Lead is in the air………..causing ADHD?

February – the month of hearts, chocolates and wonderful gifts. Is love in the Air … or is it Lead??!! As we look to have a romantic time with our loved ones, remember that those candles you may be burning could be releasing lead, perfumes, paraffin and carcinogenic dyes. I don’t mean to ruin the mood or ambience – just beware!

A recent study published in the February 2010 issue of Psychological Science (Current Directions) states that lead may be a cause of ADHD, according to Joel Nigg, (a psychological scientist at Oregon Health & Science University). He stated that lead might disrupt brain activity in a way that leads to hyperactivity and attention problem. The American Association of Psychological Science states that lead is a prime suspect among possible environmental causes of ADHD. Researchers have been trying to determine the cause for 30% of cases – since genes are believed to be responsible for up to 70% of ADHD in children.

Where is lead found?

Lead is a known neurotoxin, and has been found in nearly all US children at varying levels, the report stated. It can be found in the soil, (which can be later tracked into our homes), our drinking water and costume jewelry in addition to candles. The focus of this blog is candles. Once they are burned, the lead is airborne. Besides breathing the lead fumes, children are more at risk because the particulates are left on the floor, furniture and walls – and then children put their hands in their mouths.

Do we REALLY need to risk it?

Of course, the best thing would to not burn candles at all. Even if you have an all-natural candle with essential oils, bees-wax and cotton wicks – you are still breathing particulates in the air.  Breathing any type of pollution is not good. But, for those who insist on the ambience of candles – here are a few tips:

- The National Candle Association says to take a piece of white paper and rub it on the tip of an un-burned wick. If no mark is left, the candle is lead-free. If the wick leaves a light grey pencil-line mark, it has a lead core.
- Don’t use candles in jars when the candle leaves a soot ring on the jar’s lip. It may be lead dust.
- Look for beeswax candles with pure paper or cotton wicks.
- Try aromatherapy by putting a few drops of 100% pure essential oil in boiling water or in a defuser – a tray with a light bulb to heat it.

Protect your kids and family from preventable long-term damage. Love is not in the air when we are breathing lead. Long-term irreversible damage is done. Prevention is key to keeping our indoor air healthy.

Have a Healthy-n-Green® Valentines Day! (buy some chocolate:o)
xox

February Healthy-n-Green® Tip: Personal Care Products