Think your bedroom is safe? This common item can damage brain during sleep

Bedroom is considered a safe sanctuary for rest and relaxation. One would never imagine that proximity to an everyday item while you sleep could be silently affecting your health, even damaging your brain.

Researchers from Canada found children's mattresses have toxic substances like flame retardants and phthalates that are linked to an increased risk of brain damage and cancer. While flame retardants are used to reduce the flammability of products, phthalates enhance their flexibility.

The team of scientists measured chemicals in the air of children aged between 6 months and 4 years and found concerning levels of more than two dozen phthalates, flame retardants and UV filters. The findings of the study were published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology.

The researchers found the highest levels of the chemicals near children’s beds. A companion study was then carried out to check why and it was found that children’s mattresses were the key source of chemicals. Through a simulation, it was discovered that the warmth and weight of the sleeping child could increase the release of the toxicants.

“They found that even something as simple as a child’s body heat and weight on a mattress can increase the release of toxic chemicals into the air they breathe while sleeping – a factor that current safety standards don’t consider,” Jane Houlihan, research director for Healthy Babies, Bright Futures, an alliance of nonprofits, scientists and donors dedicated to reducing babies’ exposures to neurotoxic chemicals told CNN.

"Parents should be able to lay their children down for sleep knowing they are safe and snug. Flame retardants have a long history of harming our children’s cognitive function and ability to learn. It’s concerning that these chemicals are still being found in children’s mattresses even though we know they have no proven fire-safety benefit, and aren’t needed to comply with flammability standards," said Co-author Arlene Blum, executive director of the Green Science Policy Institute.

Phthalates and flame retardants are chemicals commonly found in household items like mattresses, furniture, and toys. They are also found in, makeup, nail polish, hair spray, body lotion, shampoos and cleansers.

How these chemicals damage children's brainsAffect cognitive function

Exposure to phthalates has been linked to reduced IQ levels in children. A study by NYU Langone Health found that flame retardants contributed to a significant loss of IQ points among children between 2001 and 2016

Behavioural issues

Prenatal exposure to flame retardants, such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), has been associated with attention problems and hyperactivity in children.

Disruption of hormones

Phthalates can play havoc with endocrine system and can affecting hormone levels leading to developmental issues.

Learning issues

Exposure to these chemicals has been linked to an increased risk of learning disabilities, as they may interfere with brain development during critical periods.

How to avoid exposure

• Parents should opt for products made from natural and non-toxic materials like organic cotton or wool.
• Avoid plastic toys and furniture with flame retardants.
• Regularly wash children's bedding and toys to remove chemical residues. Choose low-VOC paints and furniture without added flame retardants.

(Picture courtesy: iStock)