Air pollution stands as one of the most significant environmental threats to human health globally, especially impacting children's well-being. Common childhood health issues like asthma, allergies, and early puberty can be linked to exposure to pollutants.
Primary vs. Secondary Pollutants: These toxins come in two categories: primary and secondary. Primary pollutants, such as particulate matter and gases, are directly emitted into the air. Secondary pollutants form through reactions between primary pollutants and other gases.
Daily Toxin Exposure: Children encounter environmental toxins daily, including smoke, dust, plastics, and pesticides.
Phthalates and Their Effects: Phthalates, chemicals used to soften plastic, are particularly concerning. They trigger inflammatory responses through skin contact, ingestion, or inhalation. Exposure to phthalates can increase asthma and allergy rates in children, affecting their respiratory health. Common sources include personal care products, plastic food containers, and children's toys.
Reducing Exposure: To minimize exposure to phthalates and other toxins, opt for glass containers for food storage, stainless-steel water bottles, and phthalate-free toy brands like Plan Toys and Grimm's.
Children's Vulnerability: Children and infants are more susceptible to the effects of environmental toxins due to their developing bodies, making it crucial to minimize their exposure.
Tobacco Smoke: Tobacco smoke is a significant indoor air pollutant, classified as particulate matter. Chronic exposure to tobacco smoke can alter lung structure and increase the risk of asthma, especially if exposed prenatally.
Avoidance Strategies: Employing HEPA air purifiers, removing shoes indoors, and practicing regular personal hygiene, such as showering and changing clothes after outdoor activities, can help reduce exposure to particulate matter.
Conclusion: Understanding and mitigating exposure to environmental toxins is vital for children's health, particularly those with asthma and allergies. By being proactive in minimizing exposure, we can safeguard their respiratory health and overall well-being.
"Research your own experience; absorb what is useful, reject what is useless, add what is essentially your own." - Bruce Lee
By Dr. Chad Patterson, ND
References:
BabyCenter Staff. “Phthalates: What You Need to Know.” BabyCenter, BabyCenter, https://www.babycenter.com/0_phthalates-what-you-need-to-know_3647067.bc.
Dong, Guang-Hui, et al. “Gender Differences and Effect of Air Pollution on Asthma in Children with and without Allergic Predisposition: Northeast Chinese Children Health Study.” PloS One, Public Library of Science, 2011, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3139656/.
Editor1. “How Environmental Toxicants Contribute to Allergy, Asthma, and Autoimmunity.” Naturopathic Doctor News and Review, Naturopathic Doctor News and Review, 1 Feb. 2016, https://ndnr.com/autoimmuneallergy-medicine/how-environmental-toxicants-contribute-to-allergy-asthma-and-autoimmunity/.
Ferrante, Giuliana, and Stefania La Grutta. “The Burden of Pediatric Asthma.” Frontiers in Pediatrics, Frontiers Media S.A., 22 June 2018, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6023992/.
James, Maia, et al. “Non-Toxic Toys Shopping Guide.” Gimme the Good Stuff, 4 Aug. 2019, https://gimmethegoodstuff.org/safe-toy-guide.
Pollock, et al. “Outdoor Environment and Pediatric Asthma: An Update on the Evidence from North America.” Canadian Respiratory Journal, Hindawi, 23 Jan. 2017, https://www.hindawi.com/journals/crj/2017/8921917/.
Sanchez, Jorge, et al. “Clinical Differences between Children with Asthma and Rhinitis in Rural and Urban Areas.” Colombia Medica (Cali, Colombia), Universidad Del Valle, 30 June 2018, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6084920/#B21.
Whyand, T, et al. “Pollution and Respiratory Disease: Can Diet or Supplements Help? A Review.” Respiratory Research, BioMed Central, 2 May 2018, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5930792/.
Zhang, Qingling, et al. “Link between Environmental Air Pollution and Allergic Asthma: East Meets West.” Journal of Thoracic Disease, AME Publishing Company, Jan. 2015, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4311080/
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