How Bad Is BPA?

Bisphenol A (BPA) is found in hardened plastics in a wide variety of products, including some food and beverage containers. Some experts have been concerned about the potential danger of this chemical because lab animals exposed to BPA develop health problems.

A recent study found a correlation between the amount of BPA found in the urine and the likelihood of also having heart disease and diabetes.

Does that mean you should stop using plastics? Well, maybe...or maybe not. The problem with a study like this is that it doesn't really prove BPA causes heart disease or diabetes, it just shows that people who have more BPA in their systems also had more chronic disease. Maybe because they ate lots of processed packaged foods that just happen to be packaged in plastic.

The FDA has the authority to regulate the use of plastics containing BPA. As of now, the FDA does not recommend people avoid plastics, but does suggest concerned parents may switch to glass baby bottles.

If you are concerned about exposure to BPA, the NIH has these suggestions:

• Don’t microwave food in plastic polycarbonate food containers. Pyrex is an excellent BPA-free alternative (buy direct).
• Plastic containers that contain BPA usually have a #7 on the bottom.
• Reduce your use of canned foods -- cans may be lined with plastic material.
• Use glass, porcelain or stainless steel containers, particularly for hot food or liquids.
• Use baby bottles that are BPA free (buy direct).

You can replace many of your current plastic items with BPA-free products.

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