The popular media has seized upon a new study published in February 2008's Pediatrics journal about common additives found in baby products such as shampoos, lotions, baby powder and also baby toys.  These chemical additives - known as phthalates - have been shown repeatedly in studies to be linked to reproductive problems.

The truth is that these findings have been known for years.    Regardless, I will present the dangers of phthalates in baby products and offer some solutions for parents to minimize their risks.   Until the Food and Drug Administration moves on protecting the health of our familes through a long overdue restriction oh phthalates, we must look out for ourselves.  

Research into Phthalates

Phthalates are polymers that are added to products for a number of reasons.  They can soften hard plastic, extend the timespan of perfumes, and help plastics retain color.  They also are quickly absorbed into human skin, which is why they are commonly used in lotions.  

So this toxin is actually designed to be absorbed.  One recent study found that all babies tested for phthalates in their urine were positive, and 80% of these infants had traces of at least seven different kinds of phthalates.  Now, not all phthalates are considered dangerous; unfortunately, they often come together and are unmarked on ingrediant lists.  

One study found reproductive damage in lab animals from phthalates exposure.  Another study suggests that infants with phthalate exposure are at greater risk for reproductive damage later in life.  Yet another study links phthatates to genital malformation in infant boys.   Clearly, the writing is on the wall for this common toxin. 

What Kinds of Baby Products have Phthalates?

These additives are in many commercial lotions, shampoos, and baby powders.   In particular, they are in cosmetic products that have perfumes, dyes, and extra creamy textures.  Phthalates are often found in PVC plastics which are commonly used as colored baby toys like plastic balls and other toys.  If the thought of how often your baby chews on his favorite toy is beginning to alarm you, you are not alone.  

Also, phthalates can be found in a wide array of plastic dishware and serving-savers, as well as baby bottles and pacifiers.  These plastic products shed phthalates when heated, such as in common house-hold activities as heating bottles in the microwave or sterilizing them in the dishwasher. 

Basically, any plastic container marked "recycle #3 and #7" may contain a number of harmful toxins which can be released anytime the plastic is denatured: through heat, sun exposure, or of course, being directly absorbed through the skin in lotions and shampoos, or broken down manually by babies' chewing.   

How to Avoid Phthalates and Other Toxins

• Use only plastics that are marked with the Recycling Code 1, 2 and 5. 
  
• Choose pacifiers and nipples made of latex, silicone or rubber instead of plastic.
  
• Do not microwave or sterilize plastic bottles with the Recycling Code of 3 and 7.
  
• Consider organic lotions and  shampoos for your babies.
• Or look into home remedies for skin protection, such as olive oil and coco butter. 
  

Until the government can regulate the manufacture of these potentially hazardous plastics, we must as consumers look out for ourselves.  Educating parents and community leaders is essential to maintaining the safety of our children.  Support organic baby products and traditional wooden toys . 

And take heart: every time the news media reports on the problem of phthalates, we are one step closer to seeing some real action from our legal policy makers.