Scratches in plastic lead to leaching
Bits of plastic get into your food from containers through a process called leaching, and when plastic is scratched, it speeds up the leaching process. For that reason, be sure to throw out worn plastic items (such as food storage containers). To further avoid this toxic transfer, eat less canned food and more frozen or fresh food. Also, avoid using bottles and plastic containers that are made from polycarbonate (often marked with a number 7 or the letters PC) and phthalates (marked with a number 3 or PVC).
Plastic could take away natural serenity
“We associate peace, relaxation, and good health with our coastlines,” says Brian Yurasits, Director of Development at The TerraMar Project, which raises awareness for ocean issues. Researchers at Michigan State University show that people who live near the water report less psychological distress. “People visit beaches and waterways to satisfy our natural inclination to be near the ocean,” says Yurasits. “If plastics become more pervasive in these natural places, then people won’t be able to get that same escape from reality and the stress-relief that they need.” Do you struggle with stress? Head here to learn how to relax.
What recycling numbers really mean
What’s with those numbers on the bottoms of plastic products anyways? According to a new report from The American Academy of Paediatrics, steer clear of plastics with the recycling numbers 3, 6 and 7. Those numbers directly correspond to the chemicals that disrupt the endocrine system (phthalates, styrene, and bisphenols).