Babies’ health is assaulted from all sides through exposure to toxins in their limited environment including plastic particles in the water supply and baby bottles, heavy metal in store-bought baby food and nappies loaded with toxic chemicals.
Experts estimate that in the first year a baby will go through 2,500 disposable diapers and up to 4,800 by the time they are toilet trained; diaper testing has found a list of volatile organic compounds, pesticides, formaldehyde, fragrances and dioxins in multiple products, several of which exceeded the health threshold.
This article is originally from Dr. Joseph Mercola
In addition to the cognitive and physical impairment associated with exposure to environmental toxins, disposable diapers have a significant impact on the environment, including the sheer number of diapers that reach landfills and off-gassing methane as they degrade.
Personal care products for babies can also expose infants to a load of toxic chemicals, which are pressed against the baby’s skin nearly 24/7 until they are potty trained.
This can be two or more years that babies are exposed to chemicals pressed against their genitals with known negative health effects.
Parents often consider comfort, absorbency and fit but research indicates that the materials and ingredients are likely more important when you consider that a diaper may potentially harm a child’s health.
Ingredients — If a product doesn’t disclose the ingredients, it may not be your best choice. Contact the manufacturer; they may be more willing to disclose all the ingredients with encouragement.
Consider cloth diapers — While they’re not a feasible option for everyone, it’s also important to remember that not all cloth diapers are the same. Organic cloth diapers can help avoid some of the toxic chemicals found in disposable products and they tend to be better for the environment.
Minimal plastic — It’s nearly impossible to find disposable diapers that do not use plastics, so look for brands that have a minimal amount. Also look for plain, un-died diapers with minimal or no designs.
Avoid fragrances and lotions — Avoid products that add fragrances as they increase the risk of contact dermatitis and allergic reactions. Fragrances are also made with toxic chemicals and increase the risk of exposure. If you like a lotion, choose a product that is free of phthalates, parabens, bisphenols, PFAS and fire-retardant chemicals.
Read the rest of the article here.
For beautiful reusable cloth nappies made in NZ go to Kekoa.co.nz
Check out the EWG Diaper Guide for nappies that have been tested and are the safest to use in their category.
If you are having issues with nappy rash there are natural solutions on our blog How To Ease Nappy Rash
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