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Beauty & Health

The Truth About Plastics And Your Health

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Beauty & Health

The Truth About Plastics And Your Health

We’re breaking down the facts about which plastics you should be buying and which you should kick to the curb for the sake of your health.

by By Natalya Molok  /   August 4, 2016

Anything made out of plastics – be they containers, bottles, linings and even baby toys – can leach chemicals, which are not safe for the environment or your health. The good news is that we do have some measure of control over the type of plastics we should use. Always check the bottom of your bottles and containers for the number listed in a triangle to let you know if it is safe or unsafe. (Safer choices are coded 1, 2, 4 and 5. Avoid 3, 6 and most plastics labeled 7.) Secondly, never heat your plastic. This means no microwaving, dishwashing, hot food or beverages, or leaving your water or juice in the hot sun. Read on to find out more about plastics commonly found in everyday life:

https://www.womensweekly.com.sg/gallery/beauty-and-health/truth-about-plastics-and-health/
The Truth About Plastics And Your Health
1. PET OR PETE (Polyethylene terephtalate)
image

Studies indicate that this plastic is safe for one-time use. As a precaution, however, these bottles should not be reused or heated. Common usage of PET/PETE includes bottles for water, cooking oil and soft drinks.

Photo: Pixabay
2. HDPE (High-density polyethylene)
image

Limit how often you refill containers made of HDPE. It can be recycled one time into new secondary products such as fabric, carpet or plastic lumber. Common usage of HDPE includes juice bottles, containers for detergent, shampoo and motor oil, and toys.

Photo: Pixabay
3. PVC (Polyvinyl chloride)
image

The manufacture of PVC creates dioxin, a potent carcinogen that contaminates humans, animals and the environment. PVC may also contain phthalates to soften it. These hormone disrupting chemicals have been linked to male reproductive problems and birth defects.

Photo: Pixabay
4. LDPE (Low-density polyethylene)
image

LDPE is one of the safer plastics. Common usage of LDPE includes grocery store bags, plastic wrap for household use and garbage bags. Try to reduce waste by bringing a reusable bag instead.

Photo: Pixabay
5. PP (polypropylene)
image

PP is one of the safer plastics, but be sure to recycle wherever possible. Common usage of PP includes ice cream and yogurt containers, drinking straws, syrup bottles, salad bar containers and diapers.

Photo: Pixabay
6. PS (Polystyrene)
image

PS can leach styrene, a known neurotoxin with other harmful health effects. Try to avoid using products housed in PS-manufactured containers, this includes styrofoam. Common usage of PS includes coffee cups and meat trays, and opaque plastic spoons and forks.

Photo: Pixabay
7. OTHERS
image

This category is a mixed bag, which needs further investigation. It includes polycarbonate, a plastic made from BPA, a harmful synthetic estrogen. Manufacturers use polycarbonate to make large 1-litre water bottles, sports bottles, clear plastic cutlery or the lining of metal food cans. It also includes some new, compostable green plastics, such as those made from corn, potatoes, rice or tapioca.

Photo: Pixabay
  • TAGS:
  • BPA
  • chemicals
  • exposure
  • Health
  • leaching
  • phthalates
  • plastic
  • toxic
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