We are surrounded by plastics from the moment we open our eyes in the morning until we go to bed at night. It is hard to avoid them, even though research is starting to show that they may be associated with certain health problems. Bisphenol A, a component of a hard clear plastics known as polycarbonates, is considered to be one of the major culprits. BPA free plastic containers are being produced today as one of the results of a rising movement against this substance. Consumers are putting pressure on companies as they become more aware of the possible health hazards.
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.
The main reason why individuals are so concerned about this substance is that it seeps out into the food and drink. When a container is microwaved this seepage occurs at a much faster rate. It is advisable not to microwave polycarbonate as the chemical bonds break down when exposed to high temperatures too often. Even when a container is washed in a dishwasher or with harsh detergents seepage can be accelerated.
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.
An item marked with a number 7 at the bottom inside what looks like a recycle symbol should be avoided as it may contain the chemical. One way to minimize exposure is to replace all plastic with glass. However, this is not always practical. Fortunately it is possible to buy products that are free from this 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.
The main reason why individuals are so concerned about this substance is that it seeps out into the food and drink. When a container is microwaved this seepage occurs at a much faster rate. It is advisable not to microwave polycarbonate as the chemical bonds break down when exposed to high temperatures too often. Even when a container is washed in a dishwasher or with harsh detergents seepage can be accelerated.
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.
An item marked with a number 7 at the bottom inside what looks like a recycle symbol should be avoided as it may contain the chemical. One way to minimize exposure is to replace all plastic with glass. However, this is not always practical. Fortunately it is possible to buy products that are free from this 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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