Bisphenol A – or BPA – is a hormone disruptor which mimics estrogen in the body. BPA is found in many plastics and the linings of food cans and bottle tops. Studies have shown negative effects on fertility by damaging egg quality and IVF success rates, and sperm quality. BPA is also linked to PCOS and recurrent miscarriage.
The good news is you can limit your exposure to BPA:
- Many products that formerly contained BPA are now BPA-free. Check labels.
- Replace plastic water bottles with glass or stainless steel.
- Replace canned foods – ideally with fresh, unpackaged foods. Boxes and glass bottles are preferable to cans, but some cans are now labeled BPA-free.
- Store food in the pantry and the refrigerator in glass or food-safe metal instead of plastic. Not all ceramic is food safe, so when in doubt avoid that too.
- If you’re not sure if a plastic container has BPA, check its recycling code. A number 7 recycling code probably means it contains BPA. When it doubt, don’t use it – many plastics contain endocrine disruptors.
xo Jennifer
I support and guide women who are trying to conceive using a holistic approach. We work together to meet your goals and prep your body and mind for conception. Contact me to schedule a free discovery session.