Children’s toys and drinking and food containers all contain a chemical that could be part of the increase in childhood obesity.
According to Dr. Bridget Maher, from Queensland Children’s Medical Research Institute and the University of Queensland, Bisphenol A (BPA) may promote fat accumulation in cells and increase insulin resistance. The research followed almost 5,000 children and studied the effects of BPA on their body. The reported that children who were exposed to the highest levels of BPA had a 40 percent greater risk of obesity than the kids who were exposed to the least amount.
On the opposite side, Food Standards Australia New Zealand, said there is “no health or safety issue at the levels people are exposed to.”
However, parents should be aware of their children’s exposure to BPA and limit it. They can use glass and stainless steel products for eating and drinking. Buying toys made from wood and fabric can reduce exposure. Instead of putting plastic containers in the microwave or dishwasher it is better to hand wash them.
