Toddlers have up to 96 toxic chemicals in their bodies

What are we doing to our children?  They already have up to 96 different harmful toxic pollutants and chemicals in their bodies by the time they reach the age of four.

These chemicals—which come from everyday objects, such as packaging, toys and toiletries—could be affecting their development and cause learning problems later on.

Urine samples taken from 201 toddlers aged from two to four years revealed they had up to 96 different chemicals in their bodies, many of which are linked to hormone and brain disruption, researchers from University of California’s Davis Health have discovered.

Their study found 96 chemicals were in at least five children, 48 chemicals were found in over half of the children, and 34 chemicals were detected in more than 90 percent of the children, including nine chemicals not currently tracked in national health surveys like the US’s National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

The researchers looked for childhood exposure to common environmental chemicals, including phthalates and phthalate alternatives used in plastics like toys and food packaging, as well as personal care products and household items; parabens commonly used in cosmetics, lotions, shampoos and pharmaceuticals; and bisphenols found in plastic containers.

Children are exposed to these environmental chemicals through everyday activities, such as eating, drinking, breathing indoor and outdoor air and touching contaminated surfaces.

Although it is impossible to avoid all chemicals and pollutants, parents can help reduce their child’s exposure by following a few simple guidelines, the researchers say.  These include choosing products that are “phthalate-free,” “paraben-free” and “fragrance-free” labels; avoiding plastics labeled #3, #6, and #7, as these may contain BPA or similar chemicals; wash hands frequently, especially before eating; ventilate the home and use HEPA filters, when possible; and avoid pesticide exposure by washing produce thoroughly before eating.

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