Quick Tip: Safe Water Bottles

Stay hydrated this summer but be sure to use safe water bottles AKA bottles without BPA.

Bisphenol A, commonly referred to as BPA, is a harmful chemical compound that is found in many materials that make plastics. BPA has been linked to several health issues including heart disease, diabetes, and  liver abnormalities. The age groups that are at highest risk for health complications as a result of BPA exposure are infants and children, however BPA poses a risk to people of all ages.

Adding heat to plastics that are contaminated with BPA can cause more of the chemical to leech into food and drink.

The commercial use of BPA dates back to 1957.  Most plastic that contains BPA often doesn't display any information regarding the chemical, but the plastic codes 3 and 7 are most likely to contain BPA, However, water bottles and other plastics that are BPA free often contain a label or sticker declaring that the product is free of the chemical. Stainless steel and aluminum water bottles are considered the safest but are a little more pricey.

To see many water bottle options check out: http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/water+bottles.html