My new favorite feature on Green Mamma is the Green Friend of the Week post. Inspiring green friends from previous weeks include Abbie and Allison I am delighted when I discover another green friend because I feel as though I am rewarded when these inspirational and knowledgeable people teach me more about green parenting and environmentalism. This week we travel to Ansonia, Connecticut to meet Jen, a new mom to an adorable baby girl named Zoe.
When Jen and her husband started preparing to have a baby, Jen wanted to ensure that she would not only conceive healthfully and grow a healthy baby, but also that she might prevent future health problems that could crop up later in her child’s life, such as cancer and infertility.
Jen focused her pre-conception research on a class of chemicals called phthalates, which are used to bind chemicals in personal care products and are also used as a softener in plastics. According to the Portland Press Herald, “Phthalates too are linked to developmental problems, including premature breast development in girls and male genital defects.”
Jen considered the potential risks of phthlates and bisphenol-A, or BPA, to be reasons enough to avoid all products containing these dangerous chemicals. She explains, ” I was alarmed because these additives are endocrine disrupters and are known to mimic estrogen, which can cause reproductive problems in developing fetuses, infants and toddlers. I have since changed almost all of my beauty products, personal care products and household cleaners with natural or organic brands.”
Products that Jen recommends using while conceiving, pregnant, and for the care of oneself and one’s children include:
And because she is a breastfeeding mother on the go (and who needs to pump), Jen prefers the following BPA-free bottles:
Jen works hard at being environmentally conscious. To cultivate a green lifestyle, she and her family:
- use reusable bags when shopping
- recycle
- buy local dairy products without the use of hormones and antibiotics
- buy free range, organic eggs and meats
- buy lots of fair trade items
- install energy efficiant bulbs throughout her new home
A true idealist and green minded mamma, Jen says, “I know that I could do much more but I am gradually making more and more changes to live a greener life.” Way to go Jen. Thank you for being our green friend this week and a green mamma to your adorable Zoe.
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