Plastics - A problem for more than the environment
Plastics are everywhere in our environment, and it is commonly accepted that minimizing plastics is imperative for the health of the environment.
After all, they take 400 years to degrade. Eek.
That’s reason enough to stop using plastics!
But there are also massive consequences to our personal health as well.
It is very difficult to go entirely plastic-free, but it is worth making an effort to try to do so as intentionally and ruthlessly as possible.
Here’s why.
Plastics are not well regulated in the United States, so unfortunately, they can be easily found in our food, food packaging, and other unexpected places, such as chewing gum.
When plastic is heated, or food or liquid is exposed to it for a period of time, the chemicals leach into our food.
Even water bottles labeled BPA-free contain similar analogues, such as BPS, or BPF, and also have health consequences for our bodies.
The truth is that Microplastics are found in over 90% of water bottles.
So, what exactly is the problem with plastics?
The cumulative effects of these chemicals have yet to be well studied, which is worrisome in itself.
But what we do know is that plastics are carcinogenic. A carcinogen is a substance, organism or agent capable of causing cancer.
As if that were not enough, plastics also can disrupt our hormones.
The consumption of plastics disrupts the hormone signaling within our body, known as “endocrine disruptors.” When these endocrine-disrupting chemicals interfere without the body's hormone signaling, it causes neurological, developmental, immune, and reproductive dysfunction.
These toxic plastics are found everywhere in daily life, in food, toys, cosmetics, flame retardants, the lining of metal food cans, and pesticides.
For example, did you know that paper receipts contain BPA? Especially when hand sanitizer is used in particular, which is deemed critical for health now, the skin absorbs more BPA in handling receipts. It is a good idea to wear gloves if you are a cashier holding receipts all day! If you are exploring the toxicity of plastics, note that the most toxic plastics are numbered #3, #6, and #7.
So, what are some ways to help avoid toxic exposure to plastic in your habits and home?
You can make an effort to go plastic-free in many ways:
Avoid the toxic plastics numbered #3, #6, and #7.
Switch to glass, ceramic or stainless steel containers as much as possible.
If you purchase food that is in plastic, remove it as soon as possible and place it in glass or stainless steel.
Do not use plastic water bottles.
Discard plastic as soon as any wear or degradation is evident, as this is a sign that the chemicals can more easily leach into food.
Do not microwave food in plastic or with plastic wrap.
Use cool water to wash plastics, and do not place them in the dishwasher.
Choose plastics that are PVC-free.
Store food, especially if it’s greasy, in wax paper rather than plastic.
It can be overwhelming to try to implement all of these changes at once, but every little choice contributes to better health for yourself, others and the environment.
Make one choice at a time, and know that every little bit helps!
In health,
Liz