BPA

Bisphenol A

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What's

BPA

Bisphenol A, often known as BPA, is a chemical compound that's been used in the manufacturing of certain plastics and resins since the 1960s. It's commonly found in food and drink packaging, like water bottles and canned goods, as well as in some medical devices and dental sealants. BPA is a concern because it can seep into food or beverages from containers that are made with it, and research has shown that nearly everyone has BPA in their body. Once in the body, BPA behaves like the hormone estrogen, which can potentially alter the body's hormonal balance. It can bind to estrogen receptors and influence bodily processes like growth, cell repair, fetal development, energy levels, and reproduction. While our bodies are designed to quickly break down and eliminate BPA, consistent exposure can lead to higher levels in the body, potentially disrupting normal hormone functions. It's important to note that the full impact of BPA on human health is still being studied, but reducing exposure where possible is generally recommended.

If Your Levels Are High

High levels of Bisphenol A (BPA) in the body could indicate frequent exposure to certain plastics and resins, particularly those used in food and beverage containers, CDs, DVDs, and thermal paper. This chemical compound is known to seep into food or drinks from containers made with BPA, which could be a significant source of exposure. Additionally, certain medications packaged in BPA-containing materials could also contribute to elevated levels. Therefore, high BPA levels might suggest a high intake of canned foods or beverages, frequent handling of thermal paper like sales receipts, or regular use of certain medications. It's important to note that while BPA is widely used due to its effectiveness in creating clear, tough plastics, there is ongoing research into its potential health impacts.

Symptoms of High Levels

Symptoms of high levels of Bisphenol A are not typically noticeable, as BPA is a subtle, chronic exposure chemical. However, some research suggests potential links to a variety of health effects including hormonal disruption and potential impacts on the heart and brain.

If Your Levels are Low

BPA, or Bisphenol A, is a chemical found in many everyday items like plastic water bottles and food cans. When we use these items, small amounts of BPA can get into our food or drink and then into our bodies. Once inside, BPA can act like the hormone estrogen, which is important for things like growth, repairing cells, developing babies in the womb, and our energy levels. Normally, our bodies can get rid of BPA quickly, but if we're exposed to it a lot, more can build up in our bodies and potentially mess with our normal hormone functions. Low levels of BPA in the body could mean that a person isn't being exposed to a lot of BPA in their environment, or that their body is good at getting rid of it.

Symptoms of Low Levels

Symptoms of low levels of Bisphenol A are not typically noticeable, as BPA is not a substance naturally produced or required by the body.

See References

Test for

Bisphenol A

Array 11

Cyrex Laboratories

Serum

The Chemical Immune Reactivity Screen (Array 11) measures immune response to chemicals bound to human proteins, unlike other tests that only identify chemical exposure. This measurement helps determine a person's health risk from chemical exposure.

Sex Steroid Metabolites + UDH II

ZRT Laboratory

Urine

The Sex Steroid Metabolites + UDH II profile, formerly the Advanced Metabolites Profile, provides a broad view of sex steroid hormone metabolite levels and cortisol metabolism. It includes full diurnal melatonin and BPA measurements.

Sex Steroid Metabolites

ZRT Laboratory

Urine

The Sex Steroid Metabolites profile provides a broad view of sex steroid hormone metabolite levels.

CONTENTS

What is it?

High Levels

Low Levels

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