Reduce your child's exposure to plastics for a healthier tomorrow
Plastics are everywhere -- in our brains, bloodstream, and lungs and in pregnant women's placenta, where they can cause long-term damage to a child's cognition, heart health and fertility. They're also suspected of causing childhood asthma and leading to hormone disruption, chronic inflammation, IQ loss and neurodevelopmental issues such as autism and ADHD, as well as obesity and other chronic conditions later in a child's life.
A study published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health looked at available research on the impact on children of three chemicals that leach out of plastics -- phthalates used to make plastic flexible; bisphenols, which provide rigidity; and PFAS, which help materials resist heat and repel water. The conclusion: When kids are overexposed to plastics, they pay a big price down the road. And another study suggests that plastic pollution is a major contributor to the 35% increase in childhood cancers over the last five decades.
While exposure cannot be eliminated (plastics are vital in medical environments), the researchers say there's a lot you can do to reduce your child's -- and your -- exposure. Never microwave anything in plastic or wash plastic items in a dishwasher; always store foods in glass or stainless steel. Limit exposure to plastics that may be put in a child's mouth (utensils, pacifiers, etc.).
To transform the health of American children, it's important to transform regulations on the use of chemicals in plastics and to find ways to remove environmental microplastic pollution. Let each one of us encourage that movement by reducing use at home.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.
(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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