Toxic toiletries make children hyper
As a follow up to your toxic toiletries article (WDDTY vol 10 no 7), tell your readers to watch those perfumes used in the home. Air fresheners of all types, spray deodorants, pot pourri, perfumed fabric conditioners, washing powders/liquids and washing up liquids all can have an effect on children's behaviour.
In a recent Hyperactive Children's Support Group survey:
45 per cent of the children had reactions to perfumes
80 per cent had a problem with the colouring in medicines
53 per cent had problems with the preservatives in medicines
58 per cent reacted to coloured toothpaste
41 per cent reacted to coloured bubble bath.
Dr Neil Ward, senior lecturer in the Department of Chemistry, Surrey University, following research, also found a high percentage of hyperactive children reacted to perfumes.
The American Feingold Association finds 51 per cent of their hyperactive/ADHD children have adverse reactions to perfumes. Sally Bunday, Hyperactive Children's Support Group, 71 Whyke Lane, Chichester, Sussex, PO19 2LD