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.
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.
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.
Some animal studies have indicated that fetuses and infants are most vulnerable to the effects of this chemical. Pregnant women would do well to try to avoid it as much as possible and parents should also try to reduce exposure of their small children. There is enough evidence available to influence many people to avoid exposure as far as possible.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Some animal studies have indicated that fetuses and infants are most vulnerable to the effects of this chemical. Pregnant women would do well to try to avoid it as much as possible and parents should also try to reduce exposure of their small children. There is enough evidence available to influence many people to avoid exposure as far as possible.
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.
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.
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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