A new parent's guide to heavy metals and persistent chemicals

Exposure to potentially toxic substances that are part of modern life only adds to the many anxieties of parenting. Here’s what action you can take

From strapping zip ties on to cabinets to popping plastic covers into outlets, new parents do what they can to control their newborn’s environment. But beyond the visible, there are more obscure health concerns from additives and contaminants found in unexpected places.

Exposure to our environment begins even before birth. Studies have shown that some chemicals, like PFAS and flame retardants, in everyday products can pass from mother to fetus through the umbilical cord, and after birth through breast milk. Socioeconomic status and race also affect lifetime exposure. Minority and low-income individuals are disproportionately affected by pollution and toxic chemicals.

What can parents do?

Experts say to check pipes at home for lead service lines and filter your tap water. Olga Naidenko, senior science adviser for children’s health at the Environmental Working Group, also suggests the estimated 45 million Americans who drink from private wells to test their water for lead and other contaminants, since there are no legal requirements for private well testing. Lindsay McCormick, chemicals and health project manager at the Environmental Defense Fund, advises parents to contact your local utility to ask about lead pipe installation at your house since water tests aren’t always accurate. To reduce exposure, use a water filtration system certified for lead, always use cold water, and let the water from the tap run for at least five seconds before using, a trick that McCormick says significantly reduced lead levels.

What can parents do?

Taking control of other contaminants, like PFAS, is less straightforward. “PFAS removal systems are much more expensive, and that’s why we need community action so the whole water supply gets treated to remove those kinds of chemicals,” says Naidenko.

What can parents do?

To avoid exposure to BPA replacements, choose glass bottles and food containers. Avoiding phthalates, sometimes called the “everywhere chemical” can be trickier. Avoid plastic food containers when possible and, if you’re using plastic containers to heat food in the microwave, look for the words “microwave-safe”. Read labels and choose products – including lotions, soaps, shampoos and any plastic items – that are “phthalate-free”. Choose unscented cleaning and personal care items since phthalates are often found in fragrance ingredients, which companies aren’t required to disclose.

What can parents do?

Experts advise parents to avoid products with polyurethane foam, which contains flame retardants, and look for natural fibers instead. The EWG recommends an organic crib mattress with a natural covering, like cotton or wool, instead of PVC or vinyl.

What can parents do?

To reduce household dust and the chemicals found in it, clean surfaces frequently. Wet-mopping or vacuuming with a HEPA filter are thought to be most effective. To reduce chemical exposure from cleaning, choose products that are naturally derived and fragrance-free, or stick to baking soda, vinegar and castile soap. Parents can also switch to personal care products that are paraben- and phthalate-free to reduce infant exposure to these endocrine disrupters.

What can parents do?

Consider other pest control methods before resorting to pesticides at home. If you do use pesticides, choose products lowest in toxicity (organizations like the National Pesticide Information Center can help) and keep pets and children off treatment areas for the period listed on the label. Use products with the lowest toxicity if you do need chemical pesticides. Ensure all pesticide-containing products – including disinfecting cleaners, bleach and flea and tick shampoos – are stored out of children’s reach.

What can parents do?

Toxic-Free Future, a research and advocacy group focused on phasing out highly toxic chemicals, is pushing for policymakers and manufacturers to stop the use of flame retardants in nap mats and many other products. In the meantime, the organization advises parents to advocate for stricter standards, check the labels on kid’s products labels and wash hands regularly.

What can parents do?

The AAP advises parents to work with schools and government agencies to encourage the use of less toxic pesticides. The EPA recommends childcare facilities use an “integrated pest management” strategy to reduce the use of toxic pesticides. Some pesticides are restricted for use near schools and childcare facilities by state law.

What can parents do?

McCormick advises parents to simply ask their childcare facility about their lead pipes. “Just demonstrating the interest and creating the demand can prompt childcare facilities to take action.” She also says smaller childcare facilities located in retrofitted homes or churches are more likely to have lead service lines. The EPA also offers a toolkit on lead prevention for childcare providers.

Silent Spring, an independent research and advocacy group, developed a free mobile app, called Detox Me, that draws on 20 years of research for practical advise on everyday chemical reduction.

The University of California San Francisco, a leading research institution on environmental health, also developed a Pediatric Environment Health Toolkit to help parents understand exposure risks and prevention tips. The guide is endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics and other medical organizations.

Healthy Babies, Bright Futures is an alliance of non-profits, scientists and donors that develops programs to reduce babies’ chemical exposure. The group offers guides for parents to limit chemicals in the first few years of a child’s life, beginning before pregnancy.

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from Children | The Guardian http://bit.ly/2LmUKGf