Hidden dangers of the 'Everywhere Chemicals " - The Pthalates & BPA

What is Bisphenol-A (BPA)?BPA is used to make polycarbonate plastic, a shatter-resistant and clear material used in products ranging from plastic bottles and eyeglasses to sports safety equipment.  BPA is also found in baby bottles, sippy cups, teethers, water bottles, food storage containers, and the lining of many food and beverage cans.  

C₁₅H₁₆O₂ or (CH₃)₂C(C₆H₄OH)₂  

What are phthalates?  

Phthalates  are esters of phthalic acid (or benzene-1,2-dicarboxylic acid). They include di-ethyl phthalate (DEP), di-isobutyl phthalate (DIBP), di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP), and di-n-octyl phthalate (DOP), to name a few.

Phthalates are a group of chemicals used to make plastics more flexible and harder to break. They are often called plasticizers. Some phthalates are used as solvents (dissolving agents) for other materials. They are used in hundreds of products, such as vinyl flooring, adhesives, detergents, lubricating oils, automotive plastics, plastic clothes (raincoats), and personal-care products (soaps, shampoos, hair sprays, and nail polishes). Phthalates are used widely in polyvinyl chloride plastics, which are used to make products such as plastic packaging film and sheets, garden hoses, inflatable toys, blood-storage containers, medical tubing, and some children's toys. Also responsible for the smell of new vinyl shower curtains and  a frequent component of fragrances used in air freshners , detergents , cleaning products . They show up in cosmetics to hold color and scents and have been found in nail polish and treatments .

DBP ( dibutylphthalate)    Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate, DEHP; dioctyl phthalate, DOP),   Diisobutylphthalate  BPA can leach from plastic containers into foods and beverages, especially when they are heated, or used for long periods of time. Also, when kids put toys, teethers, and other products that contain phthalates in their mouths, the chemical may leach from the product to the child.  Animal studies have shown that exposure to BPA can have developmental effects. In laboratory animals, exposure to high levels of BPA has been associated with adverse effects on reproduction. Some human studies suggest a possible effect of BPA on reproductive hormones, especially in men exposed to high levels in the workplace, but human data are not sufficient to determine if BPA adversely affects reproduction. Animal studies have associated phthalate exposure with adverse effects on the liver, kidney, and male and female reproductive system, especially when exposures occur to the developing organism. Tips to minimize exposure to BPA and Phthalates: Use refillable glass, porcelain and stainless-steel containers for food and beverages, particularly for hot foods and liquids.  When you have something plastic, look at the little triangle on the bottom of the container. Avoiding plastic containers marked with a 1 or a 7 pc and instead choosing those marked with a 2, 4, or 5 will reduce the likelihood of exposure to BPA and phthalates. Glass baby bottles are recommended for babies who don't yet feed themselves. For bottle feeding, since latex rubber nipples may contain phthalates, use of silicone nipples may reduce phthalate exposure. Do not use plastic containers in microwaves.   To minimize exposure to phthalates, avoid vinyl toys, perfumed shampoo and lotion. Choose fragrance-free products whenever possible. Companies are now making baby bottles, food containers, teethers, shampoo, lotions, and other children’s items that are "BPA-free" and/or "phthalate-free.” Always read the package label or check with the manufacturer to know what you are bringing into your home.