Mama-san Memo: The Dangers of Plastic Toys & Products

Over the last few years, the danger of plastic infant and childhood toys, bottles, and dishware has come to light in the media.  The problem lies within the chemicals bisphenol A as well as phthalates. Bisphenol A is a toxic chemical additive used to either soften or harden plastic and phthalates can be found in shampoo and soaps. Since infants and children metabolize chemicals much differently than adults, the effects can be devastating, as seen below.

"... hundreds of studies on the chemicals (in plastics) have linked them to malfunctions in children's developing organs and reproductive systems, as well as breast cancer, prostate cancer, malformed sexual organs, low sperm counts and disruption of the endocrine system. A Japanese study found that babies who put products containing bisphenol A into their mouths can leach significant levels of the chemical from the plastic. A separate Tufts University study found that pregnant rodents exposed to a mere fraction of the level of bisphenol A considered "safe" by the EPA for a baby to consume produced changes in the rats' mammary tissues that are associated with breast cancer."

To read the full article, view:

http://www.naturalnews.com/021173.html

Aware parents keep children safe by avoiding any plastic or synthetic toy, bottle, or dishware product and instead focus on natural materials such as organic fabrics, wood for toys/teethers/baby spoons, glass for baby bottles, heavy ceramics or stainless steel for dishware, sippy cups and water bottles. By using the most natural materials available, parents also help to instill within the child a connection with nature through texture, color, and weight.

Resources:

http://www.tinybirdorganics.com (nat. toys/wooden dishware/org. fabrics)

http://www.kidadvance.com (natural toys)

http://www.vitacost.com (discount Weleda baby shampoo/soaps)

http://www.tingamababy.com (glass bottles w/ protective silicone sleeve)

http://www.novanatural.com (natural toys)