Plastic poses a threat to both the environment and our health. Research indicates that small particles and harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates can enter our bodies.
Dr. Jennifer Adibi from the University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health states that these chemicals are not securely contained within products, making them able to move out and into our bodies.
A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine examined plaque extracted from the carotid arteries of 257 individuals. Over half of them had detectable levels of microplastics, and subsequent checkups showed an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and death among this group.
Microplastics have been associated with various health issues. To protect yourself, Dr. Adibi recommends educating yourself on potential sources and seeking out alternatives. Some helpful tips include using glass, ceramics, or paper plates in the microwave instead of plastic containers, buying items labeled “BPA-free,” and avoiding plastics with recycling codes of 3 or 7, as they may contain BPA.
For more information on the effects of BPA, visit the National Institute of Environmental Health Services’ website.