Natural and Sustainable

Known to block male hormones and lead to reproductive feminization in laboratory animals, phthalates are environmental toxins found in plastics and many synthetic personal care products. A recent study may have discovered on way in which these chemicals harm humans.

Compairing phthalate metabolites in blood and urine samples of more than 400 men between 18 and 55 who have vistied a Boston Fertility center, researchers linked higher levels of this chemical with altered thyriod hormone levels. While more clinival stufy is needed, the thyroid connection has been found in male rats as well.

In addition, research at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry shows that pregnant women using beauty products containing phthalates gave buirth to boys with smaller genitals. Since the thyroid glans stimulates energy production and impacts basal metabolic rate, it influences all bodily functions, including reproduction.

Phthalates may also cause asthma as well as liver and kidney damage.

These chemicals are hardly essential - in most cases, safer alternatives do exist.

• PVC-free building products.
Steer clear of vinyl windows and doors and choose wood instead. For flooring, choose linoleum, cork, bamboo, or wood instead of vinyl. Adhesives, caulk, grout, and sealants may also contain phthalates.

• PVC-free shower curtains.
Avoid vinyl shower curtains in favor of natural fibers, polyester, or nylon.

• PVC-free packaging.
Look at the recycling symbol on products you purchase in plastic packaging. Plastics marked with the #3 symbol contain PVC. Microsoft, Johnson & Johnson, Victoria’s Secret, and Bath and Body Works have agreed to phase out the use of PVC in their packaging. Ask the companies you buy products from to do the same.

• PVC-free toys.
Toymakers Brio, Chicco, Early Start, Evenflo, Gerber, Lego, Prime Time, Sassy, and Tiny Love have pledged to stop using PVC. Look for products labeled as PVC-free.

• PVC-free food storage.
Buy plastic wrap and bags made from polyethylene, such as GLAD. For food storage, use glass containers or plastic containers marked with recycling symbols other than the #3. For heating food, microwave food in glass containers, not plastic. Dispose of all clear, shiny plastic baby bottles, unless the manufacturer states they are not made of polycarbonate. Use filtered drinking water (even bottled water may contain phthalates).

• Phthalate-free cosmetics.
Check ingredient lists and avoid products listing ‘fragrance’ or phthalates. A wide variety of personal-care products may contain phthalates, including perfume, cologne, after-shave, deodorant, soap, hair and skin-care products, and makeup.
(Sources: Some information pulled from TFL 2007)

**What is “one habit of moderately successful people”? Over at Get Incensed, Mark Jabo has the answer in more ways than one. **

*Natural and Sustainable Living Tip: Purify indoor air with plants instead of with artificial room fresheners.