In a surprising twist, the FDA has finally banned BPA compounds in plastics when manufacturing baby bottles and “sippy” cups. It is still, however, allowing baby food containers, and all other plastics to contain them. And how can we avoid the negative side affects since we’re probably not getting rid of plastics any time soon? I use a few simple methods which I can go into momentarily.
Why is BPA bad? Research shows that this chemical used in making plastics mimics estrogen, and that the body cannot tell the difference between this “xeno-estrogen” and the real thing. Increased estrogen leads to testosterone imbalances in men and a number of problems along with it, and increases risks of breast cancer, menopausal problems and other issues in women.
It’s no small victory this has finally been eliminated from children’s products in the States. BPAs are believed to have serious possible side effects on the development of fetuses, infants and toddlers, disturbing hormone balances. Knowing all of this, though, one is befuddled by why these are considered okay for adults, and why the FDA would only ban children’s products.
The disappointing revelation is that the agency appears only to have banned this because the industry was asking them to. Most plastics manufacturers have already banned BPAs from children’s products over concerns expressed by scientists and vocal parents, and wanted it made known that they have addressed it. So the FDA continues to serve often times as a representative of business, and not the health of the American consumer.
The GREATEST revelation rising from all of this, I believe, is that it shows the power of the people to affect change. Some may prefer that positive change would come first from the agency that is supposed to protect us, but even if they fail, our voices are heard and consumers can make them listen. If our government too often serves big business, then we just have to make sure big business is serving us.
Never has this been so poignant as it is now with the upcoming “Label GMOs” bill in California, which, if passed will require the labeling of all genetically modified foods on their packaging, and will likely spread nationwide in a short time.
So how can one protect themselves? We can’t recommend anyone do anything specifically, but avoiding BPA plastics is an obvious start. Here are a few handy tricks & tools of the trade I use.
• Phase out plastics: I gradually began phasing out plastic cups for glass and ceramics. I am more likely to hang on to glass jars and containers, and grab those if I need a container on the go rather than a styrofoam, Tupperware or plastic travel mug. Since they’re leftovers from food or drinks I bought, it’s no problem if I need to dispose of them in a public recycling bin the way I would a paper cup.
• Use BPA-Free Plastics: When I do use plastics, I try to use only BPA free. These are very common now, and just like how they were eliminated from children’s products long before the FDA required it, manufacturers are supplying the demand for non-toxic plastics from adults – you just need be on the lookout for it. Generally BPA-free plastics aren’t supposed to be put under extreme heat, so keep that in mind when using your dishwasher.
• Tribulus: I have a little tribulus a few times a week to help counter the effects of all the xeno-estrogens bombarding my environment and body. This is because Tribulus is an herb that is supposed to give your body what it needs to make the proper amount of testosterone naturally. If you’re out of balance, it is “adaptogenic” and shown to get your system in check. Unlike synthetic hormones, or hormone replacements, it only makes what’s needed – an important function as any extra testosterone the body can’t utilize becomes, yup… more estrogen.
• Cruciferous vegetables: Broccoli is especially shown to block the absorption (or manufacturing – not sure of the term there) of estrogen and xeno-estrogens. Other veggies in this family include cauliflower, kale & brussel sprouts.
Creating little protocols like this for yourself and making them a regular part of your lifestyle is key to living a natural, optimal life in the modern world.
HEALTH INSURGENCE 
2012/07/18
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