14 hours Ago By Zena le Roux
You started your day with a to-go coffee, heated up leftovers in a plastic container, and grabbed a receipt at the store. Without realizing it, you’ve been exposed to BPA (bisphenol-A) at least three times before noon. Disrupting these hormones could have wide-ranging effects.
BPA’s interference with reproductive hormones may contribute to infertility, menstrual irregularities, and lower sperm quality. Meanwhile, its impact on leptin could lead to increased appetite and a higher risk of obesity. Frederick vom Saal, a professor of biological sciences at the University of Missouri-Columbia, said that BPA also alters enzymes responsible for the production of reproductive hormones, leading to increased estradiol (a form of estrogen) and decreased testosterone production in animal studies, disrupting the natural balance of hormones.
On a more fundamental level, BPA can further change how genes work by turning certain genes on or off. This may increase the risk of obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and some cancers by interfering with fat storage, insulin regulation, and cell growth. These changes could also make cancer-related genes more active or suppress protective ones, potentially raising the risk of breast and prostate cancer.
Some people may be more sensitive to BPA due to factors like genetics, age, or existing health conditions. BPA is used to produce polycarbonate plastics in hard plastic bottles and food storage containers—as well as the resins that line most metal food cans. It’s also in water pipes, electronics, and various consumer plastics, including children’s toys.
It is more likely to leach into food and beverages when containers or cans are heated, such as microwaving food in plastic or leaving a plastic water bottle in a hot car. Choose fresh, whole foods: Packaged and processed foods can contain BPA. Opting for fresh or minimally processed foods can help reduce exposure.
Use BPA-free containers: Glass, stainless steel, or BPA-free plastic containers are great alternatives for storing food and beverages. Avoid heating food in plastic: Heat can cause BPA to leach into food. Using microwave-safe glass or ceramic containers is a better choice.
Check canned food labels: Many cans are lined with BPA, but some brands offer BPA-free options. Checking labels can help you make informed decisions. Check recycling codes: Plastics labeled with recycling codes three or seven may contain BPA.
When possible, choose alternatives to reduce exposure. Government actions play a crucial role in reducing BPA exposure, complementing individual efforts. In December 2024, the European Commission adopted a ban on the use of BPA in food-contact materials, including coatings on metal cans and reusable plastic drink bottles.
Similarly, in January 2020, the EU prohibited BPA in thermal paper receipts, addressing another common source of exposure. Imagine a morning without BPA. You wake up, sip your coffee from a glass or stainless-steel cup, heat your leftovers in a ceramic container, and opt for paperless receipts.
Taking such small steps has the potential for huge benefits..
