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BPA is an organic compound used in plastics to strengthen them and make them shatterproof. However, its structure closely resembles estrogen, and therefore could make the body think it is getting an extra boost of estrogen.

BPA can cause serious toxicity in the body and cause symptoms such as early puberty, prostate cancer, fetal or infant mortality, birth defects, breast cancer, infertility, and other serious health problems.

So how do you know if your plastic water bottle (or your infant’s bottle) contains BPA, and how does the dangerous chemical get into your water? It’s really hard to tell if your water bottle is made of BPA. Most plastics that contain the recycling label #7 on the bottom have BPA, but not all. This works as a useful guideline though. Also, most of our trusty Nalgene and Camelback bottles have BPA as well, so consider recycling them immediately. Nalgene and Camelback are both making new, BPA-free versions of their bottles, so support them by buying new ones! Read about which water bottles are safe.

BPA leaches (or seeps) when your water sits for long periods (days or weeks) in the bottle, and also as the bottle starts to age and breakdown. Some say washing your bottle with soap and water will help lessen your exposure, others advocate for recycling your plastic bottle immediately and buying a metal or glass water bottle. However, make sure the new stainless steel bottle doesn’t have a plastic liner!

How else are you exposed to BPA? Canned sodas, soups and pastas contain BPA as well. Cut back on the amount of canned food you consume, and also remember not to microwave your food in plastic containers. Use ceramic or glass instead.

But please, remember to recycle! Don’t trade one environmental/health problem for another. There is now a wave of people throwing away their old bottles and filling up the landfills! Your bottles are recyclable!