Phthalates - what is it, where do they contain, what harm does it do to health?

Modern industry uses various chemical compounds to impart the desired properties to materials. Many of them are unsafe for human health. An example of such dangerous substances are phthalates. What it is? So called phthalic acid salts, which are used as plasticizers. Their field of application is extremely multifaceted. However, scientists warn of a high risk of exposure of such substances to the structure of human DNA.

Phthalates. What it is

This name unites a group of substances, which by their chemical nature are esters of phthalic acid. It is obtained by oxidation of naphthalene. It is colorless crystals with a melting point of 200 ° C. In the process of heating, this acid is converted into phthalic anhydrite. It is important to note that phthalates mimic the structure of the sex hormone estrogen. Getting into the human body, they can cause serious violations in the endocrine, sexual systems. But still today you can meet a huge variety of products, where phthalates are used. What is it, we have already figured out. Now it is worthwhile to learn about the most common products and materials in which you can find a dangerous chemical substance.

Phthalate application fields

As plasticizers phthalates are used in the manufacture of building materials, medical equipment, products for children, in cosmetology. Everyone likes beautiful stretch ceilings that give the room a modern, colorful look. However, few people know that a low-quality film can become an "invisible killer." Catheters, all kinds of containers for blood and other materials, the shell of some medicines is another area of phthalate application. Of course, the presence of harmful substances in paints, rubber, lubricants today no one is surprised. However, in synthetic clothing, and in packages, and in raincoats, curtains for the bathroom, and even in the material for car upholstery, phthalates are found. Where are these harmful compounds still contained? To the pity, even children's products (nipples, special teethers for teeth), toys can cause deterioration of health.

Phthalates and cosmetics

Cosmetics we use every day. However, experts, exploring the market for beauty products, were impressed by the results. Almost every second nail polish contains phthalates. Shampoos, conditioners, deodorants, cosmetics with sunscreen filters - all of these products contain unsafe salts of phthalic acid. Virtually every toilet water or perfume contains diethyl phthalate - a substance that is a deterrent, a substitute for alcohol. It is worth noting that many cosmetics, lipsticks, creams contain hidden phthalates. What it is? Most often, harmful components are called one, at first sight, not a suspicious word "perfume". However, one of the main components of such a composition is phthalic acid salts.

Can food contain phthalates?

Directly in the food industry, phthalates are not used. However, these substances are one of the main components of packaging, packaging for products. Thus, they can penetrate into food. In some cases, phthalates were found in wine. They enter the beverage through materials that are used in the process (for example, wine containers). There is a danger of phthalic acid salts entering the body and heating food in plastic dishes in microwave ovens. Phthalates are easily released from plastic when in contact with air. Bottled water is safe until it is closed. Once the lid is unscrewed, the plastic container becomes unusable for reuse.

What are phthalates, what harm do they do to health?

If the use of phthalates does not exceed the admissible boundary values, then they will not cause a sharp negative impact. However, the main danger lurks in another. These chemicals can accumulate in our body. The more toxic elements in the body, the more severe the consequences can be. Getting into the body, phthalates spread to all organs, harming the hormonal system, the liver, the lungs. Phthalates in the body of men inhibit the production of testosterone. In women, they provoke the development of breast cancer, ovarian disease. A large number of these substances can lead to infertility in both sexes. In addition, it has been established that phthalates can also cause harm during pregnancy, as they easily penetrate the placenta. In addition to disturbing the normal course of pregnancy, children in the womb of the mother have problems with the reproductive system.

How do phthalates affect the baby's body?

Children often come into contact with objects and articles made of plastic and rubber. This and all kinds of toys, and pacifiers, and cosmetics for the youngest. Studies have shown that children often have problems with emotional behavior. They often suffer from attacks of aggression, scattered attention, can not control their own feelings, they are hyperactive. In addition, the process of puberty is also disrupted. Other studies draw a parallel between the presence of phthalates and excess weight in girls. The relationship between increased concentration of phthalic acid salts and a disease such as asthma is also established. The most vulnerable to the effects of these chemicals are children under the age of three.

Can I protect myself from harmful chemicals?

First of all, it is worth remembering that any sharp, chemical smell of the product is a signal that it may contain dangerous substances. It is best to buy the goods of well-known firms that have all the proper quality certificates and care for their reputation. Children's toys must have a special mark (CE). Many foreign manufacturers strictly regulate fluoride content in products for children. You must always read the packaging, which indicates the composition of the product. With special care is to go to the choice of cosmetics. Today, many enterprises produce funds for beauty and health without phthalate content. Do not abuse waterproof carcasses, shadows. During pregnancy, the use of cosmetics is best minimized, because many manufacturers do not quite honestly indicate the contents of dangerous substances on the package. For repairs, it is also worth purchasing high quality materials and well-known companies. Here the price question is also important. Good finishing material can not be cheap. Sharp smell, lack of proper documentation - that's a good reason to refuse to buy. As in all situations, it is necessary to look for alternative options: stretch ceiling from PVC can be replaced with fabric, industrial cosmetics - natural. It is necessary to abandon plastic packaging and containers for food.

Do phthalates are prohibited?

Toxic phthalates are prohibited in the manufacture of toys and products for children in many countries in Europe and in America. In particular, it is diphthalate, butylphenylphthalate, etc. Several other species are under partial prohibition (before the publication of the results of the study). Many civilized states are already considering the possibility of a ban on the use of phthalates. It is worth noting that it is preferable to use high-molecular compounds of phthalic acid salts (for example, di-zodecyl phthalate). You should also know the marking of different types of plastics. The main sign, which indicates that the plastic is well recycled, is a triangle of arrows. Inside such a symbol is a figure. 1 - the safest kind of plastics. It is used for making packages, containers. Figure 2 also indicates the safety of the use of such plastic in the food industry. Figures 3, 6, and 7 characterize the type of material, from the use of which it is nevertheless worth noting.