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.
Researchers became concerned when their mice began developing abnormalities as a result of exposure to plastics in bottles and cages. Many animal studies were conducted, showing a definite link between health problems and the chemical. There are no definitive human studies yet but it has been found that most people contain this chemical in their urine.
The major problem associated with this chemical is that it does not just stay put but leaches into food or beverages. This effect is accelerated when a container is heated up in a microwave or even washed in a dishwasher. This is because the chemical bonds unravel with heating, washing or even exposure to acidic foods.
The effects of this chemical in the body are suspected to be widespread. It appears to act as an endocrine disrupter, mimicking estrogen and disturbing the delicate balance of hormones. This is thought to result in all sorts of problems from breast and prostate cancer to increased chances of becoming obese. Although we are not absolutely sure yet about the effects on human health, there is enough evidence to make individuals aware that it is better to minimize their exposure.
Some studies suggest that possible effects from exposure to this chemical could be most pronounced in fetuses and infants. This is because their bodies are still developing and they are not as good at elimination of substances. These studies have been taken to heart by pregnant women and parents who worry about effects such as changes in the brain and behavior.
It is actually difficult to do this as the substance is used to manufacture many different products and is sometimes even found in unexpected places. Some items are water and baby bottles, food pouches and baby cups. A number of companies that make baby bottles and cups for infants have stopped using BPA in their products and manufacturers of infant formula do not use it in their cans.
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.
Another simple step to take is to make sure that products with BPA labels are purchased. Fortunately these are not hard to find today. It is even possible to find them at online stores and if you buy these from reputable suppliers, you should have no cause for complaint. You will be one step closer to protecting the health of your family.
Researchers became concerned when their mice began developing abnormalities as a result of exposure to plastics in bottles and cages. Many animal studies were conducted, showing a definite link between health problems and the chemical. There are no definitive human studies yet but it has been found that most people contain this chemical in their urine.
The major problem associated with this chemical is that it does not just stay put but leaches into food or beverages. This effect is accelerated when a container is heated up in a microwave or even washed in a dishwasher. This is because the chemical bonds unravel with heating, washing or even exposure to acidic foods.
The effects of this chemical in the body are suspected to be widespread. It appears to act as an endocrine disrupter, mimicking estrogen and disturbing the delicate balance of hormones. This is thought to result in all sorts of problems from breast and prostate cancer to increased chances of becoming obese. Although we are not absolutely sure yet about the effects on human health, there is enough evidence to make individuals aware that it is better to minimize their exposure.
Some studies suggest that possible effects from exposure to this chemical could be most pronounced in fetuses and infants. This is because their bodies are still developing and they are not as good at elimination of substances. These studies have been taken to heart by pregnant women and parents who worry about effects such as changes in the brain and behavior.
It is actually difficult to do this as the substance is used to manufacture many different products and is sometimes even found in unexpected places. Some items are water and baby bottles, food pouches and baby cups. A number of companies that make baby bottles and cups for infants have stopped using BPA in their products and manufacturers of infant formula do not use it in their cans.
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.
Another simple step to take is to make sure that products with BPA labels are purchased. Fortunately these are not hard to find today. It is even possible to find them at online stores and if you buy these from reputable suppliers, you should have no cause for complaint. You will be one step closer to protecting the health of your family.
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