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 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.
This chemical has been found to act as an endocrine disruptor. This means that it acts like estrogen in the body and even a small amount can cause changes. Some of the health problems suspected to be linked to exposure are breast cancer, testicular cancer, behavioral changes, immune dysfunction and more recently heart problems and diabetes.
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.
Polycarbonate plastics are used widely in the manufacture of many items. This included food and drink packaging like water and infant bottles. Epoxy resins are used to coat metal products such as food cans and bottle tops. Increasing awareness on the part of consumers means that pressure is being placed on manufacturers to find alternatives.
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 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.
This chemical has been found to act as an endocrine disruptor. This means that it acts like estrogen in the body and even a small amount can cause changes. Some of the health problems suspected to be linked to exposure are breast cancer, testicular cancer, behavioral changes, immune dysfunction and more recently heart problems and diabetes.
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.
Polycarbonate plastics are used widely in the manufacture of many items. This included food and drink packaging like water and infant bottles. Epoxy resins are used to coat metal products such as food cans and bottle tops. Increasing awareness on the part of consumers means that pressure is being placed on manufacturers to find alternatives.
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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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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