Chemicals in our plastic packaging and plastic bottles.
We wanted to share some important information regarding the potential health impacts of plastics, particularly concerning fertility.
Dr. Shanna Swan, a leading fertility scientist and epidemiologist at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York, recently discussed the risks of endocrine disruptors on the Huberman Lab podcast. These substances, such as BPA (bisphenol A) and phthalates, are often added to plastics but are not chemically bound to them. Dr. Swan strongly advises against microwaving food in plastic containers because heat causes these chemicals to leach into food.
She also cautioned against leaving plastic water bottles in a car on a sunny day for the same reason.
BPA and phthalates have been linked to fertility issues, including lower sperm counts and quality in men, and adverse effects on women's ovaries. BPA can mimic estrogen, potentially disrupting hormone balance and fueling tumors, while phthalates are believed to disrupt testosterone.
Although some regulators state current exposure levels are safe, concern among experts is growing. The Food Standards Agency in the UK is reviewing new data on BPA, and some restrictions on BPA and phthalates are already in place for infant products and certain food packaging.
Given this information, and as water treatment experts, we recommend minimizing exposure to these chemicals. Switching to filtered tap water is a great step. Installing a reverse osmosis (RO) water filter in your home or business can effectively remove contaminants, microplastics, chlorine, lead, and improve water taste and odor, providing safe, clean, and fresh-tasting water.
Contact our independent water filtration experts for advice on the best water filter for your home or business.