You’ve probably heard it before: BPA is not good for you. It can harm your health and that of your children and cause serious inflictions on your wellbeing in the future. The problem is: that there seems to be no escaping BPA. It has been around since the 1950s and can be found in plastics, cans, baby bottles, and more. But what exactly is BPA, how does it affect your health and what can you do about it? Here, we do a deep dive into the topic to help you stay informed and protect yourself and your loved ones.
What Is BPA?
Bisphenol A, or BPA, is an industrial chemical used in polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. Food and beverage containers like water bottles are often made from polycarbonate plastics. In addition, they may be used in certain consumer goods. Epoxy resins are typically found inside food cans, water supply lines, and bottle tops as they coat the inside of metal products. Certain dental sealants and composites may also contain BPA. It is concerning to our health because some research has shown that BPA can transfer from packaging into food and beverages and, in turn, be ingested by us.
Why Is BPA Bad for Us?
Studies show that BPA is concerning in terms of its effect on behavior, the brain, and prostate glands in fetuses, infants, and young children.
According to medically-reviewed reports published on WebMD, BPA may harm our health in the following ways:
Brain and behavior issues – The National Toxicology Program at the FDA has stated its concern about the possible side effects on the brain and behavior of infants and young children caused by BPA.
Heart problems – According to two studies, adults with the highest levels of BPA in their bodies have a higher incidence of heart problems. It’s not entirely clear whether this is related to BPA.
Cancer – Certain studies suggest there may be a link between BPA exposure and a later increased risk of cancer.
Hormone levels – According to some experts, BPA may act like a hormone in the body, and disrupt normal hormone levels as well as the development in fetuses, babies, and children.
Increased risk to children – Some researchers believe that BPA may be more harmful to children and infants as their bodies are still developing and less efficient at eliminating substances from their systems.
Fertility in men and women – BPA is also believed to have an impact on human fertility. It may cause testicular dysgenesis syndrome, cryptorchidism, cancers, decreased fertility in males, and follicle loss in females.
Other conditions – Since BPA is one of the most common synthetic chemicals in the human body from plastic bottles, food packaging, and dental materials, researchers are continuing to study its effects of it on obesity, diabetes, ADHD, and other health conditions.
How to Limit Your BPA Exposure
Naturally, you may be concerned about exposure to BPA and possible side effects on your health. But there are a number of ways in which you can limit your exposure, such as:
Avoid heat – Never use plastic containers in the microwave or dishwasher, as the heat can cause them to break down over time and allow BPA to leach into your food.
Use BPA-free products – With people demanding more health-conscious options, manufacturers are now producing BPA-free products and containers. Make sure the products you buy are labeled as BPA-free. Do note that plastics that have recycle code 3 or 7 on them may contain BPA.
Focus on fresh whole foods – Eat fresh whole fruits and vegetables, especially cruciferous vegetables, which have been shown to deal with endocrine disruptors by removing them from the body.
Cook with alternative containers – Use glass, porcelain, or stainless-steel containers instead of plastic to cook and store hot foods and liquids.
One great way to limit your BPA exposure and also contribute to reducing plastic is by using Ocean Bottles. Browse our many beautiful designs and start living healthier and BPA-free today!
References:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25813067
https://www.webmd.com/children/bpa
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5977157
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/bpa/faq-20058331
