Doctors are growing more concerned about some chemicals still allowed in U.S. foods and their packaging. Some 10,000 chemicals allowed in our foods may be affecting your child’s hormones and development.

The American Academy of Pediatrics released a new policy statement, warning parents that when children ingest harmful chemicals in their food and food packaging, their health will suffer. They recommend that parents consider avoiding plastic containers, processed meats, and other foods containing high amounts of additives.

The August issue of Pediatrics states that there are now 10,000 chemicals allowed in food by U.S. standards. According to Dr. Leonardo Transande (lead author and pediatric expert), children are susceptible to these chemicals more so than adults because their does of exposure are higher, relative to their body weight. Because they are still developing, the chemicals could affect them long-term.

The warning is a result of two decades worth of scientific research. Doctors have been monitoring effects of these chemicals on children’s health, and the negative evidence is increasing. “The research really does show that (the chemicals) can cause health problems, some of which could be very serious. And because the exposure is small and gradual, we don’t even realize it’s happening,” says Dr. Claire McCarthy, a Boston Children’s Hospital physician.

What chemicals should you watch out for?

If you’re a parent concerned about these chemicals, watch out for these six additives and limit your child’s exposure.

Artificial Food Colors: Suspected to worsen symptoms of ADHD.

Bisphenols: These chemicals, such as BPA, are used to harden plastic containers and line metal cans. They have the ability to mimic the effects of estrogen and may cause a change in the timing of puberty. Doctors have also suspected that they can decrease fertility, increase body fat, and affect both nervous and immune systems.

Nitrates: Often used in meats, nitrates preserve foods longer and enhance color. They can cause problems with thyroid hormone production and the blood’s oxygen-delivering abilities.

Phthalates: Used to make plastic and vinyl tubes flexible. Phthalates may affect male genital development, could increase risk of childhood obesity, and lead to heart disease.

Perfluoroalkyls: Made for grease-proof paper and cardboard food packaging. Suspected to weaken immunity and negatively affect birth weight and fertility.

Perchlorate: This additive is included in some dry food packaging to decrease static electricity. Studies show that it can disrupt thyroid function, and slow early brain development.

The group suggests the following if you want to start cutting out those nasty chemicals from your family’s diet:

-Eat fruits and vegetables that are fresh and frozen and avoid processed meats.

-Don’t microwave your food and drinks in plastic, especially infant formula and breast milk. The heat may cause chemicals to seep into your food. For the same reason, avoid washing your plastic dishes in the dishwasher.

-Opt for glass or stainless steel containers instead of plastic when possible.

-Don’t eat canned goods. The cans are often exposed to bisphenol.

-If you must use plastic, check the recycling code. Don’t use Codes 3, 6, or 7, unless they’re labeled as “bio based” or “green ware.”

-Use wax paper or aluminum foil instead of plastic wrap.

Start making these changes to keep your kids healthy, but don’t panic. Swanson assures parents that there is no need to stress out if you find you can’t completely remove the chemicals, “Don’t freak out — we can’t control everything — but do decrease your use of plastics as much as you can.”