The Problem with Plastics: How They Sneak Into Our Food—and Our Health

Simple Ways to Reduce Plastic Exposure in Everyday Life

Plastics are everywhere—in our homes, kitchens, food packaging, beverage containers, and even the air we breathe. Designed for convenience, they’ve become a constant part of modern living. But over time, heat, light, and daily wear cause plastics to break down, releasing harmful chemicals into our food, water, and environment. These chemicals can quietly impact our hormones, metabolism, and overall health.

What Are Plasticizers? The Hidden Hormone Disruptors

Plasticizers are chemicals added to plastics to make them flexible, durable, and transparent. Common examples include phthalates and BPA (Bisphenol A)—both known endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Endocrine disruptors can mimic or block natural hormones, leading to problems with metabolism, fertility, thyroid health, and more.

Microplastics and Nanoplastics: Tiny Particles, Big Risks

Microplastics are tiny fragments between 1 nanometer and 5 millimeters in size (a human hair is about 80,000 nanometers wide). They can form when larger plastic items break down or be manufactured intentionally. Nanoplasticsare even smaller and may be more harmful because they can penetrate cells and tissues.

Common Sources of Microplastics in Food and Drink:

• Disposable coffee cups (plastic linings)

• Plastic water bottles

• Plastic teabags

• Food packaging and plastic pipes

• Certain seafood

  
  

Possible Health Effects of Microplastics:

• Gut inflammation and microbiome disruption

• Impaired fetal growth and development

• Reduced sperm count and quality

• Increased risk of heart attack and stroke

• Hormonal imbalance and fertility challenges

BPA and “BPA-Free” Products: Are They Safer?

Bisphenol A (BPA) is used in hard plastics, food containers, and the linings of cans.Linked to:

• Obesity and insulin resistance

• Type 2 diabetes

• Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

• Cardiovascular disease

  
  

BPA Replacements (BPS, BPF) are found in many “BPA-free” products, including reusable water bottles and canned goods.Associated with:

• Hormonal disruption

• Anxiety and poor sleep quality

• Fertility problems

• Pregnancy complications

Key takeaway: “BPA-free” does not always mean safe—replacements can carry similar risks.

How to Reduce Plastic Exposure in Food and Drink

You don’t need to be perfect—small, consistent choices can make a real difference.

🍽 Food & Storage

• Choose fresh, whole foods over packaged or processed items

• Limit fast food and takeout in plastic containers

• Store and reheat food in glass, stainless steel, or ceramic instead of plastic

• Never microwave in plastic, even if labeled “microwave-safe”

• Reduce canned foods when possible, as many still contain BPA or analogs

💧 Beverages & Bottles

• Use stainless steel or glass water bottles

• Hand wash plastic bottles in warm—not hot—water to prevent breakdown

• Bring your own reusable mug to coffee shops

🧂 Cooking Tools & Packaging

• Swap plastic wrap for beeswax wraps or reusable silicone covers

• Use wooden or bamboo cooking utensils and cutting boards

• Choose biodegradable paper tea bags or loose-leaf tea instead of plastic teabags

Why Reducing Plastic Exposure Matters for Hormone Health

Plastics may seem harmless, but many contain chemicals that can disrupt hormone balance, increase inflammation, and impact fertility. Over time, reducing your exposure can lower the burden of these toxins on your body.

If you’re wondering how environmental toxins may be affecting your well-being, I invite you to schedule a consultation with me at Way Integrative & Functional. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to protect your health—naturally.