Why is bpa bad

Babies fed formula from BPA-containing bottles also have high levels in their bodies. BPA is said to mimic the structure and function of the hormone estrogen 2. Due to its estrogen-like shape, BPA can bind to estrogen receptors and influence bodily processes, such as growth, cell repair, fetal development, energy levels , and reproduction. In addition, BPA may also interact with other hormone receptors, such as those for your thyroid, thus altering their function 8.

Its use has already been restricted in the EU, Canada, China, and Malaysia — particularly in products for babies and young children. In , the FDA released its latest report, which confirmed the original s daily exposure limit of 23 mcg per pound of body weight 50 mcg per kg and concluded that BPA is probably safe at the levels currently allowed 9. However, research in rodents shows negative effects of BPA at much lower levels — as little as 4. BPA has a similar structure as the hormone estrogen.

It may bind to estrogen receptors, affecting many bodily functions. One study observed that women with frequent miscarriages had about three times as much BPA in their blood as women with successful pregnancies A separate study found that men with higher BPA levels were 3—4 times more likely to have a low sperm concentration and low sperm count Additionally, men working in BPA manufacturing companies in China reported 4.

Although such effects are notable, several recent reviews agree that more studies are needed to strengthen the body of evidence 8 , 19 , 20 , Several studies show that BPA can negatively affect many aspects of both male and female fertility.

Most studies — but not all — have observed that children born to mothers exposed to BPA at work weigh up to 0. In addition, children born to mothers with higher BPA levels were more hyperactive , anxious, and depressed. They also showed 1.

Finally, BPA exposure during early life is also thought to influence prostate and breast tissue development in ways that increase cancer risk. However, while there are ample animal studies to support this, human studies are less conclusive 29 , 30 , 31 , 32 , 33 , BPA exposure during early life may influence birth weight, hormonal development, behavior, and cancer risk in later life. However, some studies found no links between BPA and these diseases 40 , 41 , Higher BPA levels are associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

Interestingly, similar patterns have been observed in children and adolescents 48 , Another study indicated that BPA could mitigate the effectiveness of chemotherapy in breast cancer patients — a cause for concern for anyone undergoing radiation therapy.

The conditions required for a healthy fetus to develop are fragile. We already know that during pregnancy women should not drink alcohol or smoke and that they need to be very careful about dietary choices.

It turns out they should also be careful of the plastics with which they come into contact, according to a study which found BPA to have a negative effect on some fetal development processes.

The way this happens is troubling. Studies have also shown that BPA poses serious health risks to men , adversely affecting male reproductive function. While BPA is a major concern for us today, its effect on fertility and child development will affect future generations. For example, a study by the Duke University Medical Center found the presence of BPA prevents the removal of chloride from the central nervous system and also disrupts the way the brain regulates genes.

This is not to say BPA is the leading cause of these conditions, but that it creates an environment where they are more likely to develop, suggesting a BPA-free approach to your day-to-day life might be necessary.

Heart disease and diabetes brought on by obesity have reached near epidemic levels in the United States. Though it is primarily because of high-fat diets and processed foods, the BPA used in product packaging may also be a contributing factor. Some studies have found that BPA exposure can increase the risk of high blood pressure , diabetes and heart disease.

Researchers have confirmed that there is a link between these diseases and BPA, but they are not sure how they interact. With this confirmation, it is simply best to avoid BPA at all costs.

Bisphenol A can also contribute to weight gain. It does this partially because of what we mentioned earlier about its ability to act as a hormone inside the body. So while you're running on that treadmill, it might be wise to leave your plastic water bottle at home. At Kablo, we've worked very hard to develop the absolute highest-quality, non-toxic, contaminant-free borosilicate glass water bottles.

We encourage everyone to educate themselves and only use containers that are inert and sanitary for their daily drinkware — many plastic and metal alternatives can leach into your beverage and it is wise to steer clear of soluble materials.

Hundreds of scientific studies in the last 10 years have confirmed a link between BPA and its adverse health effects many of which we've linked. While the FDA suggests that the results are inconclusive, we have reason to be wary of these claims.

The FDA is infamous for fabricating research that is funded by industry. Remember how 50 years ago the sugar industry paid FDA scientists to downplay the risks of sugar? We now know that in fact, sugar increases the likelihood of triglycerides, diabetes and even cancer.

Anyone familiar with the inner workings of the FDA should know to take results from their studies with a grain of salt. Healthy Lifestyle Nutrition and healthy eating. Products and services. Answer From Brent A. With Brent A.

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Something went wrong on our side, please try again. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. Accessed Jan. Questions and answers on bisphenol A BPA use in food contact applications. Food and Drug Administration.

Hall JM, et al. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Goldman RH, et al. Occupational and environmental risks to reproduction in females: Specific exposures and impact. Accessed March 3, Trasande L, et al. Food additives and child health. Patisaul HB. Journal of Neuroendocrinology. Bao W, et al. Association between bisphenol A exposure and risk of all-cause and cause-specific mortality in US adults.