BPA Linked to Child Obesity and Diabetes

Obesity rates in children have gone through the roof in recent years. There are many factors causing this trend, but there is one specifically that is making its way into the spotlight. Bisphenol A (BPA) is a man-made carbon-based synthetic compound used commonly in plastics such as bottles, food and beverage cans, even sports equipment. It is linked to hormone issues as it can mimic estrogen which causes negative health effects in humans. Studies are widespread, some showing greater risk of health concerns, while others show that the levels of BPA in these consumer materials are not substantial enough to pose a risk. New research has emerged that leans towards avoiding such chemicals in your products all together.

Researchers found that byproducts of some of these chemicals are linked to an increased risk of insulin resistance among teens. BPA specificaly was linked to obesity in teenagers and young adults. With one in six children and teenagers obese in the United States, this raises great concern over the safety of these products. 

Certain precautions can be taken, for example, not washing plastic containers in the dishwasher, and throwing away containers that are scratched and/or damaged. These are signs that the material may be leeching into the food when stored inside the container. Studies are not definitive, likely because massive conglomerates that benefit from using such chemicals have such great stake in the market. Research is ongoing, and has led to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banning BPA from baby bottles, although there is currently no motion to increase the spread of the ban. There are no other regulations at this time for such chemicals in food products. Are you aware what your children are eating?