Healthy Kids, Healthy Home: Reducing Toxic Exposure
The harmful effects of toxins on the developing brain became evident through tragic environmental incidents.
In the early 1900s, during an outbreak of lead poisoning in Queensland, Australia, children suffered from severe anemia, paralysis in their legs, and loss of sight, with many fatalities resulting from exposure to lead in paint.
In fact, in the 1950s, in a Japanese fishing village near Minamata Bay, children born to mothers who consumed mercury-polluted fish displayed profound motor impairments and cognitive delays.
It is important to understand that toxic substances can have detrimental effects on various bodily systems, and prolonged exposure to toxins can lead to chronic health conditions such as allergies, asthma, cancer, and neurological disorders.
Learning about common toxins in everyday products and understanding their potential health risks can help you and your children make informed decisions about reducing exposure. In this blog post, we'll explore practical tips for reducing exposure in your home.
Toxins in Food? Follow the Dirty Dozen / Clean Fifteen
Glyphosate is the most common herbicide used worldwide in both residential and agricultural settings. Recent studies have raised concerns about its potential health effects. The World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies glyphosate as probably carcinogenic to humans, based on some human research. Additionally, glyphosate is considered an endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC), which could potentially interfere with hormone function and organ development. Reducing exposure to such chemicals is particularly important for children, as hormonal imbalances and developmental issues can impact their overall health and development.
To reduce exposure to glyphosate:
- Avoid using glyphosate-based weed killers.
- Wash produce thoroughly.
- Choose organic options when possible.
- Wash hands before eating and after outdoor activities.
The Clean Fifteen and Dirty Dozen are lists published annually by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) that highlight fruits and vegetables with the highest and lowest pesticide residues. These lists were created to help consumers reduce their pesticide exposure by identifying which produce items carry the most and least pesticide contamination.
Try to opt for organic varieties of produce listed on the Dirty Dozen to reduce exposure to pesticides, while conventionally grown produce from the Clean Fifteen may be safer choices.
According to the 2024 EWG, strawberries are the most contaminated with pesticide residues such as thiophanate-methyl and carbendazim that are linked to cancer and reproductive damage, respectively.
- Visit this link to view Environmental Working Group’s 2024 Shopper’s Guide on the Dirty Dozen: https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/dirty-dozen.php
According to the 2024 EWG, avocados had the lowest amount of pesticide residues.
- Visit this link to view the Environmental Working Group’s 2024 Shopper’s Guide on the Clean Fifteen: https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/clean-fifteen.php
Washing Produce Properly
According to the CDC, DDT (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane) was once widely used to control disease-carrying insects like those that transmit malaria. Now, DDE and DDD, chemicals related to DDT, are commonly found in produce such as spinach, strawberries, bell peppers, and cucumbers, according to the FDA Total Diet Study.
The Canadian Institute of Food Safety, the FDA, and the Center for Disease Control recommend the following ways to wash your produce properly:
- Start by washing your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds, and remove any damaged or bruised areas from produce before washing.
- Rinse all produce under running water, scrub firm produce with a brush, and dry with a clean towel to prevent cross-contamination.
Detergent
In a study by Ale et al. and Draize et al, researchers found that sodium lauryl sulfate, a very common component of detergents that causes it to foam and remove dirt/oils, was linked to damaging the dermal barrier which caused roughening of the skin, dryness, and erythroderma upon further study.
Given these findings about the harmful effects of sodium lauryl sulfate on skin health, it is advisable to opt for natural cleaning products and detergents that are free from harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances.
Take a look at EWG’s Guide to Healthy Cleaning for more insight into which detergents may or may not be harmful for you and your family: https://www.ewg.org/cleaners/
Candles
Research by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on the pollutants released from candles indicates that it can emit benzene and toluene—both recognized as carcinogens by the American Lung Association—as well as particulate matter. The concentrations of these contaminants could potentially present risks to human health, according to the Indoor Air Quality guidelines.
Additionally, candles and fragrances are known endocrine disruptors, which can interfere with hormone function. Studies have shown that chemicals such as phthalates, commonly used in fragrances, can mimic or block hormones and disrupt the body's normal functions.
Given these concerns, it is advisable to choose soy or beeswax candles as they are mostly non-toxic and eco-friendly.
Plastics
Plastics–plastic containers, plastic water bottles–are commonly used in everyday life and contain chemicals such as Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, but what harm do they pose on our health?
A study by Erler and Novak in 2010 concluded that many plastics, produced using large amounts of BPA and phthalates, resulted in abnormal hormone production, which can disrupt the endocrine system and lead to various health issues. These abnormalities also included issues with sperm production in males and oocytes in females, potentially affecting fertility and reproductive health. This is particularly concerning for children, as their developing bodies are more susceptible to endocrine disruptors
To minimize exposure, try to avoid cooking on plastic cutting boards. Heat and knife cuts can cause these chemicals to leach into food, especially when hot foods are placed on them or they are exposed to high temperatures. Research indicates that chopping on plastic cutting boards releases microplastics into food, with a 2023 study finding between 1,536 and 7,680 plastic particles per use. These microplastics can enter the human body and have been found in the bloodstream and lungs, potentially causing digestive, respiratory, and endocrine system issues.
To reduce these risks, try to opt for cutting boards made of bamboo, which are safer and more environmentally friendly. These materials are not only gentler on knives but also naturally absorb less liquid and bacteria, making them a healthier choice for food preparation.
So, minimize the use of plastics, especially those containing BPA and phthalates, which can leach into food and water.
Teflon
Avoid non-stick cookware coated with Teflon (Polytetrafluoroethylene), a chemical that acts to make pans non-stick, as overheating can release toxic fumes.
Systematic research by Sajid et al concluded that the teflon released toxic gases such as TFE (animal carcinogen) and MFA (lethal to humans at low doses) when heated, which can cause acute lung injury.
Instead, consider cast iron or copper pans that last longer and are better for your health and the environment!
Takeaway
By understanding the impact of toxicity on the body and taking proactive steps to minimize exposure in your home, you can help safeguard your health and the health of your loved ones. Incorporate these tips into your daily routine to create a safer and healthier living environment for everyone.
