Plastic is all around us. From automobiles to televisions, plastic comprises most of what we use. Can you think of one thing that you use every day that does not contain plastic?
My quest to lead the cleanest and healthiest lifestyle began more than 20 years ago. In my research, I learned a lot about the harmful effects of plastic on our health and the health of our planet. The chemicals used to manufacture plastic can harm your health and the environment.
One chemical that has received a lot of attention is Bisphenol A, known as BPA. BPA is found in the coating of receipts, plastic bottles and the lining of canned food. BPA is an Endocrine (hormone) Disrupting Chemical (EDC).
Research has shown when EDCs are introduced into our bodies they “can block, mimic, or otherwise disrupt normal hormone signals.” This can lead to disease and other health problems. Many manufacturers eliminated BPAs and now tout their products as BPA-Free, but that chemical has been replaced with two others — BPS and BPF — that carry their own health risks
EDCs are everywhere. They are in our air, plastics, pesticides, flame retardants, fragrances, toys, clothing cosmetics, sunscreens, electronics, furniture, cleaning products, lawn care products, automobiles, building materials, food, and food packaging.
That may seem overwhelming, but there are a few things you can do to minimize your contact with EDCs and potentially make a big impact on your health.
• Use glass or stainless steel vessels/containers for food and drinks.
• Avoid touching your receipts from the store.
• Do not reuse your plastic food or bottle containers.
• Do not microwave your food in plastic or covered in plastic wrap.
• Buy fresh or frozen vegetables. Canned food is lined with BPA.
• If you must use plastic, look at the recycling symbol on the bottom of your plastic containers. Numbers 2, 4 and 5 are the “safer” plastics. To avoid a higher probability of plastic leaching, don’t allow the container to heat up or freeze.
Kudos Magazine Issue 4.1