Kids' Obesity May Be Linked to Plastic Chemicals

Most health-conscious consumers are wary of excessive chemicals in our food supply and in the products that we use.  There are many harmful toxins in our everyday products.  In recent years, there has been a public outcry relating to the use of BPH (Bisphenol A) in plastic bottles.  Previously, BPH was shown to be an endocrine disruptor, which alters the endocrine system, potentially affecting reproduction and brain developement.Two recent studies printed in the journal, Pediatrics, linked chemicals with the obesity epidemic. One study shows that BPA is associated with higher BMIs in children, while the other study shows that phtalates are related to increased insulin resistance in children. Our children are very vulnerable as they are growing, and it possible that they are more affected by these chemicals as they are developing.If you must purchase plastic with BPA, choose plastic with the recycling numbers 3, 6 or 7.  Also, do not microwave plastic, do not put them in the dishwasher, and throw them away when they appear scratched or damaged.  To learn more about harmful products and our children, check out the Mt. Sinai Children's Environmental Health Center website.