How to Protect Your Kids From Lead Exposure

Lead is a metal that can seriously harm your child's health. Even small amounts of lead can cause:

• Brain and nerve damage
• Learning and behavior problems
• Slowed growth
• Hearing and speech problems

Most children don’t show any signs of lead poisoning. Some may have stomach aches, feel tired or irritable, or be constipated.

If your child is 1-2 years old or you suspect that they could have lead poisoning, get them tested. Your child's doctor can do a simple finger-prick test to check for exposure.

Where Is Lead Found?

1. Paint in homes built before 1978
   1. Clean and dust surfaces often.
   2. Don't allow your child to play near old windows or in bare soil.
2. Water pumped through lead pipes
   1. Use only cold water for drinking and cooking (hot water can contain more lead).
   2. If water has been sitting in the pipes for a long period of time without being used, let the water run for 30 seconds before using it.
3. Certain toys and jewelry
   1. Watch what goes in your child's mouth.
   2. Wash your child's hands and toys often.
4. Traditional home remedies or imported items such as candies, makeup, or clay pottery
   1. Avoid using these products, or use them for decoration only.
   2. Don't let children eat or play with candies or use cosmetics from other countries.
5. Some work environments may increase your exposure to lead-based products (building renovations, auto repair shops, etc.).
   1. Take off your shoes before entering your home.
   2. Change clothes and shower after work.
   3. Keep work clothes separate from family laundry.

Good Nutrition Can Help Keep Your Kids Safe

Eating a variety of healthy foods helps protect your family from lead's harmful effects. Make sure your family gets enough:

Iron helps block lead absorption and is found in:

• WIC-approved cereals
• Lean meats (beef, chicken, turkey, fish)
• Beans, peas, and lentils
• Dark leafy greens (kale, spinach, collard greens)
• Dried fruit

Vitamin C helps your body use iron better and is found in:

• Oranges, grapefruit, strawberries, and melons
• Tomatoes
• Bell peppers
• Broccoli
• Potatoes
• 100% juice

Calcium also helps block lead absorption and is found in:

• Milk, yogurt, and cheese
• Calcium-fortified orange juice
• Dark leafy greens (kale, spinach, collard greens)