Someone asked me this question yesterday. I responded–Although I would not allow them to be on the swim team or sign them up for a summer camp that would have them swimming in chlorine every day, I do allow them to go into chlorine when it comes up. These times are pretty limited all things considered. These times include other kid's birthday parties or playdates at other children's homes-or even the random vacation that might include a chlorinated pool. Do I like it? No, but, I dont want my children to become completely paranoid and need more therapy than I could have already possibly caused them to need:).

We live in a world that sadly includes a lot of toxins and I do my best to limit them to a very high degree. Can I do it completely, no. No one can.

Weirdly yesterday when I was asked this question–my little daughter came home from a day at the pool at someone else's house having left in the morning completely well-with a very high fever and excruciating headache. She had been fine in the pool the entire day but became almost immediately unwell after being in the hot tub! The heat I am certain allows for the pores to open and the chlorine to penetrate much more deeply much more quickly. She was with a sitter who did not know enough to realize she was getting sick from the chlorine. By the time she came home she was so completely ill. Maybe they had just put chlorine in that afternoon or chlorine and bromine. I dont know, she has been in chlorinated hot ubs before. But, use your judgement. If it smells strong, keep them out. Dont intentionally have your kids in chlorine on any regular basis-but also do not create a world of paranoia-just common good sense. The more you limit these toxins the healthier they will be, but, remember-moderation to some degree is probably also wise so create balanced human beings. There will be certain absolute no nos and other things you can lets slide a bit. The where's and whats are up to you!

We can only do the best we can

Well-food for thought!

Dr.M