Action item at the end:

“Avoid plastics as much as you can. Reducing your use of ultraprocessed foods can reduce the levels of the chemical exposures you come in contact with,” Trasande said. “Never put plastic containers in the microwave or dishwasher, where the heat can break down the linings so they might be absorbed more readily.”

Here are other tips to reduce exposure:

· Use unscented lotions and laundry detergents.

· Use cleaning supplies without scents.

· Use glass, stainless steel, ceramic or wood to hold and store foods.

· Buy fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables instead of canned and processed versions.

· Encourage frequent handwashing to remove chemicals from hands.

· Avoid air fresheners and all plastics labeled as No. 3, No. 6 and No. 7.

  • AA5B@lemmy.world
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    2 days ago

    While it’s inescapable, that’s not a reason to give up hope. We’ve been mostly fine so far with some plastic, but like everything else it’s the lack of moderation that will kill us. Think of it more as an exposure level, and yes you can make a difference in your life.

    I believe I’ve made a difference over the last few years

    • replace teflon pans with cast iron and stainless steel
    • replace worn plastic food storage with glass
    • replace worn plastic cutting boards with bamboo
    • replace plastic utensils with silicone or stainless steel
    • replace plastic water bottles with stainless steel
    • go back to cotton for some clothing
    • greatly reduce ultraprocessed food - do more of my own cooking
    • currently getting wet because I need a new rain jacket but have been looking for one without PFOA or similar

    It’s only a start, but it’s under my control, does make a difference, and doesn’t really cost much money or inconvenience. It was many small changes over years, a lot of it timed for when I needed to replace stuff anyway. If everyone did this, we’d make even bigger differences by cutting back contamination from manufacturing so much

    For example chicken tenderloins are similar convenience to chicken strips, but they’re just chicken

    • relative@lemmy.world
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      1 day ago

      For rain jackets, I’ve been looking at replacements that you periodically treat with wax