Phthalates and BPA are chemicals we encounter regularly. They are found in plastics, the lining of food cans, food packaging, and fragrances. Studies have shown that phthalates and BPA interfere with brain development, thereby making it critically important for families with young children and women who are pregnant or considering becoming pregnant to do what they can to reduce their exposure.
Early exposure, including exposure in utero, to phthalates has been associated with:
- Inattention
- Hyperactivity
- Aggression
- Conduct problems
- Anxiety
- Lower IQ
- Slowed sensorimotor development
High levels of BPA have been associated with:
- Aggression and/or defiance
- Anxiety and/or depression
- Hyperactivity
- Poor working memory
- Poor emotional regulation
- Social deficits
- Language delays
While it is impossible to avoid phthalates and BPA entirely, here are some ways to reduce your exposure:
- Personal care products: Choose “fragrance free” products (unscented is not the same thing) and steer clear of items containing fragrance, parfum, phthalate, DEP, DPP, or DiBP.
- Water bottles: Choose metal or glass bottles. Never leave plastic water bottles in a hot car.
- Food storage and cooking: Choose fresh food whenever possible, and limit canned foods. Limit packaged food with a high fat content as fat absorbs chemicals. Store hot food in glass containers, and do not microwave foods in plastic containers.
- Receipts: Receipts are covered with BPA which can be absorbed into your blood through your skin. It is best to get digital receipts or wash your hands immediately after handling a paper copy.
- Cleaning: Phthalates and BPA accumulate in house dust, so be sure to keep your floors clean, especially if you have young children who spend time on your floors.
An excellent source to find alternative personal care products is the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Database. It can be found at: https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/
Source: Elli Sellinger
All Blogs are written by Professionals in the fields of Nutrition, Human Development and Diabetes.