Plastics Plastics have certainly made our lives more convenient as we use them to store and transport food and liquids, to create toys, plumbing, and a number of other products. While our lives may be more convenient, our bodies and creation have become less pure. Through learning more about how plastics harm our bodies and God's creation, we can begin to detoxify and restore our relationships with all creation and the Creator. Many plastics contain pthalates. Phthalates(pronounced thalate)are synthetic chemicals used to make plastics bendable,and to hold scent and color in detergents, soaps, and shampoos. Phthalates are found in toothbrushes, blood storage bags, automobile parts, personal care products, nail polishes, shower curtains, and food packaging. Phthalates are also common in a number of children’s plastic toys and cups. Update Congress approves consumer law to ban phthalates in children's products. Read more here. The health effects of phthalate exposure include birth defects, cancer, damage to the liver and kidneys, and asthma. These chemicals are also suspected by the EPA to be endocrine disruptersTests are currently underway to learn more.   Microwaving food in plastic containers can also release toxic chemicals that can cause cancer. By transporting food into a ceramic or glass dish before microwaving, we can prevent exposure to these carcinogens. More on Endocrine Disrupters The Endocrine system is responsible for much of the body’s functioning and development. The endocrine glands include the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, thymus, pancreas, ovaries, and testes. These glands release carefully measured amounts of hormones to control many of our life functions. Endocrine disruptors can either halt or stimulate the production of hormones, or change the way hormones travel through the body. This could change the timing or way that bodily development and functions occur. We are all vulnerable to endocrine disruptors. Children, infants and fetuses are particularly vulnerable as their bodies are still developing. Through seeking out alternatives to the harmful plastics, we in turn can make our lives and our hearts purer, and show our reverence to creation and the Creator of all things. People of Faith Take Action Catholic Healthcare West switches to PVC-free blood bags to protect health and creation What we can do Avoid plastic toys with PVC on the label. Purchase bottles or sippy cups with a #1, 2, 4, or 5 in the label. Purchase wooden or cloth toys for your children. Avoid microwaving plastic containers. Look for unscented personal care products and detergents. Look for "phthalate-free" nail polish, or avoid using it. Prepare your own leftovers to take to school or work instead of pre-packaged, microwaveable meals. Learn more Download new report on phthalates in children's toys from Washington State's toxic free legacy coalition. Natural Resources Defense Council Healthy Legacy Coalition Not Too Pretty- A report on pthalates and personal care products. Click here for more information on plastics and food on the NCC Eco-Justice site. Learn more about environmental health Issues from the NCC Environmental Health- Home Toxics Environmental Justice and Health Children’s and Women’s Health Lead NEW Pesticides Cosmetics NEW Our daily Bread- Food and Health Plastics Mercury- Our Children’s Inheritance Air Quality Flame Retardants Take Action!