Study has discovered some chemicals used in plastics may after all be harmful for health

Sanam Reza
Benchmark Reporter: July 10, 2015

Two chemicals believed to be safe, in a new study has now been declared to be linked to increased blood pressure, insulin resistance, and other dangerous health problems in children. These chemicals are used in a variety of consumer products including, plastics, cosmetics, and soap.

A phthalate called DEHP, which was associated with hypertension; therefore, succeeded by these two chemicals believed to be a safer alternative. The use of these two chemicals; -isononyl (DINP) and di-isodecyl (DIDP), has been increasing over the past decade but, only recently been fully tested.

The urine of over 1,300 adolescents between the age of 8 and 19 were tested by the researchers of one of the study from the NYU Langone Medical Center. They found levels of DINP and DIDP corresponding to levels in blood pressure. The same team performed another study that involves 356 teens. They found similar associations between the chemical levels and insulin resistance, which can lead to diabetes.

The researchers made few recommendations after this study such as, for people to limit their exposure to these compounds by avoiding plastics marked with 3, 6, and 7. They also, suggested that everyone should go for fresh food rather than the packaged ones. They also, warned not to put plastic containers in the microwave or dishwasher, where it is easier to pull in chemicals.

The researchers’ report also included that it is not the first time plasticizing chemicals assumed to be safe has been retested and discovered to be otherwise. Last year, Mother Jones investigated the dangers of BPA-free plastics. Plastic industry’s “Big-Tobacco” style campaign was exposed by Mariah Blake that showed how their products were connected to a series of health problems. And, the US government’s failure to act on it.

(read the full article at Benchmark Reporter