A type of chemical called thalates is used to make plastic items and is also used in many different types of cosmetics and toiletry items.A benzene ring bonded to two carboxylic acid groups via the carbon atom in each group is called a phthalate.The chemical can be found in plastic food storage containers, perfume, air fresheners, laundry detergent, and even on plastic toys.The reproductive systems of both males and females have been shown to be damaged by phthalates.Studies show that these side effects can affect an unborn baby.It's a good idea to be aware of where they are and how to reduce your exposure to them.
Step 1: You can choose foods that are low in the chemical.
Scientists were able to come up with a list of foods that are low in phthalates.If you want to reduce your exposure to this chemical, you should focus on these foods.Low-fat milk and yogurt have low levels of phthalates.High fat foods should be avoided as much as possible.pasta, rice and noodles were ranked lower in the grain group.The levels of phthalates in conventional fruits and vegetables were very low; however, this is not the case for conventional canned fruits, vegetables and pickles.Don't eat canned or processed foods.The canned/bottled beverages were found to have low levels of phthalates.The foods that are found to have low levels of phthalates are not completely free of them.
Step 2: It's a good idea to avoid foods with high levels of phthalates.
It's a good idea to be aware of the foods that have high levels of phthalate.If you want to reduce your exposure, stay away from beef, poultry, and pork.There were high levels in the skin of poultry.There are studies that show the phthalate level is lower in frozen meat and poultry.Butter, margarine, cooking oils, and animal fats have high levels of phthalates.Heavy cream, ice cream and cheese had high levels of phthalates.
Step 3: It's a good idea to avoid packaged foods.
Some packaged foods have high levels of phthalates.You may be surprised at the concentration levels of phthalates, so try to avoid these foods.Children are exposed to the highest concentration of phthalates from common packaged goods.It's important to avoid these foods since they have serious effects on infants and children.The scientist believes that part of the reason packaged foods are so high in phthalates is that these chemicals are already present in the food.It is possible to transfer the phthalates from the packaging to the food.Don't eat packaged and processed foods like cereals, crackers, and infant formula.You can make your own versions of yourself and your child's favorite items at home.
Step 4: You can choose 100% organic foods.
Purchasing and eating 100% organic items may be the best way to avoid phthalates, since studies have shown that they are found in many foods.100% organic food is monitored by the USDA.The farmers and manufacturers have to follow a very specific set of guidelines to make sure that their food is not exposed to pesticides or chemicals.Since many synthetic pesticides are sprayed onto fruits and vegetables, make sure to look for produce that's labeled 100% organic.Purchase 100% organic dairy and meat products.DEHP, a toxic phthalate, has been found in certified organic dairy products.Milk is collected from cow's udders on small farms.
Step 5: You can use a water filter.
They are also found in water.It's important to find a way to remove or reduce the amount of phthalates in water since we cook with it.Studies have shown that a water filter can remove phthalates from the water.A basic water purification device, like a water pitcher or a twist-on for your faucet, should be able to remove most phthalates from your drinking water.Some people claim that they can't remove all the phthalates.All phthalates can be removed from your drinking water with a more expensive system.
Step 6: A steel water bottle is a good buy.
It's important to avoid using plastic bottles when transporting water or other liquids since they have high concentrations of phthalates.Consider looking for bottles that are free of harmful chemicals.Many of the water bottles are made out of steel.Make sure you don't put hot liquid into plastic bottles.Other options include containers made of ceramic, glass, or wood to hold and store food and water.If you need to buy bottled water, look for one that says phthalate-free on the label or use your own water.
Step 7: The 2, 4, or 5 recycling codes are on the plastic containers.
It's a good idea to make sure the plastic item you're using is phthalate-free.To find these special codes, make sure to review the whole package.All plastic items have a triangle label.This can be found on the bottom or side of the item.It is listed on the bottom of plastic water bottles.The product has numbers like 3, 6, or 7 listed.Don't purchase it, use it or drink from it.If the numbers listed are 2, 4, or 5, you can be certain that this plastic container or bottle does not contain any harmful chemicals.You could use glass or porcelain food storage containers instead.This makes it easy to find a phthalate-free container.
Step 8: Food should not be cooked in plastic.
When they're heated, the chemicals in plastic containers or bottles can make their way into food and beverages at higher concentrations.These types of plastic should not be heating up.When you get home, take the food out of the plastic containers.Repackage them or cook them right away.Purchase containers that do not contain phthalates or use porcelain containers to store food.If you place plastic in the microwave or oven, don't heat it up in plastic tupperware.Put the foods on a plate to heat them up.Plastic wrap can be used to cover and store food.Foods can be put in a container with aluminum foil.
Step 9: All items have labels.
It's important to read the labels when buying make-up or laundry detergent.You may be able to figure it out.Many companies do promote when they don't use phthalates.Look for the words "phthalate-free" on your products.You should look for wording like "synthetic fragrance" as they are likely to contain phthalates.
Step 10: EWG has a Skin Deep Database.
Many foods, plastic products, cosmetics and household items havethalates in them.It's hard to figure out how to avoid them.The EWG's Skin Deep Database can be used to figure out where harmful chemicals are hiding.This website reviews a variety of chemicals and lists what they're used for, products that contain them and possible side effects from exposure to them.Take a look at the website to see what products you use or own.Take a look at the list of items that are phthalate free.You can use this to replace products you've already purchased.
Step 11: Purchase items with natural fragrances.
Natural or fragrance-free items are an easy way to avoid scented items.This will help limit your exposure.Look for words like "made with only essential oils" or "non-synthetic fragrance."There will be no phthalates in these.Purchase items that are fragrance-free.It is possible to purchase soap bars, hand soap, body wash and lotion without any smell.
Step 12: Be cautious with baby bottles.
Baby bottles, pacifiers, teethers and other plastic items are some of the most important places to avoid phthalates.You don't want your child to be exposed to high levels of harmful chemicals.Some of the chemicals that were banned from baby products in 2009, could still be found in older toys and products.Babies that can't feed themselves yet should use glass bottles.Silicone bottle nipples can be used.The nipples should not be used to feed your child.If your child comes into contact with other plastic products, read the labels.It's a good idea to look for phthalate andBPA-free.