Infants Born with Toxic Chemicals in their Blood

The Environmental Working Group has posted a report on a study that found "up to 232 toxic chemicals in the umbilical cord blood of 10 babies from racial and ethnic minority groups. The findings constitute hard evidence that each child was exposed to a host of dangerous substances while still in its mother’s womb."

EWG offers these suggestions for women who plan to have children.

1. Eat fewer processed foods, because they often contain chemical additives.
2. Eat organic produce.
3. Don't microwave food in plastic containers. Use glass or ceramics.
4. Filter your tap water.
5. Eat fewer meat and high-fat dairy products.
6. Use fewer cosmetics and other personal care products.
7. Avoid artificial fragrances.
8. Don't use stain repellants on clothing, bedding or upholstery.
9. Use fewer strong household cleaners, more soap and water.
10. Use manual or electric yard tools instead of gasoline-powered models.
11. Avoid gasoline fumes when you're filling your car.
12. Eat seafood known to be low in PCB and mercury contamination, such as wild Alaska salmon and canned salmon. Avoid canned tuna — it contains mercury.