Phthalates are already known to be environmental toxins that effect reproductive development; now a recent study in Pediatrics shows that they are harmful to babies. Infants are especially vulnerable to the developmental and reproductive toxicity of phthalates due to their undeveloped metabolism, and this is evidenced in the concentration of phthalates in their urine. Infants are exposed to phthalates via baby lotions, powders and shampoo.

Phthalates also make plastics flexible, and are found in tablecloths, shower curtains, floor tiles, garden houses, rainwear, ziploc bags, etc. Phthalates are continuously released into the air or leach into liquids, causing exposure through ingestion, inhalation and through the skin. Unfortunately, the U.S. does not require product labeling for phthalate content.

To minimize phthalate exposures, limit the use of infant care products, unless indicated for a medical reason.

PEDIATRICS Vol. 121 No. 2 February 2008, pp. e260-e268.

We just got back from a week-long trip to Hong Kong and Beijing where I had no choice but to eat tons of grease and pesticide-laden food. Some of the cooked vegetables we ate actually had an awful acrid taste so it was nice to finally get back to the farmers market this morning and get right back on my detox. I found incredibly beautiful watermelon radishes at the Santa Monica market and decided to make a little Northern Chinese-inspired salad out of these.  
 
1 Julienned or thinly sliced watermelon radish (you can use any other type of colorful radish)  
2 tablespoons rice or Kopali organic banana vinegar  
1 tablespoon traditionally brewed San-J or Eden soy sauce  
1/2 teaspoon raw cane sugar  
1.5-2 tablespoons La Nogelera walnut oil