• For years, plastic bottles have been an integral part of our daily life. However, the scientific community has started deliberating over the side effects of chemicals used in their manufacture; they are studying the effects of how they may interfere with the liquids they carry. This has led to scientific evidence that suggests that ingredients such as bisphenol A (also known as BPA) in these plastic containers mimic the female sex hormone estradiol.
  
  

BPA

• Since research suggests that BPA (clinically classified as xenoestrogen) present in these plastic containers mimics the naturally occurring estrogen hormone in females, estradiol, BPA has therefore been categorized as an Endocrine Disruptive Chemical (EDC). This is a broad classification of chemicals affecting the endocrine system's ability to maintain the natural hormonal balance in humans and thus poses a health threat.
  
  BPA is a high-production volume chemical used in manufacturing polycarbonate plastic and resins. It is widely used in synthesis of products such as food and drink containers, CDs, DVDs, electrical and electronic equipment, automobiles and sports safety equipment. BPA can also be found in printer ink, recycled paper, the lining of soda cans and dental sealants.
  
  

Sexual Disorders

• BPA present in plastic products may lead to male sexual problems like erectile dysfunction, and may also be an early indicator of other health risks that are more difficult to diagnose, such as cancer or metabolic diseases. In general, BPA can cause sexual disorders such as early puberty, breast tumors, testicular cancer and fertility problems related to the generation of non-viable eggs or low-motility sperm.
  
  

Physiological Disorder

• Although research is still not conclusive, ongoing studies suggest that BPA can also lead to obesity. BPA triggers fibroblast cells to differentiate into adipocytes. Second, in the presence of insulin, it accelerates adipocyte formation. Further, it is lipophilic and resistant to metabolism.
  
  Similar research also suggests that even low levels of BPA exposure can cause a variety of other serious health problems such as hyperactivity, attention deficit disorder and learning disabilities. It can also impair the natural growth of humans and may have carcinogenic effects.
  
  

Child Health

• BPA can also have a lasting impact on the health of children. Certain studies suggest that it can lead to neurological problems in children and may also have adverse effects on pregnancy, causing disorders and impairing growth in the developing fetus. This is because of its ability to bio-concentrate up the food chain, getting stored in body fats and being subsequently transferred to the developing offspring via the placenta or egg.
  
  

Protection

• While it may be difficult to stop using plastic altogether, it can be avoided in containers used for food and drink. Specifically, people should refrain from using plastic food containers other than those marked with recycling labels 1, 2 and 4, as they do not contain BPA.