KIDS AND TEENS

Hopefully with the nice weather we’ve been having, we all are spending some time outside getting active and enjoying some fresh air. However, along with the nice weather come the mosquitoes and sunburns. Typically, we would address this problem with insect repellant and sunscreen. But did you know that some dangerous chemicals lurk in these two ointments?

Conventional insect repellent usually contains DEET, a pesticide that could cause brain deficits in vulnerable populations, especially children. Studies have shown that DEET causes brain cell death and behavioral changes in rats after frequent and prolonged use. With heavy exposure to DEET and other insecticides, humans may experience memory loss, headache, weakness, fatigue, muscle and joint pain, tremors and shortness of breath.

And according to a new study from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the bodies of nearly all Americans are contaminated with a sunscreen chemical that has been linked to allergies, hormone disruption, and cell damage.  The chemical, oxybenzone, is widely used in sunscreens, lip balm, lipstick, moisturizers, and fragrances. A companion study from the Mt. Sinai School of Medicine found that the same chemical is linked to low birth weight in baby girls whose mothers are exposed during pregnancy.

So what can we do?? Fortunately, there are natural insect repellants and sunscreens that replace the toxic chemicals with natural versions that are not harmful to our bodies. Please consider replacing your conventional products with natural products, especially if you have children. Another thing to consider is that some sun exposure is good for us and actually healing to our bodies. Don’t get caught in the hype that sunlight is going to kill you. Sunlight allows our bodies to make Vitamin D, a very important vitamin in preventing sickness and disease as well as building strong & healthy bones.  Most Americans are deficient in Vitamin D, so we could benefit from spending some time in the sun. Just don’t overdo it; start by spending just 10 min. in the sun at a time and avoid getting burned. If you are going to spend prolonged time outside, cover up with clothing or use a natural sunscreen.

Some good brands to try are: Burt’s Bees, All Terrain, Jásön, Kiss My Face, and Aubrey Organics. Order online from iherb.com or visit your local health food store.