Protecting Yourself From BPA

By Jane Farrell

Editor’s Note: Over the last few years, there have been frightening headlines about the dangers of the chemical BPA, many of them focusing on health risks, including possible liver damage. Water bottles and other containers bearing the label “BPA-free” are common in stores and supermarkets– an indication of how widely known the issue is. Research into the effects of BPA are ongoing, and there are conflicting studies.  One by the FDA concluded there appeared to be no harm from low levels of BPA, while another, from the University of Michigan and Penn State, said that the chemical appears to cause liver damage in mice. It’s no surprise that consumers are concerned about the risks. Here, from experts at the Mayo Clinic, is an outline of what you should know about BPA, and how you can protect yourself from any possible risks:

BPA stands for bisphenol A. BPA is an industrial chemical that has been used to make certain plastics and resins since the 1960s.is found in polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. Polycarbonate plastics are often used in containers that store food and beverages, such as water bottles. They may also be used in other consumer goods.

Epoxy resins are used to coat the inside of metal products, such as food cans, bottle tops and water supply lines. Some dental sealants and composites also may contain BPA.

Some research has shown that BPA can seep into food or beverages from containers that are made with BPA. Exposure to BPA is a concern because of possible health effects of BPA on the brain, behavior and prostate gland of fetuses, infants and children.

However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has said that BPA is safe at the very low levels that occur in some foods. This assessment is based on review of hundreds of studies.

The FDA is continuing its review of BPA, including supporting ongoing research. In the meantime, if you're concerned about BPA, you can take these steps to reduce your exposure:

Seek out BPA-free products. More and more BPA-free products have come to market. Look for products labeled as BPA-free. If a product isn't labeled, keep in mind that some, but not all, plastics marked with recycle codes 3 or 7 may be made with BPA.

Cut back on cans. Reduce your use of canned foods since most cans are lined with BPA-containing resin.

Avoid heat. The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, part of the National Institutes of Health, advises against microwaving polycarbonate plastics or putting them in the dishwasher, because the plastic may break down over time and allow BPA to leach into foods.

Use alternatives. Use glass, porcelain or stainless steel containers for hot foods and liquids instead of plastic containers.

With Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D.

Reprinted with permission from mayoclinic.org. For more health information, visit mayoclinic.org.