A new study published in Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety reveals that consuming food or liquids from plastic takeout containers can increase the risk of congestive heart failure. Researchers found that even short-term exposure to particles leaching into food or liquid from plastic can alter gut biome, affect gut microbiota composition, and cause damage to heart muscle tissue.
The study involved feeding rats water exposed to boiling water in plastic containers for different intervals, ranging from 1 minute to 15 minutes. After three months, the rats’ feces showed changes to their gut biome, and examination of their heart tissue found “extensive” damage. The researchers noted that the rats suffered damage regardless of how long they ingested the contaminated water.
The study’s findings are significant because plastics contain endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, and plasticizers, which are linked to higher cardiovascular disease risk. The researchers recommend avoiding using plastic containers for high-temperature food, reducing daily use of plastic products, and implementing timely plastic pollution control measures to prevent ongoing harm to human health.
The study’s authors emphasize the need for further research but stress that existing data suggests a clear link between plastic exposure and increased CVD risk.
Source: https://people.com/eating-from-plastic-takeout-containers-can-cause-extensive-heart-damage-11681064