Plastics are everywhere today and are used for numerous different purposes. However, research is starting to reveal that some of their components may be damaging to our health. The component many individuals are particularly concerned about is Bisphenol A. This is found in the hard, clear plastics often used for making bottles and many other items used to contain food and beverages. Concern about exposure has arisen to the extent that many companies now produce BPA free plastic containers. It is possible to source them more easily now, including from 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.
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.
More and more BPA-free products are now available and they are labeled as BPA-free. If a product is not labeled, keep in mind that some, but not all, plastics marked with recycle codes 3 or 7 may be made with BPA. If one is serious about reducing exposure, it is best to avoid these.
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.
More and more BPA-free products are now available and they are labeled as BPA-free. If a product is not labeled, keep in mind that some, but not all, plastics marked with recycle codes 3 or 7 may be made with BPA. If one is serious about reducing exposure, it is best to avoid these.
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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Get an overview of the benefits of using BPA free plastic containers and view our selection of plastic containers at http://farberwarefoodstorage.com now.
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