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Green Baby
A New Parent's Guide to Going Organic
By Sue Poremba
Dr. Geary adds that preservatives are readily absorbed into the intestinal tract and are difficult for the body to clear. Small children are especially more vulnerable as their bodies are growing rapidly and they absorb more of the preservatives for their size than do adults.
Dr. Kaayla Daniel, a nutritionist in Albuquerque, N.M., says that organic food is generally richer in nutrient content and free from toxic residue. "I recommend that parents feed their babies organic foods because of the lower levels of pesticides and herbicides," Dr. Daniel says.
Buying Organic
If you are looking for organic products for your baby, Dr. Daniel says you should look for items with the Certified Organic seal. "Note the PLU code found on those pesky little stickers that we have to dig off produce," she says. "If it is organic, it should begin with a nine, followed by four other numbers. The freshest and best quality products generally come from local organic farmers. When buying locally, [it's] best to buy from farmers you know personally and can trust, given the fact many small farmers do not get their produce officially certified." When most people think organic, they think food. However, there are a number of other organic options available. They include the following:
- Skincare products for babies, although parents should carefully read labels. According to Dr. Geary, look for oils rather than fragrances, and watch for ingredients like methyl and propyl parabens.
- Diapers, beddng and clothing (organic cotton is most popular).
