BPA-Free Does NOT Mean Safe
If you’ve been practicing a healthy lifestyle, you’re probably familiar with the health dangers of BPA. Many plastic product manufacturers are now coming out with BPA-free alternatives to appease health-conscious consumers, but this may not be enough as the chemicals used to replace BPA, namely BPS and BPF, may be just as bad. Fortunately, safer alternatives exist.
The Dangers of the BPA Substitutes BPS and BPF
Compounds in common plastic products have been linked to disruption in hormone levels which can lead to weight gain, fertility issues, and even cancer. These dangers have prompted many companies switched to BPA substitutes in effort to provide safer products for the public. The thing is, Bisphenol S and Bisphenol F (the main replacements for BPA) are no better and linked to obesity, cancer, and hyperactivity. [1]
BPA Substitute Dangers
You may think that choosing products with a BPA-free label is doing your body good, but think again. This over zealous yet misguided marketing term is doing more harm than good, and the science is showing it. Recent evidence suggests that BPA substitutes, like BPS and BPF, also interfere with the endocrine system, potentially reducing serum testosterone concentration in males. [2] [3] Others have suggested that the BPA substitutes are linked with irregular heartbeats, too. [4]
How Can I Avoid BPA, BPS, and BPF?
Fortunately, by avoiding BPA or any of its many alternative, you can limit your exposure to this harmful ingredient. By avoiding things like food wrap, plastic containers, plastic bags, hard plastic water bottles, and cleaning products that contain plastic you will certainly limit your exposure. You can instead use stainless steel water bottles, plastic-free cleaning supplies, glass containers, and ceramic cookware.
References (4)
- Reuters. Replacement for BPA in plastics also suspect: study. Reuters.
- Eladak S, Grisin T, Moison D, et al. A new chapter in the bisphenol A story: bisphenol S and bisphenol F are not safe alternatives to this compound. Fertil Steril. 2015 Jan;103(1):11-21. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.11.005.
- Rochester JR, Bolden AL. Bisphenol S and F: A Systematic Review and Comparison of the Hormonal Activity of Bisphenol A Substitutes. Environ Health Perspect. 2015 Jul;123(7):643-50. doi: 10.1289/ehp.1408989.
- Thaddeus Schug. BPA exposure traced to abnormal heart rhythms. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. Environmental Factor. May 2012.
†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
Dr. Edward Group, DC
FOUNDER | HEALER | ADVOCATEDr. Group, DC is a healer and alternative health advocate, and an industry leader and innovator in the field of natural health who is dedicated to helping others. He is a registered doctor of chiropractic (DC), a naturopathic practitioner (NP), and proud alum of Harvard Business School and MIT Sloan School of Management. Dr. Group, DC is the founder of Global Healing – a mission and vision he has shared through best-selling books and frequent media appearances. He aims to spread his message of positivity, hope, and wellness throughout the world.
