As obesity rates continue to rise across the world, an overlooked chemical cocktail has researchers doing a double-take. Oftentimes referred to as a lifestyle and diet issue, obesity is now being linked to environmental pollutants, defined as obesogens, but particularly BPA, a chemical found in most popular plastics, bottles, and containers. Common by-products of many industrialized nations, these man-made, synthetic endocrine-disrupting chemicals leech into water, food, and air are quickly becoming a major health concern. In fact, a new study released in China shows a direct correlation between obesity levels and chemical BPA found in the urine of young female test subjects.
Since BPA mimics estrogen, human hormone levels are at risk. Whenever hormones become imbalanced, the body releases inflammation. Hormones, which control weight, metabolism, and digestive function are bombarded with toxins. Over time, these known toxins can accelerate cell differentiation, cause insulin resistance, and influence lipid and carbohydrate absorption. Obesogens and BPA have the ability to increase the number of fat cells, negatively impact metabolic rate, and affect systems of appetite and satiety. Besides being just plain bad for your waistline, BPA and other related obesogens have been linked more serious health complications, including breast cancer, early puberty, and cases of infertility.
So, what can you do to slow the damage? For starters, focus on avoiding popular PVC products, plastic containers unless they’re listed as BPA-free, and eliminate canned foods created from metal. When eating foods, avoid using the microwave, plus eat only organic, grass-fed meat and pesticide-free produce. If you are an avid coffee drinker, ditch the plastic and try using a French press or a ceramic drip. And lastly, when in doubt – use glass. With the right containers, food choices, and healthy guidelines, you can lose the weight, keep it off, and, most importantly, stay BPA-free.
