ARTICLE - "14 UNEXPECTED ITEMS THAT CONTAIN TOXINS LIKE BPA"

14 Hidden Sources of Toxins in Plastics That You’re Exposing Yourself to Every Day

Article from the TIP HERO website

http://tiphero.com/hidden-sources-of-toxins/

 Whether you choose to jump on the plastic-free-lifestyle bandwagon or not, you’re probably coming into contact with BPA and other toxic chemicals on a daily basis in places that might surprise you.

Wondering just what BPA is exactly? It stands for “bisphenol A” which is a chemical commonly used in plastic and other products. It has been reported to be an endocrine disruptor and possibly also raise blood pressure. It can cause such problems as infertility, low sperm count, early puberty, asthma and even breast cancer.

BPA has been shown to transfer to food and drinks that are stored in products that contain this chemical. While you may already be avoiding plastic food containers and plastic water bottles, there are many more products that contain BPA.

1.    Canned Goods

BPA is often used in the lining of canned food. It may be present in very high amounts due to the high heat involved in the sterilization process. The best idea is to skip canned food altogether and choose fresh or frozen food instead.

2.    Receipts

Any receipt printed on thermal paper may be lined with BPA. If a receipt contains BPA and it’s recycled with other paper products, it can contaminate those paper products as well. The safest choice is to skip the receipt.

3.    Coffee Pots

BPA can be found in many coffee pots, and this is of particular concern because of the high heat involved since heat can make the problem of BPA leaching into food and drinks even worse.

4.    Soda Cans

Many soda cans have BPA in the lining. This is just one more reason to stop drinking soda.

5.    Paper Cups

We don’t often think of paper as a source of BPA. Many plastic cups are lined with BPA, but many paper cups are too. It’s always a better option to drink out of a reusable mug.

6.    CDs and DVDs

Although a small source of BPA, this is a good reason to ditch the CD or DVD library for digital versions.

7.    Dental Sealants

 If your dentist recommends sealants, be sure to ask for BPA-free ones.  

8.    Toothbrushes

Many toothbrushes are plastic. Be sure to choose one that’s BPA-free.

9.    Toothpaste Tubes

Toothpaste often comes in a plastic tube, and these tubes may contain BPA as well which can leach into the toothpaste inside.

10. Baby Formula

Powdered baby formula often comes in cans that may contain BPA in the lining. If breastfeeding isn’t an option, look for baby formula that’s not packaged in a can.

11. Plastic wrap

It’s always a better idea to use parchment paper or a reusable container with a lid that doesn’t contain BPA, like a glass or metal container. We love mason jars.

12. Egg Cartons

Skip eggs packaged in polystyrene containers and buy the ones in cardboard cartons instead.

13. Carryout Containers at Restaurants

The plastic or polystyrene containers many restaurants use for you to bring home your leftovers may contain BPA. It’s a good idea to bring your own reusable glass or metal container if you think you’re going to want to bring home leftovers.

14. Plastic Toys

We know babies and young children put everything in their mouths including their toys. The plastic used to make many kids’ toys may contain BPA, so it’s better to buy toys made out of wood, cloth and other non-plastic materials.

While this is not an exhaustive list, we hope it helps you see the variety of products that have hidden toxins inside. Which item on this list did you find the most surprising?

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