subject: Chemical Causes of Early Puberty [print this page] Chemical Causes of Early Puberty Chemical Causes of Early Puberty
The natural health researchers at Institute for Vibrant Living (IVL) have investigated the phenomenon of early puberty. Here is their report:
Have You Heard?
You may have heard reports lately or even witnessed firsthand that many children are reaching puberty at a far, far earlier age than ever before. If you have noticed this phenomenon, you are most definitely not alone.
Many researchers, doctors and scientists are now aware of the same fact. This issue has led to research that aims to discover what is causing this acceleration towards puberty.
Phthalates, Phytoestrogens and Phenols- A Real Cause for Concern
The evidence is becoming quite strong that chemicals in our environment are largely to blame for the phenomenon of early puberty. Unfortunately, this issue could have serious long-term health implications for the children suffering from it.
Three classes of chemicals in particular seem to be of the most concern and they are: phthalates, phytoestrogens and phenols. These three chemical classes seem to be largely at the root of the problem.
Problematic Chemicals are Seemingly Everywhere
When one steps back and looks at sources of exposure for these problematic chemicals, the picture that is painted can be somewhat alarming.
For example, chemicals can be found in high concentrations in what many people may believe to be "safe" products including beauty products, such as lotions, shampoos, make up, as well as scents and perfumes. However, these are far from being the only sources, as the chemicals are also found in PVCs, plastics and coatings.
A major part of the problem in combating exposure is being able to find where these chemicals are located in the first place. Often they are hidden in products that no one would really suspect, such as the lining of a can of beans or tomatoes.
These can linings contain harmful chemicals that can promote early puberty.
The Serious Problem of Bisphenol A (BPA)
A major culprit in this early puberty crisis is a chemical called bisphenol A. In short, bisphenol A is very bad news; yet, it is quite commonly used in manufacturing.
Bisphenol A, the same chemical put into the lining of food cans, is found in plastic water bottles as well. One of the major problems with bisphenol A is that it functions as an endocrine disruptor.
While an endocrine disruptor might sound like a cool weapon from a science fiction film, it is actually quite a serious issue. Endocrine disruptors, as the name indicates, can disrupt the endocrine or the hormone system.
This can cause issues such as early puberty. Unfortunately, the problem is so serious that endocrine disruptors have even been found in water.
Addressing this problem and protecting your children is a comprehensive one, as these chemicals are found in all sorts of products. Be on the lookout for plastics labeled "3," as they should be avoided.
Items such as polyvinyl choloride or PVC likewise should be avoided. This harmful chemical makes its way into everything from shower curtains to children's toys and a host of other products.
The Learning Curve
Learning what products to avoid will likely be an ongoing process, but there are steps you can take to jumpstart your move towards keeping your children safe from exposure. A first step that you can take is to only use beauty products made from real ingredients and compounds, which you can identify.
This may mean doing some research on a specific product, but it is well worth the time. The more ingredients, the easier it is for these harmful agents to hide.
Secondly, don't overuse or unnecessarily use beauty products, such as makeup and perfume.
Third, avoid plastics, bisphenol A, PVC and other harmful compounds whenever possible.
Fourth, use green cleaners with natural ingredients.
