It would be an understatement and a very obvious thing to say that drinking water is essential for good health. But here’s a catch. It is indeed beneficial unless you drink from plastic bottles. Yes we know, you don’t wish to carry a water bottle, so you keep on buying it from shops whenever you feel thirsty.
However, the next time you stop to buy a plastic packaged bottle, think twice. Drinking water from plastic bottles is not good for health. You will still be drinking water as is, but with it, you will be taking in certain harmful particles.
The culprits and associated health risks
Let’s visit the several factors in detail that contribute to the ongoing debate about their safety:
Microplastics:
Microplastics and chemical leaching are the two culprits that pose health risks. These are tiny particles of plastics are found in multiple water sources due to contamination of water bodies. These microparticles can find a way into the packaged drinking water. Not to mention, plastic bottles are primarily made from polyethene terephthalate (PET), a type of plastic generally considered safe for food and beverage packaging.
The long-term health effects of ingesting microplastics are still under investigation.
Chemical leaching:
While PET is generally safe, certain chemicals, such as bisphenol A (BPA), can leach into water, especially when bottles are exposed to heat or sunlight. While BPA is no longer widely used in food packaging, other chemicals may be present.
Health risks:
Hormonal Disruption:
Many plastic bottles, especially those containing BPA or similar chemicals, can act as endocrine disruptors. BPA (bisphenol A) and its substitutes, such as BPS (bisphenol S) and BPF (bisphenol F), can interfere with the body’s hormonal system. This disruption can lead to various health issues, including:
Reproductive Problems:
Hormonal imbalances can affect fertility and reproductive health. In males, BPA exposure has been linked to reduced sperm quality and lower testosterone levels. In females, it may contribute to ovarian dysfunction and reproductive cancers.
Developmental Issues:
Exposure to these chemicals from plastic containers and bottles during pregnancy can impact fetal development, potentially leading to developmental delays and behavioural problems in children.
Increased Cancer Risk:
Long-term exposure to endocrine disruptors linked with plastic consumption has been associated with a higher risk of cancers such as breast cancer and prostate cancer.
Nervous system problems
Plastics contain various additives, such as colourants, stabilisers, and flame retardants, which can leach into the water. Some of these additives are potentially toxic and may contribute to health problems that can affect the nervous system, potentially leading to cognitive impairments and neurological disorders.
Immune system effects:
Exposure to plastic additives may impact immune system function, making individuals more susceptible to infections and autoimmune diseases.
Solution: Opt for alternatives
To minimise potential risks and reduce environmental impact, consider these alternatives:
Reusable water bottles:
Opt for stainless steel, glass, or aluminium bottles. These are durable, reusable, and free from chemical leaching.
Tap water:
If your local water supply is safe to drink, consider using a reusable water bottle to fill up from the tap.
Water filters:
Invest in a water filter for your home to improve water quality and reduce the need for bottled water.
Caution: Increased risk when plastic containers are heated or reused
When plastic bottles are exposed to high temperatures or are reused, they may degrade more rapidly and release additional chemicals into the water. This can exacerbate the risk of exposure to harmful substances and increase the potential health impacts.
Closing thoughts
The health risks associated with plastic water bottles include hormonal disruption, toxic chemical exposure, potential toxicity from microplastics, and increased risks from heat and degradation. Reducing reliance on plastic bottles and opting for alternatives can help mitigate these risks.
