Avoid Some Common Household Toxins

Science has yet to prove unequivocally that certain diseases are caused by household chemicals, such as bisphenol-A (BPA), phthalates and flame-retardants, but ongoing research is determining the connections more conclusively.

Bisphenol-A is a chemical found in some hard plastics including some baby bottles, water bottles and canned foods. Repeated laboratory tests confirm that Bisphenol-A increases the risk of breast and prostate cancer in lab animals, and also obesity, hyperactivity and behavior changes. The European Union is concerned enough about Bisphenol-A that it has banned it from baby bottles.

Phthalates -- chemicals added to plastics to boost flexibility and durability -- are used in products from cosmetics to infant skin creams, carpeting, and other flooring.

Fire retardants are another major source of chemicals in everyday products, such as foam-stuffed furniture and mattresses, new carpets, computers and other electronics. They remain in the body years after exposure and have been shown to cause neurological problems in animals. Women with higher levels of fire retardants in their bodies have a harder time getting pregnant.

If you're anxious about these chemicals' potential dangers, here are some changes you can make in your own home to avoid these toxins.

~ Avoid microwaving in plastic or washing it in the dishwasher. Putting plastic containers in the dishwasher with harsh detergents can also potentially release BPA.

~ Buy products with fewer chemicals.

~ Look for plastic toys marked BPA-free, particularly those young children put in their mouths.

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