More Info on BPAs

Since my last post, many of you have e-mailed me looking for more information on Bisphenol A. So I thought I would add these facts which I think summarize the issue perfectly. They're quoted from from the Toxic Nation web site (http://www.toxicnation.ca/toxics-in-your-body/bisphenola):

What is Bisphenol A?
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic chemical compound used in a wide range of consumer products and is classed by the Government of Canada as a hormone disruptor.

Who is exposed to Bisphenol A?
Everyone. Bisphenol A is found in many everyday products including food cans, plastic water containers and baby bottles. A study in the US found that 95% of people tested had been exposed to BPA.

Why is it a concern?
Bisphenol A is a hormone disruptor. Studies have linked low-dose BPA exposure with such effects as: permanent changes to genital tract; increase prostate weight; decline in testosterone; breast cells predisposed to cancer; prostate cells more sensitive to hormones and cancer; and hyperactivity.

Where is it used?
BPA is primarily used to make polycarbonate plastic food and beverage containers, plastic food wrap, and epoxy resins that are used to line metal cans for food, such as cans of soup. Polycarbonate plastic food and beverage containers that contain BPA will be labeled recycling symbol #7. However, not all recycling symbol #7 containers will be made with BPA.

How can I be exposed?
The BPA in products can leach out and be subsequently ingested by people.

What are alternatives to Bisphenol A?
Until there is a ban on Bisphenol A, the best alternative is to avoid food and beverage containers that contain the chemical. Use glass or stainless steel refillable drinking bottles, instead of hard plastic ones. For juice or other drinks, it's best to use lined aluminum bottles. Stainless steel bottles are great for water.
For baby bottles, choose glass or look for companies that make hard plastic bottles without Bisphenol A. They are often available at health food stores, organic markets and grocery stores and some baby stores.
Avoid eating canned food when you can. Instead of canned vegetables or fruits, choose fresh or frozen ones (they're healthier for you that way, too!). You can also buy many different kinds of soups and beans in reusable glass jars. And, instead of buying soft drinks in cans, choose glass bottles.

What are hormone disruptors?
Hormone or endocrine disruptors are substances that can interfere with the normal functioning of the hormone system of both people and wildlife in a number of ways to produce a wide range of adverse effects including reproductive, developmental and behavioural problems.