If you didn’t get to read my post on plastic and cancer, click here for some background on plastic and cancer. After getting informed on plastics, you might be left wondering what you should do.
Who do you believe? How cautious should you be?
Keep in mind that there are many things that scientists don’t know yet. You will always have to balance known with unknown, and make decisions based on how much risk you are comfortable with.
Of course, you can always change your decision with time and more evidence!
What Should You Do?
Typically when it comes to recommendations, the US government is careful to wait for the body of evidence. Environmental groups are often highly cautious. Most of the time, I like to get informed on as many studies as possible, and I find myself somewhere in the middle!
BPA is the chemical in question when it comes to questions about the safety of plastic. Many people would like to limit their consumption of BPA as a precaution for safety reasons.
Simple Tips to Keep Your Consumption of BPA Low
- Don’t microwave polycarbonate plastic food containers. Polycarbonate is strong and durable, but over time it may break down from over use at high temperatures.
- Polycarbonate containers that contain BPA usually have a #7 (sometimes #3) on the bottom
- Reduce your use of canned foods.
- When possible, opt for glass, porcelain or stainless steel containers, particularly for hot food or liquids.
- Use baby bottles that are BPA free.
Julie’s Choice Regarding Plastic Containers
For me, I continue to use my existing polycarbonate water bottles, although I do not wash them in the dishwasher. When I go to buy a new one, I’m probably going to buy one that contains the fewest potentially toxic chemicals that I can.
When it comes to containers, we are phasing out the plastic Tupperware (#5) containers in favor of glass. We do eat canned foods occasionally, mostly for canned beans or tomato products.
Others may throw all their bottles away and replace them with new, chemical free bottles. Still others might not worry about what types of water bottle they use until the government makes recommendations. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable with your choice.
You know what I say?
Drink your water. From the tap. In a glass!
– Julie
