Different water bottles may contain various chemicals, while some are completely chemical-free.
Chemicals are in most of our products, even the foods we eat. Though not all chemicals are harmful and toxic to the body, it's important to know the chemicals in the items you use daily to stay cautious and also to be aware of any allergy issues you may encounter. Plastic bottles contain chemicals which are not always harmful, though some may prefer to stay away from chemicals altogether, as some chemicals are still not thoroughly tested before sold in items.
Bisphenol A
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a controversial chemical found in many plastic and water bottles manufactured and sold in the United States today. This chemical is an organic compound used to shape the actual plastic water bottles. Though BPA was thought to be harmless, recently reports have found this chemical may interfere with the body's endocrine system and cause hormonal imbalance, as well as interrupting the reproductive system and its development. BPA has also been linked to breast and uterine cancer, as well as decreased testosterone levels.
DEHP and PET
Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is another chemical which may not be safe after reusing bottles and water bottles multiple times. DEHP is a common chemical found in polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles and products. DEHP may be linked to liver problems, reproductive issues and fetal development problems, as it is a potential carcinogen. PET plastic products contain water, juice and even soda on the market, and it is a polyester material most often used in creating fibers, which many scientists believe is not completely healthy for the human body. Reusing and rewashing plastic water bottles can cause the plastic to erode, releasing an increase of chemicals into your water over time, which can increase the potential safety risk when drinking from them. Be sure to wash bottles thoroughly in hot water before use, and if they are not meant for reuse, recycle them after the proper amount of usage.
Chemical-Free Bottles
An alternative to drinking from plastic bottles that may release harmful chemicals to your body is to purchase chemical-free and eco-friendly plastic bottles. These bottles may be available at department stores nationwide and from eco-friendly and "going green" websites.
