The online journal, Kidney International, released the findings of a new study today. The study found an association between high levels of Bisphenol A (commonly referred to as BPA) in children and higher risk of kidney and heart damage.
Researchers analyzed the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data from 2009-2010. In the more than 700 surveys, researchers found that kids who had higher levels of BPA in their urine also had higher albumin-to-creatinine ratios. Albumin in the urine is an indication of damage to the kidneys. High levels of albumin have also been linked to future heart disease.
BPA is an industrial chemical used in the manufacturing of some types of plastics. It is commonly found in the lining of aluminum cans and some water bottles, as well as numerous other products. We accumulate BPA in our bodies when the chemical seeps into the foods and drinks we consume. Last year, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the use of BPA in any baby bottles or sippy cups. The FDA made this move because more and more studies are highlighting the health dangers associated with BPA exposure.
The government is slowly making strides towards limiting BPA exposure, but the end of BPA is nowhere in sight. It is such a widely used chemical that has been in our products for over 50 years, so phasing it out would take a tremendous effort. You can, however, limit your own exposure to BPA. Check out this article for easy tips for limiting the amount of BPA you come into contact with.
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