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This one thing present in your car can increase the risk of cancer; Throw it away now!
According to experts, drinking water from a bottle kept in a hot car can be harmful to your health, causing various diseases like endocrine disruption and even cancer. If the bottle contains BPA or has been opened, it is best to avoid it. Choosing an insulated reusable water bottle is your best option. Read on to know more.
Microplastics begin to break down in extremely hot conditions
Most people always keep a bottle of water in their car to quench their thirst whenever they want. In the heat of summer, storing water in the car in case of emergency always seems like a good idea, but is it safe to drink water kept in a hot car?
According to experts, microplastics, especially BPA or bisphenol A – a chemical used in the production of certain types of plastics such as plastic and epoxy resins – begin to break down in extremely hot conditions, leading to infertility, thyroid dysfunction and a number of health concerns. Are born. Different types of cancer.
“Within an hour, the microplastics start to break down and with each sip of water you’re drinking, you’re drinking 40 microplastics that get clogged in your channels and can lead to endocrine disruption, hormonal health problems, infertility and here Can even cause cancer,” said Dr. Dimple Jangra while speaking on her social media channel.
“BPA also starts releasing into the water; This chemical leaches about 55 times more when left in a hot car. Remember, the temperature in the car can reach 70 degrees Celsius in the afternoon, creating an even more toxic environment for you.
However, the silver lining here is that many companies no longer use bottles containing BPA and often label them “BPA-free.” However, if you are unsure about the bottle, you should turn it over and look at the recycling codes 1 to 7 at the bottom, which indicate what the bottle is made of.
Water bottles are a breeding ground for bacteria
According to Dr. Jangra, harmful bacteria grow in an open plastic bottle in a hot car. Studies say that bacteria grow fastest in temperatures between 40°F and 140°F, also known as the “danger zone.”
He said, “Not only this, hot plastic is also a breeding ground for bacteria and the number of bacteria can increase by about 400 percent every hour, and the bacteria forms a biofilm, which is not easy to clean from your body.” ,
Is it safe to drink water from a bottle kept in the car for a long time?
According to scientists, it really depends on a few things, like if the disposable bottle is BPA-free and sealed, it may be safe to leave it in a hot car. However, once you break the seal, be sure to drink it immediately and dispose of it.
On the other hand, a clean, reusable aluminum or glass bottle may be a safer option. “Never keep plastic bottles in your car; Always keep a glass bottle or stainless steel bottle with you and fill it with water. Make sure to dispose of all the plastic from your car and even your home, said Dr. Jangra.
Ways to ensure the safety of your water bottle in your car
Apart from avoiding BPA-laden plastic water bottles and bacteria growth, there are some other important things you can follow to ensure that your drinking water is safe:
- Always carry glass or steel bottles with you that are designed for high temperatures.
- Make sure your bottle is thoroughly cleaned with hot, soapy water.
- If you take a sip from any type of bottle, drink it within two hours.
- Always fill your bottle with filtered water.
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