BPA studies show cause for concern
DEAR DOCTOR K: Is the chemical BPA just another health scare? Or is it really something I should be worried about?
DEAR READER: BPA stands for bisphenol A. It is used to make a plastic known as polycarbonate.
Polycarbonate is sturdy and resists shattering, so it’s a great material for water and baby bottles. BPA is also used to line the inside of cans so the metal of the can doesn’t directly touch the food or beverage. It’s used in some dental sealants and as an ingredient in the paper on which many receipts are printed. So there’s no question that we’re exposed to BPA.
There’s also no question that the majority of Americans have measurable amounts of it in their bodies.
BPA has effects similar to certain hormones in animals. The hard, and controversial, question is whether any of this exposure to BPA causes harm. Expert panels organized by the National Institutes of Health have concluded that there is reason to be concerned, although there is no proof of harm. The U.S. National Toxicology Program expressed concern about the possibility of brain and behavioral effects on fetuses and young children, at levels of exposure in the U.S. population.
Most of the concerns involve possible adverse effects on fertility, obesity and behavioral problems in young children. Some studies in animals raise questions about whether BPA can damage the breasts, thyroid and prostate glands.
I have mixed feelings about all the focus on BPA. On one hand, no adverse effects in humans have been proven. On the other hand, it probably wouldn’t hurt to be cautious and limit BPA exposure where we can.
The first thing I would suggest is to eat less canned food. Replace it with more fresh fruits and vegetables – and that’s always a good idea.
If you continue to use containers that are made of BPA, don’t put them in the microwave. Also, don’t put hot foods or liquids in them: The heat can leach BPA from the wall of the container. Products that contain BPA have the number 7 on the bottom or recycling label.