Archive for the ‘Reducing Toxins’ Category

Phthlates - What Are They and Where Are They Found

Tuesday, May 20th, 2008

Phthalates - What are they and how are they used?


Phthalates (pronounced “thah-lates”) are chemical plasticizers that have been widely used since the 1950s to soften plastics that would otherwise be brittle and crack when bent. Because phthalates are not chemically bound to the products they appear in, they leach into the atmosphere and into liquids. What then happens is we ingest, inhale and absorb phthalates when exposed to them. This is especially true for products that contain phthalates and are applied directly to skin.

A new University of Washington study that appeared in last February’s Journal of Pediatrics concludes that phthalate exposure in infants is “widespread and variable.” Phthalates have been proven multiple times to disrupt the endocrine and reproductive systems. Many lotions, shampoos and soaps contain phthalates.

Our babies are most vulnerable because they have not developed the maturity and capacity to metabolize these exposures. Young children also put many things (everything!) in their mouths and they play on floors made of synthetic materials.

Sheela Sathyanarayana, an acting assistant professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Washington and lead author of a study that looked at phthalate exposure via baby care products. The younger the baby the greater the concentrations, but a staggering 81% of babies that were exposed to infant care products containing phthalates tested positive for increased urinary concentrations of phthalates. Multiple exposures resulted in the highest concentrations.
Phthalates are found in an amazing array of products. In personal care items, they’re used to help lubricate other substances, help lotions penetrate and soften the skin, and help fragrances last longer. They’re also used in toys, electronics (such as personal computers), car-care products, insecticides, and many household products, including adhesives, plastic wrap, plastic containers, flooring, furniture, wallpaper, shower curtains, and other things made of vinyl or PVC.

Check your labels - here’s a list of the most common phthalates, labels:
• DBP (dibutyl phthalate)
• DNOP (di-n-octyl phthalate)
• DiNP (diisononyl phthalate)
• DEP (diethyl phthalate)
• BBzP (benzyl butyl phthalate)
• DEHP (di 2-ethylhexl phthalate)
• DiDP (diisodecyl phthalate)
• DnHP (di-n-hexyl phthalate)
• DMP (dimethyl phthalate)
• DnOP (di-n-octylphthalate)
• Bisphenol A (BPA) is another plasticizer.

Posted in Reducing Toxins, Toxic Exposure, Young Children, baby care products, chemicals, phthlates | No Comments »

7 Simple Ideas That Will Make Your Family, Home and the Environment Less Toxic

Friday, April 11th, 2008

1) Start a replacement policy for your cosmetic, personal care and cleaning products. When your current products are getting low replace them with safer alternatives. If you are not sure how to find safer products contact your local Affiliate Educator for more information.

2) Start buying organic fruit and veggies where possible. This is especially important for children as they are much more vulnerable to toxic exposures. Local farmers markets are often the most economical way to get fresh organic produce. If you are worried about the cost, cut down on processed foods and bulk up on veggies, it’s cheaper and your body will love you for it! Organic farming uses less water than conventional farming and none of the pesticides that not only poison our food but also contaminate our soil and waterways. Nutritionally organic fruit and veggies are significantly higher in antioxidants and some nutrients.

3) Get rid of the plastic! Whenever you have an option to use alternatives to plastic; do so. This includes bags, toys, and utensils, drinking containers, baby bottles, sippy cups and especially food storage items.

4) Buy recycled products when possible, from toilet paper and serviettes to converting your office to use 100% recycled paper, it all helps.

5) Buy sustainable, organic cotton and hemp clothing when possible. There are more and more companies making this a viable option. For online stores that sell organic baby clothes, blankets, crib pads go to www.ceche.net and look under “CECHE Recommends”.

6) Get rid of those air fresheners and plug in candles! Many of them are neurotoxins and contain formaldehyde.

7) Recycle whenever you can! This includes everything from baby clothes to furniture to wrapping paper.

Posted in Reducing Toxins, Young Children, alternatives to plastic, organic food | No Comments »