In this episode of the Believe Big Podcast, we dive deep into the world of functional medicine, holistic nutrition, and environmental toxin elimination with Caitlin Fierro, founder of Non-Toxic Homes. Caitlin shares her powerful health journey—from struggling with autoimmune disease and ineffective conventional treatments to transforming her well-being in just four months through functional health practices.

She offers practical, science-backed strategies to reduce toxic exposure in your home, improve gut health, and make informed choices about food, water, and personal care products. Whether you’re battling illness, looking to optimize your health, or simply wanting to create a cleaner environment for your family, this episode is packed with invaluable insights.

You Are Not Your Diagnosis

One of Caitlin’s core messages is a mindset shift:

“You are not your diagnosis.”

Many people accept a diagnosis as their identity, limiting their healing potential. Western medicine often presents only two options—medication or surgery—but functional and integrative medicine offer a broader spectrum of healing approaches.

Caitlin’s Health Journey: A Turning Point

Despite following a strict gluten-free diet after her celiac disease diagnosis, Caitlin continued to suffer from gut issues, inflammation, hormonal imbalances, and anxiety. After years of frustration and countless doctor visits, she reached a breaking point.

“I was at an allergist about to undergo 80 skin pricks when he told me, These tests aren’t very accurate. I broke down in tears, questioning everything.”

Then, she was introduced to a naturopathic doctor, an experience that changed her life. Unlike rushed 15-minute appointments, her first visit lasted two hours, diving deep into her birth history, gut health, and nutrition. Within four months, she was free from the symptoms that had plagued her for years.

The 3 Key Steps to Gut Healing

Caitlin attributes her rapid recovery to three essential changes:

1️⃣ Comprehensive Gut Testing

Functional medicine uses stool testing to analyze gut bacteria, pathogens, parasites, and fungal overgrowth—providing a roadmap for healing.

2️⃣ A Truly Clean Diet

Many “gluten-free” products are loaded with preservatives and additives that harm gut health. Caitlin learned to read labels carefully and eliminated processed foods.

3️⃣ Targeted Supplementation

Using functional testing, she identified specific nutrient deficiencies and used supplements strategically—rather than randomly guessing.

The Hidden Dangers of Environmental Toxins

Environmental toxins contribute to infertility, cancer, autoimmune diseases, thyroid dysfunction, and respiratory issues. Shockingly, in the U.S.:

• 11,000+ chemicals are allowed in personal care products.
• Less than 1% of these have been tested for human safety.
• 90-95% of cancers are linked to environmental factors and lifestyle—not genetics.

“We can’t avoid all toxins, but we CAN control our home environment.”

Top 3 Ways to Reduce Toxins in Your Home

Caitlin recommends starting with three key areas:

1. Water Filtration

Tap water is often contaminated with heavy metals, fluoride, and microplastics. Consider:

• Whole-home water filtration systems
• Under-the-sink filters (e.g., Clearly Filtered)
• Filtered water bottles for travel

2. Air Quality Improvement

Indoor air is often more polluted than outdoor air!

• Use HEPA air filters in high-traffic rooms.
• Clean air ducts annually.
• No shoes indoors (shoes track in pesticides, bacteria, and allergens).
• Add indoor plants for natural air purification.

3. Ditch Toxic Cleaning & Personal Care Products

• Switch to enzymatic, plant-based cleaning products.
• Avoid fragrance, parabens, and phthalates.
• Brands to trust: Branch Basics, Root Splendor, Blueland, Aunt Fannie’s.

Fragrance: The Hidden Toxin in Your Home

Most commercial candles, air fresheners, and perfumes contain up to 3,000 undisclosed chemicals—many of which are carcinogens and endocrine disruptors.

Instead, try:
✔ Simmer pots (boiling citrus, cinnamon, and herbs in water) 
✔ Fontana Candles (100% non-toxic & handcrafted)

Toxic Furniture & Clothing: What to Avoid

Many home products off-gas harmful chemicals into the air for years.

Avoid These Materials:

• Polyurethane foam (found in mattresses & sofas)
• Flame retardants
• Phthalates & benzene
• Standard paints (opt for zero-VOC paint like Clare Paint)

Biggest Investment? A non-toxic organic mattress—since you spend 1/3 of your life sleeping!

Hidden Toxins in Clothing

Most athleisure wear contains PFAs (forever chemicals), which are absorbed through the skin. Start small:
✔ Swap to organic cotton socks & underwear.
✔ Look for non-toxic brands like Pact & Make The Label.

The Power of Small, Intentional Changes

“You don’t have to overhaul everything at once. Start with one small change each month, and by the end of the year, your home will be drastically healthier.”

Caitlin encourages people to simplify rather than swap—reducing the number of products you use overall.

Caitlin’s journey is proof that healing is possible when we address the root causes of illness. By reducing environmental toxins, improving gut health, and embracing functional medicine, we can reclaim our health—one step at a time.

📌 Want to learn more?

• Explore Caitlin’s work at Non-Toxic Homes.
• Check out our affiliate links for our favorite clean products.
• Try Ivelisse’s DIY tallow cream recipe for a chemical-free skincare alternative!

Learn more about Caitlin Fierro on her website:

Non-Toxic Homes

Suggested Resources:

• Non-Toxic Homes – Blog
• Clearly Filtered (water filtration system)
• Environmental Working Group (EWG)
• Branch Basics – clean cleaning products
• Root & Splendor – laundry detergent
• Blueland – eco-friendly cleaning products
• Aunt Fannie’s – natural cleaning agents
• Freddie – laundry detergent sheets
• Fontana Candles – non-toxic home scents
• Clare Paint – zero VOC interior paint
• Pact – organic cotton clothing
• Mate the Label – organic clothing
• Wooly – merino wool clothing
• The Kitchen Today (tallow) – how to purify beef tallow

Send us a text

Your donations power our podcast’s mission to support cancer patients with hope, insights, and resources. Every contribution fuels our ability to uplift and empower. Join us in making a lasting impact. Donate now! 🌟

Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and inner healing? Dive into these seven transformative soul care principles that will revolutionize your perspective and lead you to a deeper understanding of yourself and your relationship with God.

1. Identity: Building a Firm Foundation
   Discover the power of your beliefs about yourself. Understand how a faulty foundation can lead to cracks in your soul. Learn from personal experiences how shifting your focus from changing others to changing yourself can bring about profound growth.
2. Repentance: Embracing Good News
   Explore the true meaning of repentance and its role in realigning yourself with God. Understand how repentance is not about condemnation but about restoration and experiencing the refreshing flow of God’s life.
3. Overcoming Shame: Walking in the Light
   Recognize the difference between shame and unconfessed sin. Learn how shame affects our identity and relationships. Discover the power of vulnerability and authentic community in breaking free from the grip of shame.
4. Embracing Forgiveness: Unlocking Freedom
   Understand the liberating power of forgiveness, both receiving and extending it. Experience the healing journey of letting go of bitterness and resentment, embracing freedom and wholeness.
5. Renewing the Mind: Transforming Thoughts
   Explore the connection between thoughts, feelings, and actions. Learn practical steps to identify and challenge negative thought patterns, replacing them with truth and life-giving beliefs.
6. Living in Surrender: Trusting God’s Plan
   Explore the beauty of surrendering control and trusting in God’s sovereignty. Learn to let go of fear and anxiety, finding peace in surrendering to God’s perfect plan for your life.
7. Cultivating Gratitude: Nurturing Joy
   Discover the transformative power of gratitude in shifting perspective and cultivating joy. Practice gratitude as a daily discipline, unlocking the abundance of blessings in every moment.

Embark on a journey of self-discovery and inner healing with these seven soul care principles. Transform your life from the inside out and experience the abundant life God has designed for you.

Start your journey today! 🌟Listen to the full episode below with Dr. Rob Reimer:

Your donations power our podcast’s mission to support cancer patients with hope, insights, and resources. Every contribution fuels our ability to uplift and empower. Join us in making a lasting impact. Donate now! 🌟

When it comes to staying hydrated, many of us reach for sparkling water. It’s refreshing, often delicious, and can be a fun alternative to plain water. However, recent reports about popular seltzer brands containing high levels of PFAS chemicals have raised significant health concerns.

PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are often referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment and the human body. These substances have been linked to various health issues, including fertility problems, thyroid issues, cancer, and liver damage. They are found in everyday items like waterproof clothing, non-stick cookware, food packaging, and even dental floss.

*Chart from food babe IG 

Despite alarming findings reported in 2021, regulation of PFAS chemicals has been slow. Although the EPA has recently started requiring utility companies to filter out PFAS, these limits are not yet enforced for sparkling water brands.

Environmental advocate and actor Mark Ruffalo has been vocal about the need for stricter regulations, highlighting the industry’s financial motivations for maintaining the status quo. As consumers, it’s crucial to stay informed and choose products that prioritize our health.

For cancer patients, selecting the right sparkling water can be especially important. Here are some brands that have taken significant steps to ensure their products are safe and free from harmful chemicals:

Spindrift
Highlights: Spindrift is a standout for its low PFAS levels (0.19 ppt). Each can lists the real fruit used for flavoring, offering varieties like grapefruit, mango, and the refreshing Nojito flavor (mint and lime). View on amazon.

Sound
Highlights: Sound is one of the few brands reporting zero PFAS levels. Their unique flavors, such as lemon with thyme and white tea, and rose with lime and hibiscus tea, offer a delightful change from the norm. View online.

Waterloo
Highlights: With BPA-free cans and ultra-filtered regional water, Waterloo is a favorite. Each can is sold within 500 miles of its source, emphasizing eco-consciousness alongside taste. View on amazon.

Mountain Valley
Highlights: Known for its non-detectable PFAS levels, Mountain Valley rigorously tests and monitors its sources. Their sparkling water is known for its crisp, satisfying carbonation. View on amazon.

Proud Source
Highlights: Proud Source commits to transparency with annual water quality reports and packages their mineral-rich water in recyclable aluminum bottles, which keep water cooler longer. View on amazon.

Nixie
Highlights: Nixie uses USDA organic ingredients without artificial additives, ensuring pure, flavorful water. Their reverse osmosis filtration effectively removes PFAS chemicals. View on amazon.

San Pellegrino
Highlights: A classic favorite, San Pellegrino maintains low PFAS levels (0.31 ppt). Their Essenza cans offer Mediterranean-inspired flavors that enhance any mocktail. View on amazon.

Aura Bora
Highlights: Filtered through reverse osmosis and free from citric acid, Aura Bora offers unique flavors like mango chili and tangerine blossom in recyclable cans. View on amazon.

DIY Sparkling Water
Highlights: Home sparkling water makers like Sodastream and Ninja Thirsti provide control over water quality and bubble levels. Using charcoal and reverse osmosis filters ensures the cleanest water possible.

Insights from Jess Kelley of the Oncology Nutrition Institute

In a recent podcast episode with Jess Kelley, founder of the Oncology Nutrition Institute, we delved deeper into the importance of hydration for cancer patients. Jess shared invaluable insights on maintaining proper hydration and the critical role it plays in overall health.

Key Takeaways from the Podcast:

Hydration is Crucial: Jess emphasized that water is the “master nutrient,” essential for nearly every biochemical reaction in the body. Proper hydration can significantly impact energy levels, cognitive function, and overall well-being.

Signs of Dehydration: Common signs include fatigue, hunger, mood changes, headaches, and constipation. Jess pointed out that even a 2% loss in hydration can impair physical and mental functions.

Water Quality Matters: It’s not just about drinking enough water but also about ensuring its quality. Jess recommended using reliable filtration systems like reverse osmosis to remove contaminants, including PFAS chemicals.

Balancing Hydration Sources: While sparkling water can be a refreshing treat, Jess advised that the majority of your daily water intake should come from non-carbonated sources. This helps ensure optimal hydration and reduces the risk of mild headaches or other issues associated with carbonated beverages.

Electrolyte Balance: For those engaged in intense physical activity or undergoing treatment that affects hydration levels, adding electrolytes can be beneficial. Jess highlighted brands like LMNT and Trace Minerals for their low-sugar, high-quality electrolyte options.

Practical Tips:

• Start your day with flat water to replenish overnight losses.
• Use herbal teas or infuse water with natural flavors to make it more appealing.
• Monitor your hydration status with at-home urine test strips to ensure you’re staying adequately hydrated.

By integrating these insights and choosing the right sparkling water brands, you can support your health and hydration needs effectively. For more detailed information, listen to our full podcast episode with Jess Kelley.

FAQs to Ask Your Oncologist About Diet and Lifestyle Changes

• What dietary changes can support my treatment and recovery?
• Are there specific foods or beverages I should avoid?
• How can I safely integrate complementary therapies, like mistletoe therapy, into my treatment plan?
• What lifestyle changes can help improve my overall well-being during and after treatment?
• How can I ensure open communication with my healthcare team about incorporating alternative treatments?

These questions can help you explore all available treatment options and ensure that your approach to care is comprehensive and well-informed. Listen to the podcast below to learn more about water.

Your donations power our podcast’s mission to support cancer patients with hope, insights, and resources. Every contribution fuels our ability to uplift and empower. Join us in making a lasting impact. Donate now! 🌟

Source links:
https://www.delish.com/food-news/g44663876/sparkling-water-brands-pfas-chemicals/

https://www.delish.com/food-news/a44566150/pfas-chemicals-sparkling-water-explained/

Are you intrigued by the age-old debate about spiritual forces and their impact on human lives? Dr. Rob Reimer, a seasoned theologian and practitioner, shares profound insights into the realm of demonic influence, drawing from his extensive experience in ministry and deliverance. In this captivating dialogue with Ivelisse Page, they delve into the nuanced understanding of demonic presence, its manifestations, and the pathway to liberation.

Unveiling Demonic Influence: Dr. Reimer vividly recounts his encounter with a young man exhibiting troubling behavior, which led him to confront the reality of demonic presence. This eye-opening experience shattered his preconceived notions and propelled him into a deeper exploration of spiritual warfare.

The Complexities of Deliverance: Through poignant anecdotes and biblical references, Dr. Reimer sheds light on the multifaceted nature of deliverance. He emphasizes the crucial role of repentance, exposing secrets, and breaking curses as foundational steps in the process of spiritual liberation.

Navigating Spiritual Boundaries: Engaging with individuals entrenched in alternative spiritual practices, such as mediumship and occultism, Dr. Reimer exemplifies a compassionate yet discerning approach. By affirming God’s love and truth, he extends a bridge of hope to those ensnared in spiritual darkness.

Discerning Demonic Influence: Addressing common misconceptions, Dr. Reimer clarifies the distinction between demonic possession and influence. He underscores the significance of sin as the primary gateway for demonic entry, cautioning against complacency and emphasizing the need for spiritual vigilance.

Practical Wisdom for Spiritual Warfare: Offering practical advice, Dr. Reimer advises against engaging in practices that compromise spiritual boundaries, such as occult activities and illicit sexual behaviors. He emphasizes the importance of confession, repentance, and seeking deliverance within a supportive community of believers.

Dr. Rob Reimer’s insights provide a compelling framework for understanding and addressing demonic influence from a Christian perspective. By embracing biblical truth, cultivating discernment, and seeking spiritual accountability, individuals can navigate the complexities of spiritual warfare with confidence and resilience.

Intrigued by the discussion? Dive deeper into the exploration of spiritual warfare and deliverance by listening to the full podcast episode here:

🌟 Your Donations Make a Difference! 🙏

Your generosity is the heartbeat of our podcast, allowing us to extend our reach to cancer patients who need it most. With your support, we can provide valuable insights, stories of hope, and crucial resources to those battling cancer.

Every contribution, no matter the size, fuels our mission to uplift, educate, and empower. Your donations ensure that we can continue to create content that touches lives, offers guidance, and brings comfort to individuals and families facing the challenges of cancer.

Together, we are a beacon of support and a source of strength. Thank you for being a vital part of our podcast community. 💪

Donate today and help us make a lasting impact! 💕

As an organization that supports cancer patients and their loved ones, we highly recommend “100 Acts of Love” by Kim Hamer. This book is an incredibly helpful and heartfelt guide for anyone who wants to support a friend or loved one through a cancer diagnosis or loss. This book is based on Hamer’s personal experiences of caring for her husband with cancer and the support she received from her friends. Through practical advice and meaningful insights, she helps readers navigate the ups and downs of a cancer journey. From how to be a good listener to creative ways to show your love and support, “100 Acts of Love” is full of practical tips and thoughtful ideas that will help you be there for your friend in a meaningful way.

What we appreciate most about this book is that it emphasizes the importance of connection and community in times of difficulty. Hamer encourages readers to lean on their own support networks, while also offering guidance on how to build and strengthen those networks during a challenging time. Overall, “100 Acts of Love” is an essential guide for anyone who wants to show their love and support for a friend or loved one dealing with cancer or loss.

Three key takeaways we had after reading it:

1. Small gestures can make a big impact: The book emphasizes that it’s often the little things that matter most when supporting a friend through cancer or loss. From sending a thoughtful text message to making a homemade meal, the book offers many practical suggestions for simple yet meaningful acts of love.

2. Connection and community are crucial: The author emphasizes the importance of building and maintaining strong support networks during times of difficulty. Whether it’s reaching out to family members, joining a support group, or simply spending time with friends, connecting with others can provide much-needed comfort and help alleviate feelings of isolation.

3. It’s okay to not have all the answers: Hamer acknowledges that supporting a friend through cancer or loss can be challenging and that there may not always be easy answers. However, she emphasizes that being present and listening to your friend’s needs is often the most important thing you can do. By showing empathy, compassion, and a willingness to simply be there, you can make a significant difference in your friend’s life.

We highly recommend this book to anyone looking for practical advice, heartfelt encouragement, and inspiration on how to be a good friend and a strong source of support in difficult times. You can find it on amazon: https://amzn.to/40pNzzM

Listen to the podcast episode below where we had the pleasure of speaking with Kim Hamer about the book and these important topics.