Plastics have been losing popularity steadily over the past decade. The reason for this was because of the non-biodegradability of it. Now researchers have come with an even more convincing reason to stop using it.
Not only phthalates, plastics contain several other harmful toxins that cause a lot of systemic damage. It is only a matter of time till the others are discovered.
Recent studies have found that a chemical-phthalate, found in plastic could be a reason for increasing incidences in childhood hypertension.
The American scientists who carried out the study claim flooring, plastic cups, beach balls and plastic packaging that contain the colorless and odorless toxic additives are responsible for the phthalates entering the body.
Phthalates enter the body and cause serious metabolic and hormonal changes during early development.
According to a study published in the Journal of Pediatrics points to the implication of phthalates in heart problems in children along with high blood pressure levels.
Phthalates act by interfering with the functioning of the cardiac cells and has a negative impact on the arteries. This could be a reason for the increase in blood pressure. This remains debatable as the two diseases can be attributed to the growing levels of obesity in children world-over.
The team that conducted checked urine samples of the children and found that for every threefold increase in the phthalate levels, there was only one point increase in the mercury levels.
Researchers claim that on an individual level this may appear insignificant but on the broader perspective this could be a serious implication.
At the end of the day, the fact remains that plastic is a dangerous substance-for the Earth as well as for your health. So Go green and say no to plastics!
