President's Prescription: BPA

LUBBOCK, TX (KCBD) - These days, it seems like everything we eat, drink or buy comes wrapped in plastic. But with the convenience comes the concern that there might be something unhealthy about plastics.

Plastic is one of those inventions that has changed the modern world. In fact, more than 200 billion plastic bottles alone are produced every year. Now, apart from the concern about littering, there are some people that are concerned about one of its ingredients, called BPA, and the effect that it may have on health. Here's what we know so far.

According to a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there's no doubt that BPA is being absorbed in our bodies. In fact, the study found more than 90% of human urine samples analyzed contained BPA. But what are the effects of this exposure?

Scientists are still investigating, but evidence suggests BPA may affect reproductive, heart and brain health. Other possible correlations include elevated BPA levels and increased rates of breast cancer, asthma, blood pressure and even Type 2 diabetes.

However, the Food and Drug Administration has said that BPA is safe at the low levels that occur in our products. They've based this assessment on hundreds of studies, but continue to conduct further research to understand fully the effects of BPA.

So if you are still concerned, you can actually look for bottles that are "BPA Free". Another option, don't use single use bottles, but instead use one that's reusable such as one that's made from metal.

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