Fight lead with good nutrition

Lead-based paint was banned in 1978, but houses built before then probably still contain leaded paint. Children, particularly under the age of six, are most at risk from even small amounts of lead, and the damage can be permanent. But there are things you can do to protect your kids. Read on to learn more about the symptoms and causes of lead poisoning, how to help prevent it, how to have your child screened, and how to make the healthiest choices for your family.

	Make sure your child is eating healthy foods:
Feed your child a diet high in calcium (milk, yogurt, cheese, etc.), iron (green leafy vegetables, eggs, red meats, and beans), and low-fat foods, since a healthy diet helps the body absorb less lead. Don't skip meals. An empty stomach aids the body’s ability to absorb lead dust. Fight Lead Poisoning with a Healthy Diet (pdf) Combata el Envenenamiento con Plomo con una dieta sauldable (pdf) Call the Coalition to Prevent Lead Poisoning at (585) 256-2267 to request a DVD or VHS copy of “Lead Awareness for Parents.” This 10 minute DVD/video provides provides nutritional information to combat lead poisoning and lists additional local resources. Available in English, Spanish/Español, and American Sign Language (ASL), this program was produced with the support of WXXI and the Rochester Area Community Foundation. Some imported candies contain lead. Don't let your children eat these Toxic Treats.