Pocket Seafood Selector: Don't Go to the Fish Market without It!

There are loads of misleading (and very confusing) information about mercury levels in seafood. We never know which ones are safer to eat. Well, not anymore. The Environmental Defense Fund organization released this useful Pocket Seafood Selector, rating types of fishes good for consumption and the environment. Listed by Best, OK and Worst Choices, it also indicates great options rich in essential Omega-3 oils, and bad ones with high mercury levels. Click here to check it out!

Common Household Toxic Chemicals

We are exposed to several toxins on a daily basis, and sometimes are not aware of how easy it is to avoid them by recognizing the sources.

Here is a list of list of the seven most common toxic chemicals found in your home:

Chemical	Health Effects*	Common Exposure Sources
Bisphenol A (BPA)	Birth defects; hormone disruptor	Polycarbonate plastic; canned foods and beverages
Lead	Toxic to brain and nervous system; decreased IQ; aggression and hyperactivity disorders	Lead based paint; household dust; outdoor soils; consumer products
Mercury	Toxic to brain and nervous system	Consumption of contaminated fish and shellfish
Perchlorate	Interferes with iodine uptake of thyroid gland, which regulates hormones necessary for proper development	Drinking water; consumption of irrigated crops; milk
Phthalates	Hormone disruptor; birth defects; reproductive disease; reduced sperm counts; heart disease; diabetes	Polyvinyl chloride plastic; household cleaners and other products with synthetic fragrance; cosmetics; food packaging
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)	Interfere with brain development and may be linked to hyperactivity; toxic to reproductive system	Flame retardants used in electronics, polyurethane foam in upholstered furniture and mattresses, black out drapes and textiles that off-gas and can be found in household dust and food
Triclosan	Toxic to liver; disrupts thyroid hormone system (necessary for development); may cause cancer	Antibacterial agent used in liquid soap, beauty products and cleaning products

The following has been excerpted from the book Smart Mama's Green Guide: Simple Steps to Reduce Your Child's Toxic Chemical Exposure by Jennifer Taggart.

Eco Giveaway Reminder: The Coolest Green Truck!

We rated the Recycle Truck from Green Toys the coolest green truck, and it can be yours this Christmas!

Become Fan of Eco.Logical.Mom on Facebook by December 12, 2009 and be entered to win this fantastic Christmas gift!

Made in the US from 100% recycled milk jugs, your little one will learn recycling basics with this eco truck. It has a movable recycling bed and open/shut rear door.

Good Luck!

Organic Velour Finger Puppet

These puppets are adorable, and absolutely safe for infants and toddlers. Made of organic and BPA free materials, they come in sets of 3. Kids can make a real puppet party!
Made by Green Sprouts, sold through Amazon.com