Thursday, March 29, 2018

Ever Heard of Phthalates? They're Everywhere, Even Inside of You!

Phthalates are binding agents frequently used in food packaging as well as a number of other products, including flooring, adhesives, soaps and shampoos. Some forms of the chemical have been banned from children’s products in the United States. Phthalates are everywhere, and the health risks are concerning.

A study reported in the journal Environment International states that certain foods, including burgers and sandwiches, were linked to higher phthalate levels, but only if purchased at a fast-food outlet, restaurant or cafe. According to the study, eating at restaurants and fast food chains may increase exposure to potentially harmful hormone-disrupting chemicals used to increase the flexibility and durability of plastic. The study's findings were especially strong for teenagers. Adolescents who frequently ate at fast-food outlets while out with their friends had 55% higher levels of the chemicals than young people eating at home.

Researchers investigating levels of phthalates in the human body, which have been linked to asthma, breast cancer, type 2 diabetes, pregnancy complications and fertility issues in the past few years, were found to be nearly 35% higher in participants who had eaten out the previous day compared with those who stayed at home.

The study's researchers say their results suggest that food prepared at home is less likely to contain high levels of phthalates. The scientists analyzed data from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey collected between 2005 and 2014.

From Him, Through Him, For Him (Romans 11:36),

Paul J. Staso
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