What is a phthalate?!

Whaaat on earth is a phthalate… and why should we even care?…

First I should say that the official verdict on these chemicals is not yet out.  Next I will say, that some people appear to be more sensitive than others.  Lastly, I will say that the seem to be everywhere!!!

What is it?
A high molecular weight (heavy) molecule that make your plastic playable.  They do not easily evaporate.

What are they in?
Just about everything from IV tubing, to fast food, and cosmetics/perfumes.

Why do I care?
While research is still being conducted, there seems to be a link between phthalates and chronic disease.  There are specific concerns in regards to hormone disruption in particular.  Doctors have recommended that pregnant women, and children (especially in puberty) might want to take special care.

Why isn’t it more straight forward?
Phthalates are a class of chemicals, and they vary on how they interact with each other, and other chemicals. Chemical interactions taking place inside the body are not so straight forward!

Specifics?
DBP and DEHP have been associated with reproductive damage.
DnOP has been associated with endometriosis.
DiDP has been associated with nausea, vomiting and dizziness.
Granted… these are links, and associations, not proven causation.  Still, docs are suggesting that we should be on the safe side, and pick phthalate-free whenever possible.

Further Reading and Sources

• Toxicity and Estrogenic Endocrine Disrupting Activity of Phthalates and Their Mixtures
• Role of Emerging Environmental Risk Factors in Thyroid Cancer: A Brief Review
• Temporal Trends of Urinary Phthalate Concentrations in Two Populations: Effects of REACH Authorization after Five Years
• Biomonitoring and Subsequent Risk Assessment of Combined Exposure to Phthalates in Iranian Children and Adolescents
• The epidemiologic evidence linking prenatal and postnatal exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals with male reproductive disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Namaste,

Your Holistic Nurse, Carolee