This epidemic has been mainly attributed to poor diet and a lack of
exercise, but recent research has pointed toward a third factor:
obesogens. Obesogen is the name given to
a category of chemical compounds that have been shown to contribute to weight
gain in children and adults. Included on
this list are bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). All of three of these compounds are commonly
used in some household items, including kitchen utensils and cookware.
Research on these and other obesogens suggests that different compounds
may act differently in our bodies to produce the same result: excess
weight. For example, some compounds
affect the number of fat cells, some the size of fat cells, and others affect
hormones that control appetite, satiety, metabolism, and even food preferences!
BPA is an obesogenic compound that actually reduces the number of fat
cells in humans; however, it programs the remaining individual fat cells to
become much larger. Infants who are
exposed to BPA in the womb may be born underweight because of this effect, but
eventually the child may put on weight because of enlarged fat cells.
Phthalates, another set of obesogens, are a group of compounds commonly
used in plastics to make them more flexible and durable. Recent studies have shown that increased
levels of these compounds are linked to increased weight around the abdomen and
a resistance to insulin.
Lastly, PFOA is a
compound that potentially acts as an endocrine disruptor, meaning it interferes
with our hormones, affecting our appetite, metabolism and more. This compound lowers the surface tension of
liquid, so it is used in nonstick cookware such as Teflon.
With genetics and our cultural habits stacked against us, the last
thing we need is an environment filled with obesogens. To cut these compounds out of your
environment you can start by taking the following steps:
·
BPA is found in the lining of some canned food
and plastic food containers. To reduce
BPA exposure in your kitchen get rid of these items by buying fresh fruits and
vegetables rather than canned, and switch to glass food containers.
·
Phthalates are also found in some food packaging
and containers. Yet another reason to
switch to glass!
·
PFOA is used in nonstick cookware. To avoid this compound switch to cast ironand stainless steel cookware. These products produce a better cooked meal
and healthier food!
~ Jessica
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