Chemicals in everyday products that affect kids

BPA is banned in the making of baby bottles because of its potential harm to a baby's growth and development. — 123rf

What if the products you use every day – your child’s lunchbox, the shampoo for their hair, or even the scent in your living room – could be quietly influencing their growth and development?

Invisible to the naked eye, certain chemicals known as endocrine disruptors are woven into the fabric of our daily lives.

As parents, understanding their potential impact on children’s hormones and knowing how to navigate this unseen landscape can help us protect the next generation without unnecessary fear.

As a paediatric endocrinologist, I frequently encounter parents concerned about their child’s growth or puberty patterns, and understanding the potential role of these substances is an important part of providing comprehensive care.

What are endocrine disruptors?

Hormones act like tiny messengers guiding your child’s growth, puberty, and even emotions.

Endocrine disruptors can mimic or block these messages, causing confusion in the body’s instructions.

These chemicals are everywhere, in plastic containers, food packaging, personal care products, and even the air and water we breathe.

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Some common examples include:

• Phthalates – Often found in scented products (including synthetic fragrances and some essential oils) and plastics.
• Bisphenol A (BPA) – Present in hard plastics and metal can linings.
• Pesticides – Used in conventional farming.
• Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) – Chemicals in non-stick cookware and stain-resistant fabrics.

Children are particularly vulnerable because their bodies and brains are still developing.

Even small exposures can sometimes have significant effects.

Natural doesn’t mean safe

It’s a common belief that “natural” means safe, but that’s not always the case.

Some herbal supplements contain active compounds that can influence hormone levels, often without clear information on dosage or side effects in children.

Similarly, soy products and soy milk contain plant compounds called phytoestrogens, which can weakly mimic the female sex hormone oestrogen.

While moderate soy consumption is generally safe and has nutritional value, excessive intake might theoretically affect hormonal development or puberty timing in young children.

Current evidence does not show that typical soy consumption causes harm, but moderation and medical advice are important, especially for infants and toddlers.

ALSO READ: Soy does not increase breast cancer risk

How they affect children

Research has linked endocrine disruptors to shifts in puberty timing – either earlier or later than expected – as well as to changes in growth patterns, weight gain, and even behavioural issues.

For example, BPA and phthalates have been studied for their potential to alter puberty.

Thyroid hormones, essential for growth and brain development, may also be disrupted.

That said, studies and science are still uncovering how all these pieces fit together.

Not every child exposed will experience problems, but knowing the risks helps us take sensible precautions.

Picture a typical morning: You pack your child’s lunch in a plastic container, heat their soup in a plastic bowl, and refill their water bottle with warm water.

Heating food or drinks in plastic can cause chemicals like BPA and phthalates to leach into what your child consumes.

At home, pesticides may linger on non-organic produce.

Personal care products like shampoos and lotions can contain synthetic fragrances with phthalates.

Even furniture and carpets might be treated with stain-resistant chemicals that slowly release endocrine disruptors into the air.

Scented candles, air fresheners and heavy use of essential oils add to this invisible mix.

Practical steps for protection

The good news? You don’t need to overhaul your life to make a difference.

Avoid heating food or drinks in plastic containers. 

Use glass or ceramic instead, and don’t pour hot liquids into plastic bottles – choose stainless steel or glass.

Opt for fresh, organic produce whenever possible to reduce pesticide exposure, and wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly.

Choose personal care products free of phthalates and synthetic fragrances. 

Minimise use of scented products and essential oils, especially around babies and young children.

Limit processed and packaged foods, which can increase exposure to harmful chemicals.

Select furniture and fabrics without stain-resistant treatments, keep your home clean to reduce dust build-up and ensure good ventilation.

Use a safe quality water filter to remove any contaminants.

When to seek help?

If your child shows unusual signs like very early or delayed puberty, sudden changes in growth or weight, or behavioural difficulties, consult your paediatrician.

While endocrine disruptors might contribute in some cases, most abnormal growth or puberty changes result from other health conditions.

Don’t rush to blame every issue on these chemicals; a paediatric endocrinologist will help find the real cause and guide treatment.

Think of endocrine disruptors like background noise in a busy city – they are impossible to eliminate entirely, but you can choose quieter streets and use earplugs to make the environment more comfortable.

Similarly, while we can’t avoid all exposure to these chemicals, small, sensible changes can significantly reduce your child’s overall risk.

It’s important not to let concern turn into worry or paranoia about every little thing.

Instead, focus on what’s practical and within control.

Remember, your child’s body is resilient, and a healthy lifestyle overall makes a bigger difference than trying to achieve perfect avoidance.

Dr Jeanne Wong Sze Lyn is a consultant paediatrician and paediatric endocrinologist. For more information, email [e-mail]. The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.