Green Steps | BPA & Phthalates ... should we still be worried?

We've all heard of Bisphenol-A (BPA) and phthalates - those chemicals that wreak havoc on the health of our families.  The question we need to ask ourselves is - with so much attention already directed on these chemicals, do we still need to be worried?

BPA and phthalates can be found pretty much anywhere, so unfortunately the answer is yes.  But the good news is that there are some pretty simple steps you can take to minimize your exposure. 

Some simple ways to limit exposure to BPA:

• Replace polycarbonate bottles (baby bottles, water bottles).  Luckily, there are lots of options available.  You can choose glass, stainless steel, or BPA-free plastic.
• Choose food containers made from glass, stainless steel, or BPA-free plastic.
• Don't heat food in plastic regardless of BPA-free plastic or not.
• Avoid microwaving or adding hot foods or beverages in plastic.
• Avoid canned foods as well as canned pre-made baby formula - these cans typically use a protective liner made of BPA-based epoxy.  Instead, if formula feeding, opt for powdered baby formula and choose fresh or frozen food whenever possible.
• Skip getting fillings or dental work done while pregnant or nursing.
• Always wash hands after handling money and prior to eating.

Ways to avoid phthalates:

• Eliminate teethers, bibs, place mats, and shower curtains made with PVC and replace with safer alternatives.
• Choose personal care products that are labeled phthalate-free.  Double check ingredient lists to make sure they don't contain diethyl phthalate (DEP), Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), and dibutyl phthalate (DBP).
• Same with household cleaning products - plant-based, unscented products are good options or you can make your own cleaning supplies using vinegar and baking soda.
• Avoid scented candles and air fresheners since many of them often use phthalates to give them their fragrance.
• Choose plastic wrap and bags made of polyethylene instead of vinyl.
• Toys today should already be manufactured without the use of the offending phthalates but check the ones you already own since they may have been made prior to the ban.
• Avoid products or packaging marked with #3 recycling code, V or PVC.

It's overwhelming to stay on top of it all so I choose to eliminate the culprits from things that impact my family directly.  Since I have young kids, that meant I was super cautious about choosing items that go into their mouths (bottles, sippy cups, teethers), on their skin (shampoos, soaps, lotions, sunscreen), and things that could emit harmful fumes in the air around them (yup, no more scented chandles or air fresheners in our house).  It's all about not being overwhelmed and making small and simple changes.