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Plastics are very much a part of our world today. However, concerns have arisen as to how much damage they might actually be doing to our health. One of the controversial substances receiving attention is Bisphenol A. This is found in hard, clear plastics called polycarbonates, used to manufacture numerous items, including food and drink containers. Many consumers are buying BPA free plastic containers today in an attempt to limit their exposure to this chemical and they are available from a number of different sources, including online stores.
This chemical caught the attention of researchers when it appeared to be affecting mice. This was established to come from the plastic water bottles and cages being used. Many animal studies have been published since then, finding a significant relationship between negative effects on health and exposure to even a small amount of this substance.
This proves that it does in fact seep out of the plastics and into the food and drink. Microwaving can speed up the process considerably. Even dishwashers and use of harsh chemicals or acidic foods can hasten the process.
Once this chemical gets into the body, it appears to mimic estrogen. The body is very sensitive to sex hormones and exposure to even small amounts of this endocrine disruptor can produce significant changes. Some conditions associated with exposure are altered immune function, breast and testicular cancer, increased risk of obesity, behavioral changes and more recently it has been linked to diabetes and heart problems. The effects on human health appear to be extensive and until more is known, many individuals are making an effort to avoid it as far as possible.
Women who want to have children and those who are already pregnant should be particularly careful of exposure. Some animal studies suggest that fetuses and newborns are harmed most when exposed to the chemical, even if it is in small doses. It has been linked to genetic defects and miscarriages.
Unfortunately, this substance is widely used in the manufacture of bottles, plates, food packaging, pouches for food storage, baby cups and a plethora of other items. Even items like tin cans use protective linings containing this substance. As more and more consumers are becoming aware of the suspected negative effects they are putting pressure on companies to provide alternatives.
There are individuals who go about replacing all plastics in their home with glass. However, this is an expensive exercise that is not always possible for everyone. One of the simplest ways to go about minimizing exposure is to avoid buying items with a 7 or 3 inside the recycle symbol on the bottom of a container as it may contain the substance.
It is hard to eliminate all exposure as BPA can sometimes be found in extremely unlikely places. It does make sense, however, to attempt to reduce exposure as far as possible. There are a range of containers available today, including from online stores, that are labeled BPA-free.
This chemical caught the attention of researchers when it appeared to be affecting mice. This was established to come from the plastic water bottles and cages being used. Many animal studies have been published since then, finding a significant relationship between negative effects on health and exposure to even a small amount of this substance.
This proves that it does in fact seep out of the plastics and into the food and drink. Microwaving can speed up the process considerably. Even dishwashers and use of harsh chemicals or acidic foods can hasten the process.
Once this chemical gets into the body, it appears to mimic estrogen. The body is very sensitive to sex hormones and exposure to even small amounts of this endocrine disruptor can produce significant changes. Some conditions associated with exposure are altered immune function, breast and testicular cancer, increased risk of obesity, behavioral changes and more recently it has been linked to diabetes and heart problems. The effects on human health appear to be extensive and until more is known, many individuals are making an effort to avoid it as far as possible.
Women who want to have children and those who are already pregnant should be particularly careful of exposure. Some animal studies suggest that fetuses and newborns are harmed most when exposed to the chemical, even if it is in small doses. It has been linked to genetic defects and miscarriages.
Unfortunately, this substance is widely used in the manufacture of bottles, plates, food packaging, pouches for food storage, baby cups and a plethora of other items. Even items like tin cans use protective linings containing this substance. As more and more consumers are becoming aware of the suspected negative effects they are putting pressure on companies to provide alternatives.
There are individuals who go about replacing all plastics in their home with glass. However, this is an expensive exercise that is not always possible for everyone. One of the simplest ways to go about minimizing exposure is to avoid buying items with a 7 or 3 inside the recycle symbol on the bottom of a container as it may contain the substance.
It is hard to eliminate all exposure as BPA can sometimes be found in extremely unlikely places. It does make sense, however, to attempt to reduce exposure as far as possible. There are a range of containers available today, including from online stores, that are labeled BPA-free.
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