From eNewsletter 10/23 2024
DID YOU KNOW that environmental toxins called phenols have an adverse impact on the heart's electrical properties, according to a federally-funded study in Environmental Health?
Toxic phenols may include preservatives in packaged foods, parabens in shampoos, and bisphenol A (BPA) in plastic dishware.
The heart is driven by electrical activity, so anything affecting its electrical properties can have a detrimental impact and possibly result in arrhythmias.
Researchers found higher exposure to BPA, BPF and BPA+F in women is associated with a longer PR interval, a delay in the time it takes for electrical signals to move from the atria at the top of the heart to the ventricles.
In men, researchers found higher exposure to triclocarban, an antimicrobial agent, led to longer QT intervals in the heart, meaning the heart's electrical system is taking too long to recharge, a situation that can contribute to heart rhythm dysfunction.
Lest we think that toxin exposure is less of a priority, this study is a sobering reminder to sensibly lessen exposure without going overboard. For example, use stainless or glass instead of plastic whenever possible.
To read the rest of today's issue, please go to this page.
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