A new study is showing that the much maligned chemical bisphenol-A (BPA) is a cause of obesity in children.
Or is it the other way around?
Quite truthfully, scientists aren't sure whether high levels of the chemical are causing kids to be obese or whether the bodies of obese kids tend to store and release more BPA.
Either way, it's not good.
BPA is an endocrine disruptor, which can mimic estrogen. It also binds to thyroid hormone receptor, can interfere with the reproductive system, and is linked to several types of cancer.
Opinions and study findings vary widely as to how dangerous it is, but anything that mimics a hormone is not something you want to mess with — especially when it comes to your kids' health.
Since re-usable plastic containers were the first target of BPA bans, it's less likely that any water bottles, baby bottles, or plastic food storage containers contain BPA (unless they are several years old). Some plastics with recycling numbers 3 or 7 stamped on the bottom can have BPA as well, but those are getting fewer and farther between as well.
The real culprit is plastic-lined food cans.
Stating what should be obvious, the researchers of this new study say that if a parent were to “reduce a child’s food consumption from canned sources you would reduce a child’s BPA levels.”
Better yet, replace canned foods with whole, plant-based foods on The Hallelujah Diet whenever possible and avoid both the BPA and obesity issues altogether!
Homework: Check your pantry for BPA!
