BPA-free tips

The additive ubiquitous in hard plastics has been catching a lot of flack lately. And rightfully so. Bisphenol A (BPA) — a known endocrine disruptor — has been linked to reproductive disorders, behavioral problems in animals, and liver damage. In light of this, the Canadian government outlawed its use in baby bottles last April. Now there’s more news for the chemical: Research published in September by a team from the University of Cincinnati in Ohio suggested that BPA is a risk factor for human metabolic syndrome — a disorder that afflicts millions of Americans with symptoms such as obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.

When researchers exposed three types of human fat tissues to BPA levels that replicated environmental exposure, they found that the chemical suppressed the hormone adiponectin, which regulates insulin sensitivity, upping obesity risk and other health issues. In the same month, similar research that studied urinary concentrations of BPA in 1,455 adults was published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Although approximately 90 percent of the U.S. population has detectable blood levels of BPA, the FDA continues to support its use in consumer plastic products.

Follow these BPA tips to reduce your exposure.

Read plastic labels. Polycarbonate plastics that contain BPA will have the letters PC or the recycling codes 3 and 7. And remember: Even a plastic container labeled “microwave-safe” may leach chemicals when heated. Always use ceramic, porcelain, or glass containers for storing and reheating leftovers.

Replace cans with cartons. Cartons are a good alternative to canned soups, many of which have tested positive for BPA. For example, Dr. McDougall’s Ready to Serve soup comes in BPA-free packaging made with paper from sustainably managed forests. Use powdered infant formula instead of canned liquid formula. Try Nature’s One Baby’s Only Organic Dairy Formula.

Choose fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables. In addition to avoiding BPA, you’ll also sidestep extra sodium, sugar, and potential calories from the liquids used for canning.

Pick water bottles wisely. Opt for linerless stainless steel or plastic labeled BPA-free instead of aluminum bottles, which often contain liners made with epoxy resins. Glass water bottles, such as Lifefactory Beverage Bottles, also can be a safe and durable option.. Also purchase nonpolycarbonate baby bottles, such as those from Born Free.

Beware of plastic dishes. Avoid washing plastic dishes with hot water or harsh dishwashing soaps and discard any scratched or worn plastic containers. Not only can scratches harbor germs, but they also can lead to greater release of BPA.