The inclusion of a water bottle has become a mandatory thing to do for most gym enthusiasts who find this container to be essential for ensuring optimal hydration during exercise sessions. But have you ever wondered when the right time could be to find a replacement?
While plastic water bottles are often praised for their convenience, accessibility, and being inexpensive, having this as your long-term gym accessory is not necessarily in the best interest of your health.
Health Coach explains that the problem with plastic is that chemicals leach into foods and liquids. One of the reasons for this is that it contains a chemical called Bisphenol A (BPA).
This is why you should never heat food in plastic or leave plastic food or drink containers in the sun.
“Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical found in polycarbonates, the plastic used for baby bottles, sippy cups, sports water bottles, and canned food liners. BPA is a xenoestrogen, a chemical that mimics oestrogen in the body and disrupts hormone function. Xenoestrogens have been implicated in hormone and fertility issues, the early onset of puberty, hyperactivity, obesity, diabetes, immune dysfunction, and certain cancers,” explains the above-mentioned publication.
Furthermore, another material which does not contain BPA, but may be equally hazardous, is Polyethylene terephthalate, commonly known as PET. These are often used in the manufacturing of water bottles, soft drinks, and juice bottles.
Despite not containing BPA, “PET is a known hormone disruptor and has been linked to stomach ulcers, diarrhoea and vomiting due to its antimony content. When sat on a shelf for too long or exposed to heat or sunshine, containers made from PET can leach a toxic metalloid called antimony into the food or liquid. This metal is very toxic to the body,” explains Health Coach.
Meanwhile, there exists an abundance of healthy alternatives that may pose less of a risk to one’s well-being.
Two of the more common options include glass, aluminum, and stainless-steel containers.
- Glass – Bottle Pro reveals that not only has it been around longer than plastic, but it also has more of a natural feel to it. Additionally, it does not leave behind any residue as is the case with plastic.
- Stainless steel – This is quite popular and known to be a good insulator. Keeping your drinks both hot and cold.
Also see: Dangers of storing the following items in plastic containers
