Harmful effects of food additives on children's health

Parents are advised to reduce processed and highly packaged foods in their children's diets and increase fresh fruit and vegetables.

The report, titled "Food Additives and Child Health," was published in the journal Pediatrics on July 23.

“As pediatricians, we are particularly concerned about the significant gaps in data on the health effects of many of these chemicals on children,” said Leonardo Trasande, MD, a member of the AAP Council on Environmental Health.

The authors hope the report will spur better regulation of harmful additives. Until then, Dr. Trasande recommends reducing consumption of canned foods, avoiding microwavable plastics, and increasing intake of fresh fruits and vegetables instead of highly processed foods.

Below are four of the common chemicals listed by the authors in the report, including the potential harm they may cause to children's health.

1. Artificial food colors

The report cites studies that found a link between food dyes and increased hyperactivity in some children. After removing synthetic food dyes from their diets, these groups of children experienced a reduction in symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

2. BPA and other bisphenols

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical used to harden plastic packaging and to coat metal cans. While the FDA has banned its use in sippy cups and baby bottles, there are no restrictions on other products.

While some studies have shown that adults can tolerate bisphenol, it may be more harmful to children and young children because their bodies are still developing. Some of the risks mentioned in the report include changes in the timing of puberty, increased body fat, reduced fertility, and more.

3. Phthalates

Phthalates, commonly used in plastic packaging and some other forms of packaging, have been linked to health problems in children such as increased risk of asthma, high blood pressure, obesity, and more.

The report's authors strongly recommend that parents not microwave food or drinks (including infant formula and pumped breast milk) in plastic containers because this can cause phthalates and BPA to leach into the food.

4. Nitrates and nitrites

These additives are used to preserve and enhance the color of foods like processed meats. The report says nitrates and nitrites can interfere with thyroid hormone production and even lead to increased production of cancer-causing compounds in some cases.

Perfluoroalkyl substances, used in food packaging, have also been noted for their harmful effects on the thyroid system.

“Even at a basic level, we understand that thyroid hormone is important not only for brain development but also for heart function, bone function, muscle function,” says Dr. Trasande. “In fact, every organ system is catalyzed by the endocrine function of the thyroid gland.”