For some time now, naturalists and environmentalists have expressed concern over some of the chemicals used to make plastic items, and a recent study has confirmed that a toxic chemical, Bisphenol-A(BPA), used in the manufacturing of baby bottles is leaching into the liquids contained in bottles.
Bisphenol-A is a chemical that is commonly used in the manufacturing of clear polycarbonate plastic.
As early as 1930s scientists learned that it could mimic estrogen in the body and can alter the expression of genes.
Over 150 studies using laboratory animals have shown the damaging effects of this chemical.
It is a Developmental, Neural and Reproductive Toxicant that is associated with impaired immune function, hormonal problems, obesity, diabetes, lowered sperm count, prostate and breast cancer and hyperactivity.
Children are most at risk from this chemical because they have underdeveloped mechanisms for detoxifying their bodies.
Additionally, evidence now exists that many of the side effects of exposure to Bisphenol-A do not present until years after exposure.
For years toxicology scientists have assumed that the level of risk associated with toxins was correlated with the size of the dose, however, a few studies have now found that lower levels of Bisphenol-A exposure are worse than higher levels.
Studies by the U.
S.
CDC have shown that 95 percent of Americans have levels of Bisphenol-A that are at or above the concentrations that are known to cause adverse effects in studies with laboratory animals.
Take Action: Buy bottles that are free of Bisphenol-A.
Before you buy bottles, take a look at the plastics number on the bottom of the bottle.
Only buy bottles and plastics that are labeled with a #1, #2 or #5.
An alternative option is to buy glass.