BPA (Bisphenol A)

This is a colorless solid organic compound that is commonly present in a range of everyday household items that we have grown accustomed to and may even rely on. It can be found in a multitude of generic plastic products such as water bottles, food containers, receipt paper, medical devices, baby bottles, and water supply pipes.

When a plastic item that has BPA is heated, the heat can prompt additional BPA to leach out. For instance, foods intended to be microwaved in plastic bowls or beverages microwaved in plastic cups can be sources of exposure.[1]

[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29172986/

BPA exposure is prevalent to such an extent that research indicates most individuals over the age of 6 have detectable amounts of BPA in their urine. A study discovered that approximately 85% of Korean children under 2 years old exhibited detectable levels of BPA in their urine.[2] [3]

[2] https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/sya-bpa

[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32380592/

In adults, BPA is eliminated form the body through a detoxification process in the liver; however, in infants and children, the pathway is not fully developed, which prevents them from clearing BPA from their systems.[4]

[4] Beronius A, Rudén C, Håkansson H, Hanberg A. Risk to all or none? A comparative analysis of controversies in the health risk assessment of Bisphenol A. Reprod Toxicol, 2010; 29(2):132-146.

 Studies have established a connection between BPA exposure and various health concerns, partly due to BPA mimicking the structure and function of the hormone estrogen. [5]

[5] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27717745/

Consequently, BPA can bind to estrogen receptors, influencing bodily processes such as growth, cell repair, fetal development, energy levels, and reproduction.

Moreover, BPA may also interfere with other hormone receptors, including those for the thyroid, thereby potentially altering their function.[6]

[6] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31884733/

If you're considering pregnancy and have the opportunity to optimize your physiology for a supportive womb environment and a healthy newborn, explore suitable diet and lifestyle measures to achieve this goal. Reach out to learn more!