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Plastic Containers and Their Health Risks

Writer: JOSEPH LEMUSJOSEPH LEMUS

Revealing plastic containers as health risk factors, learn about the toxins, associated diseases, origin, and preventive measures.



Introduction

Let's start with the health risks from consuming products packaged in plastics, as they cause endocrine disruption, estrogenic effects in men, and reduced sperm count. Synthetic polymers are toxic to humans and have been linked to reproductive problems, cancer, metabolic, and chronic diseases. The health issues related to plastic chemicals amount to approximately 250 billion dollars, yet not a single cent is allocated to stop these manufacturers, warn the public about the risks, or provide ways to avoid them.

In this report, we will provide more information about plastic water bottles and the various materials used in their manufacture, as well as the potential risks associated with certain types of plastic.


Bisphenol A (BPA):

  • BPA is a chemical compound used in the manufacture of plastics like polycarbonate, commonly found in water bottles and other food storage containers.

  • It has been linked to endocrine disruption, meaning it can interfere with the body's hormonal system.

  • Studies have associated BPA exposure with health problems such as an increased risk of cancer, reproductive disorders, developmental issues in fetuses and children, as well as metabolic problems like obesity.

BPA-Free:

  • Many companies have started manufacturing "BPA-Free" products in response to concerns about the health effects of BPA.

  • However, some studies suggest that BPA substitutes, such as Bisphenol S (BPS) and Bisphenol F (BPF), may have similar health effects.

Estrogenic Effects and Reduced Sperm Count:

  • Compounds like BPA, BPF, and BPS have been found to have estrogenic effects, meaning they can mimic the hormonal activity of estrogen in the body.

  • These compounds have also been associated with reduced sperm count in men, which can affect male fertility.

As you can see, these chemicals affect biological hormone receptors, causing metabolic disorders like diabetes, neurodevelopmental and reproductive problems, as well as altering thyroid hormone levels and increasing the risk of leukemia and lymphoma. They also include low birth weight, premature births, fertility alterations, breast cancer, and brain development issues in children.

Leaching:

  • Leaching is a process where a liquid, typically water, extracts solutes from a solid by dissolving it, posing consumption risks with the microplastics and plastic nanoparticles.

  • Microplastics and nanoparticles present health risks or, more precisely, cause diseases.

  • Plastic nanoparticles are up to 100 times more abundant than estimated, according to a recent study by the National Academy of Sciences. Two plastic bottles contain an average of 240,000 particles, composed of 90% nanoparticles and 10% microplastics.

  • It is noteworthy that synthetic polymer nanoparticles are highly toxic, easily penetrating the body and cells. It is undeniable that today there are more sick people than before 1960, and although the cause is unknown, before 1960, there were no plastic containers in water or food. Although the negative health impact from ingesting these compounds has not been definitively proven, tests conducted by the State University of New York at Fredonia on 259 plastic water bottles from 11 brands found that 93% were contaminated with microplastics.



Plastic is Omnipresent and Related Chemicals

Plastic is omnipresent, and these chemicals are associated with reproductive problems, cancer, metabolic diseases, and more.


Consumer Reports tested 100 foods wrapped in plastic and found bisphenols and phthalates, which disrupt the endocrine system.


Exposure to endocrine disruptors can increase the risk of obesity, diabetes, metabolic disorders, neurodevelopmental, and reproductive issues. Pregnant individuals and their children are more vulnerable because even small hormonal changes can affect brain development. Brominated flame retardants found in plastics and electronic products have been linked to brain damage. Vinyl chloride, used in certain plastics, increases the risk of cancer. In areas near plastic factories, there is a higher incidence of diseases.


Although not acutely toxic like lead, daily exposure to these chemicals concerns researchers, as it is linked to a significant number of diseases. The mass production of plastic has increased the incidence of chronic diseases.

Experts like the American Academy of Pediatrics and the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics suggest that this trend is, at least in part, due to exposure to these chemicals.


How to Resolve These Problems?



Alternative Materials:

Tritan:

  • A BPA-free plastic that is free from other related compounds as well. It is promoted as safe and durable for use in food and beverage containers.

Polypropylene:

  • Another plastic considered safe for contact with food and beverages, and it does not contain BPA.

Stainless Steel:

  • A durable and BPA-free alternative to plastic bottles, although it can be heavier and more expensive.

Glass:

  • Considered a safe and non-porous option for containing liquids, although it can break more easily than plastic or stainless steel.

It's important to note that while some materials are promoted as safer than others, the best way to minimize exposure to potentially harmful substances is to opt for alternatives like glass or stainless steel whenever possible and to avoid using plastics as much as possible.



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Dr. Lemus is a critical reviewer of the food industry, he focuses on toxic additives, environmental pollution, clean water, and the unnecessary use of medical drugs, in favor of natural therapeutic methods.

He has extensive experience and training in various disciplines and modalities of natural medicine, including food science, nutritional biochemistry, homeopathy, Chinese medicine, herbalism, bioenergetics, acupuncture, iridology, colon health, and individual biochemistry with more than 45 years in clinical experience. He is the founder and creator of Lemus Natural Medicine, a unique individualized natural medicine modality that utilizes scientific and laboratory data.

 

If you want to learn more about healthy living and disease prevention, contact me at Lemus Natural Medicine where natural medicine is the official medicine!


Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only. Some statements may not have been evaluated by the FDA. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult your qualified healthcare provider before adding supplements or making any changes to your dietary program.

Before taking vitamins, consult your healthcare provider, as pre-existing medical conditions, or medications you are taking can affect how your body responds to multivitamins.


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