Maternal exposure to endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC) mixtures are associated with lower IQ at the age of 7 in offspring. Previous studies have looked at the effects of single EDCs in children, and they have been linked to negative neurodevelopment outcomes. This latest study, published in the January of this year, looked at the impact of exposure to a mixture of EDCs (we are most often exposed to multiple EDCs at a time). The study included 718 mother-child pairs and measured 26 EDCs in the first trimester using blood and urine samples, then assessed IQ scores in offspring at age 7.
Results showed that EDCs had the greatest impact on boys and resulted in significantly lower IQ scores at the age of 7. Probably one of the most concerning findings was that bisphenol F, the thought-to-be safe replacement for BPA, may not be any safer for children. Researchers plan to conduct follow up studies to confirm neurotoxicity. Environment International
Takeaway: EDCs are found most commonly in plastic water bottles and containers, metal food can linings, personal care products and cosmetics, detergents and cleaning supplies, medicine, food, toys, and pesticides. Or in other words… everywhere! The best ways to limit you and your children’s exposure to the most common EDCs are:
- Use glass containers,
stainless-steel water bottles, and wooden toys instead of plastic
- Purchase “pure” cleaning and self-care products that are free of harmful chemicals
- Limit medication use whenever possible
- Consume organic and locally grown foods as much as possible
