A few days ago I talked to one of my dearest friends in this world who was telling me that since they developed quick-rising yeast many people have been sensitive to breads. When I heard that, I was upset because here was another food substance that had been tampered with. Is anyone besides me disgruntled with the prevalence of GMO foods, i.e. wheat, soy, and corn? And what about all the additives and preservatives that make some processed foods synonymous with junk food.
Even though the challenge to feed our family healthy foods seems overwhelming, small changes can make a difference. I do think it is SO important to be aware and proactive as we make choices that affect our health and that of our children and unborn children. That is one of the overriding purposes of this blog--to inform others of healthy options. See also my first post on this same subject.
I have learned much about rearing children from the Parents as Teachers organization which provides support to parents of preschool children. I read in this organization's foundational curriculum that there are around 1000 environmental chemicals, sometimes called neurotoxins, that can interfere with brain development. Prenatal exposure to these toxins can be especially harmful.
This information urges parents to think about the safety of the foods their children eat. Avoid fish that is known to have high levels of mercury. Be aware that fruits and veggies are often treated with pesticides. Buying organic is a good option, but since that can be expensive, another solution is to wash and peel fresh produce before eating it.
I'm hearing from several directions to avoid buying bottled water. Parents as Teachers info says to fill and reuse your own child-safe cups and bottles instead. Call your city water department to find out if your municipal water contains high levels of chemicals. [That includes chlorine. Is your tap water highly chlorinated?] If you have a well, get your water tested to make sure it is safe.
Avoid buying foods in #3, #6, and #7 plastics which contain harmful contaminates that seep into food. Reheating food in plastic accelerates this process. Quoting Parents as Teachers, "Older baby bottles and sippy cups may contain a harmful chemical called BPA. If you're not sure about the ones your child uses, throw them out and buy new ones."
Discard mercury thermometers, paint, fluorescent light tubes, and pesticides at a hazardous waste collection center. Put away foods, fill cracks around doors and windows, and cover garbage containers to discourage insect pests in your home so you don't have to use chemicals to kill them that children might be exposed to. If your yard is treated with pesticides or fertilizers, have everyone remove their shoes when coming inside so residues aren't tracked into your home. Have children wash hands after playing outside and before eating.
Mothers, especially pregnant ones, need to take the same precautions for themselves that they take for
their children. In the book, "Healthy Child, Healthy World", Christopher Gaugin lists several things that expectant mothers can do to minimize their own exposures and that of their unborn baby.
1. EAT INTELLIGENTLY. "Cut out caffeine and alcohol. Eat a protein-rich diet with a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Take prenatal vitamins with folic acid to protect against neural-tube defects and get enough omega-3. And for heaven's sake, don't smoke." He also suggests buying organic foods or at least washing and peeling fruits and veggies.
Too much soy is harmful to developing babies. Trim fat from meat and buy wild caught fish. Keep kitchens and food prep as bacteria free as possible. Pregnant women should not change kitty litter boxes. Side-step junk food and processed food. Avoid MSG, nitrates, artificial sweeteners and colors.
2. CLEAN WATER. Run cold water for a few minutes in the a.m. Have your water tested for lead. Pipes in older houses are especially suspect. Filter it, at least with a basic tap filter or picture. Cut back on bottled water. [I will do a post on water quality soon.]
3. BEAUTY PRODUCTS. Nix the nail polish. Choose safe fragrances. Opt for highlights instead of hair dyes.
4. CLEAN AIR. Use full-service gas pumps. Banish smokers. Clean green. Freshen air naturally. Try green plants. Ventilate, ventilate, ventilate.
5. RENOVATE EARLY AND SAFELY. Safe paint, safe flooring.
Does this sound overwhelming? Sign up at healthychild.org for free emails and info to help you navigate through pregnancy and beyond.
