Landmark study finds 43 chemicals — some banned — in pregnant women
According to a story recently published By Michael Winter, in USA TODAY
- More than 40 chemicals, including some banned for three decades, were detected in nearly all 268 pregnant women in a landmark study by the University of California-San Francisco. Most of the substances are found in household products.
- The authors say it’s the first time researchers have tallied the number of chemicals to which pregnant women are exposed, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.
- Of the 163 chemicals studied, 43 were detected in the blood and urine of almost every participant in the 2003-2004 study. Their ages ranged from 15 to 44.
- Among the chemicals detected in 99% to 100% of the subjects were such banned substances as cancer-causing PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) and flame retardants containing polybrominated diphenyl ethers, along with organochlorine pesticides, perchlorate and phthalates, compounds found in cosmetics, detergents, vinyl floors, toys, plastic bottles and hundreds of other products.
- Levels were similar to or lower than those found in women who aren’t pregnant but that they were higher in pregnant women when variables were controlled.
How to Reduce your Exposure especially for children
Eating: Eating a well-balanced diet of real foods prepared from basic ingredients at home, wash hands often.
Microwaving: Avoid microwaving food in plastic. Use ceramic or glass instead.
Cleaning: Keep a clean home using microfiber and water or enzyme based products. Toxic chemicals are present in household cleaning products, dust and dirt.
Shopping: Choose products wisely – everything from paints, cleaning supplies to cookware and beauty products. Select safer, nontoxic products.
The research is published in Environmental Health Perspectives.
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