More than a year ago, there was a huge exposé of the harmful levels of lead in many toys manufactured throughout the world. This was mainly due to poor factory practices in China and other eastern countries. After this information was made public, parents everywhere began switching to American-made or wooden toys for their children. Although that was a good move for many, there’s still a culprit lurking beneath the surface of those toys–plastic. Almost every toy on the market is made with cheap plastics that are full of harmful chemicals. Most bottles, nipples, and other baby products are also made of these plastics.

The Plastic Problem

According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), children ingest more than 120 chemicals on a daily basis. Most of these toxic chemicals are absorbed through the skin or mouth. Although the issue has been brought to the FDA’s attention many times, the organization still hasn’t advanced research or increased regulation.

There are currently no restrictions on the various plastics used in everyday products marketed to children. These plastics contain many harmful chemicals that are categorized as carcinogens (cancer-causing chemicals). Many also contain phthalate (an additive to make plastic flexible and durable), which can cause reproductive disorders in males.

The Risk Factor

Babies and children develop at a much faster rate than adults, which leads to greater vulnerability and risk concerning these chemicals. An adult’s body is able to resist and overcome many of the toxins found in everyday plastic products, but a baby’s body is a blank canvas, open to everything it ingests. A child’s development can also be directly linked to the toxins in toys. Links have been found between these chemicals and colds, ear infections, allergies, and behavioral changes in children.

These toxins pose the greatest danger to infants who are prone to allergic reactions. The term “toxic overload” refers to the condition of the body when it is at its maximum capacity of toxins. Many children’s immune systems cannot regulate the various toxic chemicals (60 or more on a daily basis) found in toys, and so their bodies go into toxic shock. The bodies will shut down to protect themselves, requiring immediate medical attention.

Keep Your Kids Safe

To avoid these chemicals, buy baby products that are solid wood or are clearly marked “BPA free.” Purchasing 100% organic products is another way to ensure safety. When a product is organic, you can rest assured that it is natural and doesn’t contain any additives.

Many parents believe that just because a product was made for a baby, it is safe. This assumption has lead to many unfortunate issues. Sadly, most major toy manufacturers are more concerned about making money than they are about your child’s safety. You have to be an advocate for your children. Take the time to research and learn to ask the right questions before buying plastics for your children.

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