Scientists urge pregnant women to avoid drinking water from plastic bottles
Experts have recommended drinking out of glass or metal bottles due to growing fears that tiny plastic particles may wreak havoc on our health.
Dr Luisa Campagnolo, an expert in histology and embryology at the University of Rome Tor Vergata, warned there is mounting evidence that micro and nano-plastics are ending up in human tissue.
Previous studies have shown microscopic particles – a byproduct of the degradation of plastic – can end up in the human bloodstream and even the placenta.
But a new study in rats, presented at the American Association for the Advancement of Science’s annual conference, shows ingested plastics can end up in the organs of the foetus itself.
‘There are indications that most likely the foetus is a target for plastic particles, because the placenta is,’ Dr Campagnolo, who was not involved in the study, said.
And while research into the effect of plastic particles on human health is in its infancy, and it is important not to jump to conclusions about the potential dangers, there are simple steps we can all take to protect our health, Dr Campagnolo said.
Disposable plastic bottles can release debris, particularly when exposed to sunlight, which we then drink.
Dr Campagnolo said: ‘It’s probably less handy but we should not drink bottled water in plastic bottles.
‘We don’t have to freak out if we sit on a plastic chair, but I think we should avoid whatever is disposable, whatever is in contact with food, such as using plastic containers in the microwave oven. We should go back to glass.
‘Disposable plastic took over probably 30 to 40 years ago but we can rethink this approach.’