Lead exposure to children can lead to various health complications. However, many parents do not realize exactly how their children are exposed to lead in their daily lives. The most common source of lead exposure occurs in homes that were built before 1978. In those homes, lead-based paint was often used along with lead water pipes. Today, lead is still found in many toys and jewelry. Since it is so likely that a child will face exposure at some point in their life, it is important for parents to understand the symptoms, testing process, as well as ways to lower their child’s lead levels.
Because children often will not present with symptoms of high lead levels, you should have your doctor order a blood test for your child if you believe that they may have significant exposure to lead. Health effects of lead exposure include brain and nervous system damage, slow development, learning and behavior problems, and hearing and speech problems.
To lower your child’s blood levels, the first thing you should do is plan with your doctor to assess their developmental progress. Then, you should determine the source of lead exposure. By doing both of these things, you will be able to prevent further exposure and identify early indicators of high lead levels. The best way that a parent can reduce blood lead levels in their child is by changing their diet. Introducing a diet high in iron, calcium, and vitamin C helps to lower blood lead levels.
Here is a list of food/ingredients that would be beneficial to include in your diet!
- Calcium: Milk, yogurt, cheese, leafy green vegetables (spinach, kale, broccoli, etc.)
- Iron: lean red meats, beans, peanut butter, most cereals
- Vitamin C: oranges, green and red peppers, 100% fruit juice
Written By: Sierra Troutman
Sources: https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/overview.html
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