How to Limit Your Exposure to BPA

18 Aug

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BPA, bisphenol A, has been in the news lately. A recent study showed that 91% of Canadians have detectable concentrations of this chemical in their system. Sources of BPA include canned foods, plastic containers and toys, computers, CDs, cell phones, video game consoles and sales receipts. Perhaps what is most concerning is that teenagers, aged 12 to 19, were found to have about 30% greater levels compared to the rest of the population.

Why is BPA a Concern?

Bisphenol A is a hormone disruptor, which means that it can interfere with the normal functioning of our hormonal system. Studies have linked it to declines in testosterone and sexual performance difficulties, increased prostate weight, changes to the genital tract, predisposition of breast cells to cancer and increased risk ofcardiovascular disease anddiabetes.

What Can We Do To Reduce Our Risk?

Limit canned food and liquid consumption. BPA can leach from the lining of the cans into food and liquids.
Choose powdered infant formulas. They tend to contain less BPA than liquid formulas and can be diluted in water. Or choose liquid formulas founds in glass containers.
Avoid #7 plastics (typically you’ll see the label on the bottom of the container). Choose glass, stainless steel containers or #1, #2 or #4 recycled plastic containers.
Avoid microwaving food in plastic containers.
Wash your hands after handling sales receipts, CDs, video consoles, or other items that are likely to contain BPA.

It is impossible to completely eliminate our exposure to BPA, but there is lots we can do to support our body in detoxifying these compounds. Be kind to your liver, kidneys and colon – the organs that work hard to eliminate compounds like BPA from your body. A healthy whole foods diet, high in vegetables, with plenty of water and that is low in processed foods goes a long way.

Natural therapies like rye (Secale sereale) and poplar (Populus nigra) support the liver and help chelate polycarbons like BPA from the body. Speak to your naturopathic doctor for more information about other natural means of detoxification.