What Is BPA
BPA - or Bisphenol A is a chemical used in the production of polycarbonate plastics.
Where is BPA found?
Polycarbonate plastics are used in food and drink packaging, including many water bottles (reusable and otherwise) and even big brand baby bottles. They are also used to coat aluminium products such as tin cans and some sports bottles.
What's the problem with BPA?
One of the main concerns is that certain plastics aren't as stable and inert as was once thought. In the case of polycarbonates, BPA can leach out of plastic packaging or lining that contains it. Which is why studies have found a presence of it in human urine, breast milk, saliva, serum, amniotic fluid, and cord blood.
When we learned about this, we were uncomfortable with the idea of such a chemical getting into our bodies and worse again, being passed on to our children in early infancy, or even in the womb! And the news just gets worse.
In recent years there have been big question marks hanging over just how damaging BPA might be to our health. Research has linked BPA with disrupting the function of hormones, obesity, and other health issues. In her report What You Should Know About Bisphenol A, Dr. Donna Schwontkowski points out that in over 100 studies, BPA has been linked to:
- altering cell-to-cell signalling pathways on the cell surface to allow calcium efflux in cells
- persistent changes to breast tissue
- permanent changes to the genital tract
- decreased antioxidant enzymes
- increased prostate weight
- increased aggression
- earlier puberty
- breast cells predisposed to cancer
- decreased testosterone
- insulin resistance
- decreased maternal behaviours
- damage to eggs and chromosomes
- reversed the normal sex differences in the brain structure and behaviour
- hyperactivity
- disrupts 200 genes
- spurs the formation and growth of fat cells
- tied to polycystic ovary syndrome
- acts as a female sex hormone
What can I do to reduce BPA exposure?
- Avoid polycarbonate containers (look for the number 7 on the bottom of the bottle).
- If you do use polycarbonate food containers, don't microwave as heat causes the BPA to leach out and the plastic to break down.
- Don't wash polycarbonate plastic containers in the dishwasher with harsh detergents.
- Reduce your use of canned foods. Eat fresh or frozen foods.
- When possible, opt for glass, porcelain or stainless steel containers or those labelled BPA free.
