Plastic is a daily part of life. In fact, it is so embedded in our lives that we rarely question where they come from. We just accept that they are here for our use and disposal. After all, plastic has been making our lives easier for decades now. We use plastic food containers, our babies feed from baby bottles, and we eat with plastic spoons and forks all the time
With the convenience plastic gives, most people just choose to ignore the high price we have to pay for it. But the amount of data that come from decades of using plastic tell us that we cannot afford to stay ignorant about the harm of plastic not only to our own health but to the health of our planet, too.
Most of the plastic containers that we use today, including baby bottles, cups, and storages contaminate our food and drinks with certain chemicals. This means that all your effort in purchasing organic food is put to waste when you decide to store them in your colourful plastic containers or cover them with a plastic wrap.
Perhaps among the most reviewed and known chemicals that prove to be damaging are BPA or Bisphenol-A, styrene, and phthalates. Let’s talk about them briefly.
BPA is used to manufacture polycarbonate for water bottles, cups, and even baby bottles. What most people don’t know, however, is that BPA has also been associated with birth defects, developmental issues, miscarriages, early puberty, hyperactivity, and breast cancer, among many others.
Styrene can usually be found in Styrofoam containers, non-transparent plastic cutlery, and egg cartons. Studies show that it is harmful for your kidney, stomach, liver, and red blood cells. What is more alarming is that long-term exposure to Styrene puts your brain and nervous system at risk too.
Phthalates are compounds that help make plastics flexible. However, exposure to phthalates through the use of plastic containers has been associated with birth defects, hormonal disruptions, asthma, some cancers, and more.
It is therefore wise to replace all your plastic containers with something safer like glass. Aside from being free from harmful chemicals found in plastic, they are also reusable. Plus, you will notice food in glass containers taste better than those stored in plastic!
If you fear that your health has been compromised by using plastic, you should know that there are ways to reverse and combat this material’s harm on your body. Dr. Sloan at Sloan Natural Health Center deals with these health conditions that are often linked to your usage of plastic containers. With his helpful guidance, and of course, your smart decision to ditch plastic and opt for safer containers, you can ensure your family’s health and safety in no time.
