Toxins to Avoid While Pregnant
Toxins are all around us. They are in the ground and the air, on our produce, plastic storage ware, cookware, candles, and seriously the list goes on and on. Most of us already know that exposure to toxins during pregnancy can be harmful, but you may not have known that these toxins are found in many of our everyday household items. Removing toxins from your life, especially when you are pregnant can be overwhelming, but starting slowly can make the transition so much easier and can help you keep your little one healthy.
Avoid Pesticides and Herbicides
Pesticides and herbicides are found in more than just produce, but for now, switching to eating organic produce is a great place to start. Studies show that those who regularly eat organic produce have lower levels of pesticides internally, so a small, simple swap at the grocery store can make a difference. One herbicide that is widely used is called glyphosate, it is the active ingredient in the household spray, Roundup, and is found on some conventional-grown crops. Most crops that are genetically modified are sprayed with Roundup, this includes crops like corn and soy, and some crops like wheat are also sprayed around harvest to keep them dry. Glyphosate has been linked to cancer, gut issues that lead to the inability to absorb nutrients, pre-term labor, and low birth weight. Other pesticides found in produce have been linked to infertility, decreased mental development, and can interfere with organ development. If you don’t live in an area where you have access to a grocery stores that sells lots of organic produce, try talking to your local farmer. Many farmers may not be certified organic but use organic practices that also produce clean produce.
Avoid BPA
BPA, a chemical commonly found in plastic storage containers and other plastic items, like water bottles, plastic bags, kids' toys, and coatings on receipts is a known endocrine disruptor. BPA mimics hormones in your body and can cause imbalances and disruption. If you are pregnant, BPA can also affect your baby’s developing systems, and studies show that BPA can pass through the placenta to the baby. It has been shown to negatively affect the baby’s thyroid development, brain development, and growth. BPA is included in so many products, so it is important to limit your exposure at home. Switch to glass storage containers, use a glass or stainless steel reusable water bottle, use reusable silicon bags and ask stores to email your receipt. These simple changes can make a huge difference and are a way to help protect yourself and your baby from sickness and disease.
Avoid Artificial Food Dyes
Artificial colors found in many packaged foods, medicines, cosmetics, and that red velvet cake you love, are generally regarded as safe by many but have been linked to cancer, ADHD, behavior issues, allergies, and headaches. (Y’all these dyes are man-made, not natural, and are not good for your body. If your child is struggling with any of the above-mentioned issues try cutting out food dyes and see how they change.) When you are pregnant it’s important to eat foods that give life and nutrients to your body and to stay away from items that can cause yourself and baby harm. Red dyes specifically are known as possible carcinogens, meaning they can cause cancer. Be careful to read food labels because dyes are found in many items you wouldn’t expect, like pickles and meat. There are also products out there that use natural dyes, you can even find sprinkles that use natural colorings or use fruits and vegetables to add color.
How To Get Started
Doing your research is so important when it comes to the health of your family because many toxins are deemed “safe” even though they are linked to defects and disease. Research, reading labels, and switching out items can be overwhelming at first, but start slow, one item at a time. Changing out or avoiding toxins can help to change your family’s health and protect your little ones from many “common” issues.
Eat organic produce
use glass storage container
use a glass or stainless steel water bottle
have receipts emailed
Read food labels
avoid food dyes, they will be listed as red, yellow, etc
If you are looking for more help, download a copy of my free guide to reduce toxic exposure.