Asthma and Hyperactivity and Plastics

Asthma and Hyperactivity and Plastics

Last night, I attended the first part of a two day conference on plastics.  Green Sangha. http://greensangha.org/2012/02/886/, hosted the  ”Plastics 360” conference.  The first night highlighted the true cost of plastic.  The conversation opened with local leaders discussing local solutions to this global epidemic.  Plastics have been linked to a mile long list of health problems from Asthma and Hyperactivity to Thyroid Disruption.  

Some symptoms that are linked to gluten intolerance are mimicked by plastics.  The conference opened by discussing the option of simply stopping the usage of plastics in the our home environment.  A chemical called PBA leaches from plastic containers, bags and bottles.  PBA’s have been linked to asthma, hyperactivity and other endocrine damaging symptoms.  Overwhelming evidence that links type 2 Diabetis, Hormone Disruption, Prostate issues and twice the risk of heart disease to plastics.  

If you are wondering why some of your gluten intolerant issues are not resolving, I recommend you take your health to the next level and eliminate plastics from your home environment.  This is important for those who are gluten intolerant because some of the symptoms associated with gluten intolerance are mimicked by chemical leaching plastics.  

Another chemical called “Phalates” used to make plastics softer are also linked to damaging to our endocrine system. Often toys such as rubber duckies and shower curtains contain Phalates.  Shocking topics such as fertility disruption are linked to Phalates.  Children are hit the hardest.  Doctors are charting partially feminized boys and higher levels of testosterone in girls. Phalates and BPA are considered the culprit.    

The good news is your toxin levels can be lowered by changing your habits.   Plastic containers without BPA’s are available.  Stylish shopping bags are available as an alternative source of carry-all is suggested.   Stop the use of Phalates by using fragrance free products.  Phalates are hidden in ingredient labels under “frangances”. 

As consumers we can make a difference. Marin County California has an all out ban on Plastics bags.  I thought this was a terrific hassle when going to the drug store but after viewing excerpts from the movie “Plastic State of Mind”, I now think differently.  The movies highlights one man’s journey to understanding plastics in his home and chronicles his journey to eliminate and understand plastic.  All before the birth of his first child.