Protecting Your Kids from Microplastics
The Dangers of Microplastics & How Parents Can Avoid Them
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that have been found in water and food sources across the world and have recently been gaining attention for their potential impact on health. I went into a deep dive into microplastics when I had Theo and realized just how many baby products are made of plastic. When you think about the fact that babies put everything in their mouth, that is soooo much plastic that they are ingesting daily. We've gone to great lengths to keep plastic out of Theo's diet and I wanted to share some of the top tips I've learned. There are so many things that I never even thought about it and it's really easy to unknowingly be exposing your baby to microplastic, so hopefully this can help some of you!
What Are Microplastics and Why Are They Harmful?
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size, resulting from the degradation of larger plastic materials and the shedding of synthetic fibers. These tiny particles can make their way into the environment through various means, such as the breakdown of larger plastic waste, microbeads found in personal care products, food packaging, and synthetic fibers shed during laundering. Recent studies have detected microplastics in various human organs, including the brain, liver, kidneys, and lungs, raising concerns about potential health impacts such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and hormonal disruptions.
It's estimated that over 8 million metric tons of plastic enter the oceans each year, and microplastics have been found in 83% of tap water samples worldwide.
For children, whose bodies and immune systems are still developing, reducing exposure to microplastics is even more important. But how when plastic is everywhere?!
Tips on Avoiding Microplastics
While it might seem impossible to completely escape microplastics, there are practical steps parents can take to minimize their children’s exposure.
Choose Fresh, Whole Foods
One of the ways microplastics enter our system is through food. They are found in various processed foods and also in marine organisms. By focusing on whole foods and minimizing processed options, you can reduce the likelihood of consuming microplastics. Encourage your family to enjoy fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, and lean meats, which are less likely to contain plastic particles.
2. Avoid Single-Use Plastics
Reduce your use of single-use plastics, which are a major source of microplastics in the environment. Choose reusable water bottles, food containers, and bags. Glass or stainless steel alternatives can serve as safer options. And NEVER heat up liquid or food in plastic.
Here are some blog posts with plastic-free alternatives to use:
3. Make Conscious Consumer Choices
Our everyday choices as consumers can have a big impact. Opt for products with eco-friendly packaging, and avoid items containing microbeads, such as certain toothpastes and exfoliating scrubs. Checking the labels for ingredients like polyethylene and polypropylene will help you sidestep such products.
4. Be Aware of Textiles
Synthetic fabrics, like polyester and acrylic, shed microfibers during washing that can end up in waterways. Consider investing in garments made from natural fibers like cotton, wool, or linen. Additionally, using a filter bag or a microfiber filter on your washing machine can catch these tiny fibers before they drain away.
5. Get a Cotton Stuffed Animal
Babies put everything in their mouth, but one thing literally in front of our nose is the stuffed animals they sleep with every night. Most of these are made from polyester, a synthetic fiber made from petroleum-based chemicals. These fibers easily come off and could be ingested by your child DAILY. One of the easiest swaps to make is to ensure that they are sleeping with a 100% cotton animal or lovey. Under the Nile has ones that are adorable and safe!
Here’s a video that explains more about the dangers of microplastics, with tips on how to keep them away from your children.
Sustainable Habits, Healthier Future
As parents, it’s natural to worry about new reports highlighting potential threats to children’s wellbeing. The microplastic concern underscores the ongoing importance of instilling sustainable, eco-conscious habits in our daily lives. By making thoughtful choices for your family, not only can you help keep your children healthier, but also play a role in preserving the planet for future generations.
Embracing these changes, though challenging at first, can become rewarding family routines that contribute to your children's present and future life quality—and perhaps your own peace of mind, too.
xoxo, Nat
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