|
|
Metabolic dysfunction is a term used to describe an impairment in how the body uses and stores energy and can be associated with higher rates of obesity and diabetes. Obesity and type-2 diabetes have been steadily rising in the Canadian population (and in other countries as well), and it is suspected that prenatal exposure to environmental contaminants is a contributing factor. These two diseases are metabolic in nature, affecting both fat metabolism and carbohydrate (sugar) metabolism. A feature common to both these metabolic processes is the involvement of specific hormones. Certain environmental contaminants, such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, can potentially disrupt these hormones and are thus referred to as “hormone (or endocrine) disruptors”. BPA is used to make a hard, clear plastic and may also be found in epoxy resin linings on the inside of metal-based food and beverage cans. Thermal papers such as receipts and tickets may also be a source of BPA. Phthalates are a family of chemicals commonly used to make plastics soft and flexible and harder to break. They are often called plasticizers and have a large number of industrial and commercial uses – for example, vinyl flooring, adhesives, detergents, automotive plastics, some children’s toys, and personal-care products (soaps, shampoos, hair spray, nail polishes). Some phthalates are also used as solvents for other materials. Given the widespread use of BPA and phthalates, the Canadian public has become increasingly aware of the presence of these chemicals in the environment, and there is growing concern about their possible negative health effects.
|
