BPA (Bisphenol A) is a chemical that is common in many everyday items and has the potential to disrupt our hormones.
BPA is an industrial chemical used primarily in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. These materials can be found in numerous consumer goods such as water bottles, food storage containers, and linings for metal products.
It is also present in other everyday items like dental sealants, thermal paper receipts, paints, toys, inks, electronic equipment, building materials, and CDs. In addition to this, BPA can also be found in our water supply.
BPA has the potential to disrupt the functioning of our hormones. It could have adverse health affects in reproduction, cognitive behavior, gland development, and metabolism.
Although BPA could have adverse health effects on humans, it is unlikely for typical exposure levels to cause health problems because of how quickly it is metabolized and eliminated from the body.
BPA can enter our body through various routes, but the most common way is through dietary intake. The chemical can leach out of storage containers onto the foods and beverages that we consume, especially if the storage containers are heated or damaged.
BPA can also be absorbed through the skin when handling items like receipts or plastics. Additionally, inhalation of dust particles containing BPA is another route of exposure, particularly in environments where BPA-containing products are manufactured or frequently used.
Being exposed to excessive amounts of BPA has been linked to hormonal disruption because of how it can mimic estrogen and interfere with the endocrine system.
Excessive and long-term exposure to BPA is very concerning and can be associated with a range of health issues including reproductive disorders, heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Studies have also suggested a link between abnormal BPA exposure and developmental problems in children, as well as behavioral issues such as hyperactivity and aggression.
Certain populations are more vulnerable to the potential health effects of BPA. Pregnant women and developing fetuses are particularly at risk, as BPA can cross the placenta and can potentially affect fetal development.
Infants and young children are another population that is more susceptible due to their smaller body size and developing organs.
Other at-risk groups include individuals with compromised immune systems, those with existing health conditions like diabetes or heart disease, and workers in industries that frequently use BPA-containing materials.
Reducing BPA exposure can be achieved through informed and practical steps:
These tips will help you lower your exposure to BPA. BPA is very widespread and all over the place, so the best way to lower exposure is by making one practical change at a time.
BPA is a common chemical in everyday products, but it could lead to health complications because of the hormonal disruption it can cause. Understanding the adverse health effects of BPA is crucial for making healthier choices about the products we use daily.
While completely avoiding BPA may be challenging, we can take practical steps to minimize our exposure to it. By making consistent changes to limit BPA exposure, we can better protect ourselves and our loved ones from the potential dangers of BPA.
SOURCES:
Saal, F. S. vom, & Hughes, C. (2005, August). An extensive new literature concerning low-dose effects of bisphenol A shows the need for a new risk assessment. Environmental health perspectives. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16079060/
Human exposure to bisphenol A in Europe. European Environment Agency. (2024, June 14). https://www.eea.europa.eu/publications/peoples-exposure-to-bisphenol-a#:~:text=How%20does%20Bisphenol%20A%20harm,functioning%20of%20the%20hormone%20system
Bauer, B. A. (2023, March 24). Tips to reduce BPA exposure. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/bpa/faq-20058331#:~:text=BPA%20stands%20for%20bisphenol%20A,beverages%2C%20such%20as%20water%20bottles
Chemistry Safety Facts. “BPA (Bisphenol A).” Chemical Safety Facts, www.chemicalsafetyfacts.org/chemicals/bpa-bisphenol-a/.
Facts About BPA. “FDA Research about BPA | Facts about BPA.” Facts about BPA, 13 Oct. 2023, www.factsaboutbpa.org/safety-assessments/fda-research-bpa-safety/.
WebMD. (2024, February 17). The facts about bisphenol A, BPA. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/children/bpa
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