From Boston.com
A growing body of evidence suggests that women who have high urine levels of bisphenol-A—a chemical used in some hard plastics and to coat metal cans—are more likely to suffer from infertility, and now researchers have found a possible reason why. BPA may disrupt eggs from maturing properly, according to a study from Brigham and Women’s Hospital researchers.
“As many as 20 percent of infertile couples have unexplained infertility, and this might just shed a glimmer of light on a contributing factor that plays a role,” said study co-author Catherine Racowsky, director of the hospital’s assisted reproductive technologies laboratory.
So, what to do to reduce you BPA levels? The Silent Spring Institute, a Newton research program looking a the links between breast cancer and the environment, did a study looking at just that in 2011. They found that by families that were willing to give up canned food, food packaged in plastic, and restaurant meals for three days. “When study families switched to the fresh food diet, their levels of the hormone disruptors BPA and DEHP dropped by half.”
More here from the FDA.
Tips from SSI on how to limit exposure to BPA
While scientists continue to study the health effects of these chemicals, here
are simple steps to play it safe and reduce your exposure:
Fresh is best
BPA and phthalates can migrate from the linings of cans and plastic
packaging into food and drinks. While it’s not practical to avoid food
packaging altogether, opt for fresh or frozen instead of canned food as
much as possible.
Eat in
Studies have shown that people who eat more meals prepared outside
the home have higher levels of BPA. To reduce your exposure, consider
cooking more meals at home with fresh ingredients. When you do eat
out, choose restaurants that use fresh ingredients.
Store it safe
Food and drinks stored in plastic can collect chemicals from the
containers, especially if the foods are fatty or acidic. Next time, try
storing your leftovers in glass or stainless steel instead of plastic.
While scientists continue to study the health effects of these chemicals, here
Don’t microwave in plastic
Warmer temperatures increase the rate of chemicals leaching into food and drinks. So use heat-resistant glass or ceramic containers when you microwave, or heat your food on the stove. The label “microwave safe” means safety for the container, not your health.
Brew the old-fashioned way
Automatic coffee makers may have BPA and phthalates in their plastic containers and tubing.
When you brew your coffee, consider using a French press to get your buzz without the BPA.
Boston Health News 