you, it’s definitely worth it to give natural deodorants a try. With all the potential hazards your body is bombarded with daily, it’s well worth it to do what you can to not add extra hazards if you can avoid it. So for your health, please do give one a try – at least once!