Before plastic enters the natural ecosystem, the chemicals it contains can leach into the body from water bottles and other food containers, potentially endangering human health, according to a growing body of research. For example, plastic is already known to contain endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). They can harm the human body as a whole.
These chemicals affect the endocrine (hormonal) system. And maybe they are actually dangerous. Most research on health effects is done on animals and laboratory-grown cells. It is also difficult for science to keep up with the rapid and constant creation of new chemicals. More than 16 thousand chemicals are used in plastic production. More than a thousand industrial chemicals used today are suspected of being endocrine disruptors. Additionally, plastic manufacturers are not required to disclose the chemical ingredients they use, except for a small percentage of regulated substances.
What we now know is that EDCs are contained within plastic and can leach out. EDCs encompass a broad family of substances that include many synthetic industrial chemicals such as bisphenols, flame retardants, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), phthalates, and others.
Some recycled plastics contain concentrated levels of these chemicals, which can worsen their effects on the body. Research also shows that this effect is direct. Most EDCs are lipophilic, meaning they can combine with dissolved fats. Therefore, people can be exposed to them through oils absorbed through sweat, skin, and oils in food.
Synthetic EDCs have a structure and size similar to dozens of hormones, including estrogen, testosterone, and thyroid hormones. Once in the body, they can disrupt the endocrine system.
Synthetic EDCs mimic hormones, blocking them and disrupting their normal functioning. The impact of this can be widespread, as the endocrine system helps control everything from fertility and reproduction to growth, metabolism, immunity and brain development. Exactly when you were exposed to EDCs is also important. Pregnancy, fetal and child development are considered periods of increased sensitivity to these substances. This leads to fertility problems.
A study on newborn rats found that when they were given bisphenol A, their fertility decreased and they developed ovarian cysts as adults.
Large observational studies have linked phthalate exposure to a higher likelihood of preterm birth, i.e. insulin dysfunction leading to diabetes. A review study also showed a link between the developmental effects of flame retardants (containing phthalates) and decreased IQ in children.
Another study revealed that women working in the plastic industry have an increased risk of fertility problems.
News materials cannot be equated with a doctor’s prescription. Consult an expert before making a decision.
Source: Ferra
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