Bisphenol A, or more commonly known as BPA, is a synthetic chemical compound used to make certain epoxys and plastics. BPA-based plastic is used in water bottles, sports equipment, CDs, and DVDs. Phthalates are are other kind of chemicals used in plastics to increase their flexibility, transparency, durability, and longevity.
Researchers have found a link between these chemicals destabilizing our hormones, and two big public health threats: obesity and diabetes type 2.
These chemicals belong to a group called endocrine-disrupting chemicals, or EDCs for short. They are found in items we come to contact on a daily basis, such as food cans, cosmetics, pesticides, cash register receipts, and even the good old wine that some of us like to drink after a long day or when socializing. EDCs are so common that nearly everyone on earth has been exposed.
EDCs mimic hormones or interfere with their function, and because hormones have very important roles in the body, EDCs mess with with the body’s natural functions.
EDCs mimic hormones or interfere with their function, and because hormones have very important roles in the body, EDCs mess with with the body’s natural functions. This can impact biological functions such as cell growth, reproduction, sleeping or eating. A report issued in the US Endocrine Society suggests that these chemical cal also add to the risk of obesity and diabetes.
The evidence shows a long-term epidemiological study showing that people exposed to EDCs increase their chances of developing obesity and type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, the study also presents growing evidence of links between EDC exposure and other health issues, such as infertility, neurological disorders, and hormone related cancers.
The report suggests that the highest risk in unborn children exposed to EDCs while in the womb. The researchers found that, in animals, this type of exposure leads to obesity later in life, can affect pancreas, liver, and fat cells, which leads to insulin resistance. So far, they haven’t managed to describe exactly how it happens.
But don’t throw away all you plastic product away just yet! The US Food and Drug Administration assures that the BPA levels in food containers is safe. However, try to get BPA-free containers the next time you need a new one, that’s what I do. Better yet, use glass, it’s BPA-free, eco-friendly, easier to clean, doesn’t hold odors, doesn’t scratch, and will outlast a plastic container (if you don’t break it).
