Before you drink from your plastic water bottle, read this.

In a study published in 2022, researchers shared their findings after sampling breast milk from 34 healthy mothers. 75% of the samples contained microplastics. Another study from 2020 discovered microplastics in placentas. Plastic contains a chemical called phthalate which makes it flexible. This chemical is also found in many shampoos, hairsprays, nail polish, etc. 

Five studies from the US, Asia and Europe analyzed the effects of early childhood exposure to phthalates. Here is what they found: 

-Concern for increased rates of immunologic conditions (asthma, eczema as well as other diseases).

-Tendencies associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder. 

-Alterations in physical development 

Phthalates have also been found to cause disruption in adult male and female hormones. With repeated exposure, we can see negative effects with both symptoms and lab values. 

“…suggesting that some baby care products may be the primary exposure sources before infants begin to crawl and develop increased hand-to-mouth activities later in infancy” (Braun et al. , 2014) .

Various forms of phthalate have been banned or restricted in the UK, however that’s not the case in the US. 

Now, there is no way to avoid consuming microplastics entirely. Lifetime perfection in avoidance is simply not feasible. However, there are ways to significantly reduce your exposure. 

-Read your labels and recognize phthalates and other words like Low molecular weight (LMW) phthalates,  di-methyl phthalate (DMP), di-ethyl phthalate (DEP), and di-butyl phthalate (DBP). 

-Choose clean skincare products for you and your children. 

-Do not reheat your food in plastic Tupperware or containers. 

-Do not cook with plastic utensils.

-Avoid plastic bottles, use glass instead. 

-Do not drink from water bottles, especially those which were previously left in a hot/warm vehicle. 

-Avoid painting your nails during pregnancy unless the nail polish is a clean brand. 

Remember the goal is NOT perfection, but reduction! Also, we have to be realistic. I am not 100% and you won’t be either, improvement is goal.