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Why Should I Stop Using Plastics?

In this article, we will explore the compelling reasons why we may need to stop using plastics and switch to better alternatives.

Did you know that some of your daily routines such as using plastic have an impact on your health?  In this article, we will explore the compelling reasons why we may need to stop using plastics and switch to better alternatives. We will examine the alarming connections between plastics and cancer, autoimmune illnesses, and hormone disruption, providing insights into the potential dangers that you may not have previously been informed about. Keep reading to learn more about the connection between plastic and our overall health…

Why Should I Stop Using Plastics?

In today's world, the subject of why we should give up using plastic is becoming more and more important. Plastics are already a commonplace item in our lives, but despite their ease, they have unintended negative effects on the environment and human health.

The effect that plastics have on our health is one of the main worries. Studies have demonstrated that specific compounds included in plastics, like phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), can seep into food and drinks that they come into contact with. Since these substances are recognized endocrine disruptors, they may cause disruptions to our hormone systems. That said, long-term exposure to these substances has been connected to many health concerns, such as tumors related to hormones, difficulty with fertility, and developmental impairments.

Giving up plastic is not just a decision about one's health; it's also an ethical and environmental one. We may lessen our exposure to dangerous chemicals and contribute to addressing the plastic pollution catastrophe by lowering our dependency on plastics in our everyday lives.

How Does Using Plastic and Cooking with Plastic Affect Health Status?

The utilization of plastic, particularly for culinary purposes and the preservation of food, might have detrimental impacts on one's well-being and health. Plastics possess a range of compounds and chemicals that have the potential to migrate into food and drinks, especially when subjected to high temperatures, sunlight, or acidic conditions. Some of the ways that plastic affects our health include but are not limited to:

  • Chemical Leaching: Chemical leaching refers to the process by which hazardous substances such as bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, and styrene are released from plastics. Upon contact with food or liquids, these compounds can permeate into them, causing potential health concerns for the body once consumed.
  • Hormonal Disruptions: Endocrine-disrupting compounds included in plastics can disrupt the body's hormone systems, leading to hormonal disruption. Extended exposure to these substances has been associated with hormonal disruptions, reproductive issues, and an elevated susceptibility to hormone-related malignancies, such as breast and prostate cancer.
  • Microplastic Ingestion: Microplastics are minuscule plastic particles that have permeated different areas of our environment, including the food we ingest. Studies indicate that humans consume microplastics through the food chain. Although the health ramifications are still under investigation, there are apprehensions over possible enduring health consequences.
  • Food Contamination: Plastic products have the potential to harbor dangerous bacteria and diseases as they break down. When preparing and storing food, using plastic utensils and containers raises the possibility of contamination and possible sickness.

Recognizing the potential health hazards linked to the use of plastics, particularly concerning food, emphasizes the significance of pursuing alternative options. Adopting alternative, plastic-free choices for cooking, food storage, and beverage containers can diminish the risk of exposure to these detrimental chemicals and promote improved overall well-being.

What Are the Effects of Using Plastic for People with Cancer, Autoimmune, or Hormone Conditions?

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let us analyze the impacts of utilizing plastic on individuals with particular health conditions:

The Effects on Cancer

The utilization of plastics can have adverse effects on those who are afflicted with cancer, thus necessitating heightened vigilance in their exposure to such materials. Plastic containers, particularly when exposed to heat, can emit detrimental substances such as BPA and phthalates, which are recognized as endocrine disruptors. These substances can imitate hormones within the body, which might stimulate the growth of tumors. Minimizing the use of plastic in storing and preparing food can help decrease exposure to harmful compounds and aid individuals undergoing cancer treatment.

The Effects on Autoimmune Disorders

Individuals with autoimmune disorders must abstain from using plastic in their daily lives. Plastics may include chemicals such as BPA and phthalates, which can disturb the immune system and worsen autoimmune reactions. These substances have the potential to initiate or exacerbate autoimmune symptoms and inflammation. Transitioning to non-plastic options for food and beverage storage, as well as cooking utensils, can be a proactive measure in controlling autoimmune disorders by minimizing exposure to immune-disrupting chemicals.

The Effects on Hormonal Disorders

The utilization of plastics can have an impact on hormone-related health concerns, such as thyroid disorders, reproductive troubles, and hormonal imbalances. Plastic containers and cookware may introduce endocrine-disrupting chemicals, such as BPA, into the diet, which might potentially worsen hormone-related conditions. Individuals suffering from such conditions should contemplate transitioning to hormone-safe alternatives such as glass, stainless steel, or silicone to store and cook food, to promote their hormonal well-being.

To summarize, individuals who have cancer, autoimmune disorders, or hormone-related health diseases should exercise caution when it comes to their exposure to plastics, since the chemicals found in plastics may have adverse effects on their health in the long term. Adopting safer, non-plastic alternatives in our daily lives can help reduce these dangers and promote general well-being.

What Are the Best Alternatives to Plastics

When evaluating alternatives to plastics, it is crucial to give priority to materials that are both safe and durable, while also being environmentally sustainable. Below are a few superior substitutes for plastics:

  1. Glass: Glass containers are a superb option for storing food. These items are non-toxic, meaning they do not release harmful chemicals into food, and they are also easy to clean. Glass exhibits resistance to stains and smells, rendering it a secure choice for persons with health considerations.
  1. Stainless Steel: Stainless steel containers and cookware provide durability, non-reactivity, and resistance to rust and discoloration. They are an excellent option for preserving both hot and cold foods and beverages. Stainless steel is a non-reactive material that does not impart any taste or smell to your food.
  1. Silicone: Silicone is a pliable and thermally resistant substance that is suitable for culinary purposes, such as cooking, baking, and food preservation. Silicone food storage bags and baking molds serve as superb substitutes for plastic. Silicone is innocuous, effortless to cleanse, and can endure a broad spectrum of temperatures.
  1. Beeswax: Beeswax wraps are an eco-friendly substitute for plastic wrap that can be used to cover food. The fabric is composed of cotton that has been mixed with a mixture of beeswax, resin, and jojoba oil. Beeswax wraps can be used multiple times, they can break down naturally, and they create a permeable shield that helps maintain the freshness of food.
  1. Bamboo: Bamboo is a sustainable and biodegradable substance that can be used as a substitute for plastic in a variety of items. Bamboo cutting boards, utensils, and toothbrushes are environmentally beneficial substitutes.

By selecting these options, individuals can minimize their contact with pollutants associated with plastic and contribute to a healthier and more environmentally friendly way of living.

Summary: The Importance of Cutting Back on Plastic Usage

To summarize this article, minimizing or eliminating the use of plastic in our daily routines can provide substantial benefits for our general health and well-being. It is imperative to reassess our choices due to the potential health hazards associated with plastic, such as hormone disruption and the presence of carcinogenic substances.

Opting for alternatives to plastics not only enhances our well-being but also fosters a more sustainable ecosystem. By selecting safer materials and adopting safer methods, we may reduce our vulnerability to hazardous substances and foster a cleaner, more sustainable living environment. Long term, this can enhance both our health but also our quality of life.

Learn More About the Reasons to Say Goodbye to Plastics for Optimal Health at Mitogenesis in Scottsdale, AZ

To learn more about why it's in your best interest to cut out plastics for the sake of your health, our experts at Mitogenesis can help. Dr. Mel Schottenstein can offer you helpful advice on how to live a healthy lifestyle by cutting back on plastic consumption. To help you on your path to better health, we offer ongoing guidance on the health risks associated with plastics and may point you in the direction of more appropriate alternatives based on your needs.

To meet with Dr. Mel Schottenstein, get in touch with us by giving us a call or by filling out a contact form with your information and we will book you in for a one-on-one appointment right away! 

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