Researches discovered that bisphenol-A (BPA) exposure is actually capable to cause gene changes.
These effects are noticed in a part of the brain called the amygdala, which can produce an increase levels of axiety.
BPA and Genetic Changes
For this research, rats were divided into four groups:
- Group I was fed only with soy
- Group II was fed a soy-free diet
- Group III was fed only soy and exposed to BPA
- Group IV was fed a soy-free diet and exposed to BPA
The results were:
Rats exposed to BPA were given low doses during gestation, lactation and during puberty. When blood tests were done, the rats dosed with BPA showed levels comparable to those found in humans. The same was true when rats were fed a soy diet, which showed comparable levels of Genistein: an estrogen-mimicking chemical.
Group IV was fed with no soy but at the same time exposed to BPA. They showed markedly higher levels of anxiety than the other groups. Their genes changed specifically in the amygdala (a region of the brain that deals with fear and stress). The affected genes both deal with the process of releasing oxytocin, a hormone and neurotransmitter used to control social behavior. Researchers hence believe that the increased anxiety must be caused by BPA's ability to change the oxycotin signaling pathway.
Study believes an early exposure to Bisphenol type A (BPA), a component of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, can change socio-sexual behavior in different species, even humans.
Where can you find BPA:
- Food containers (disposable and reusable)
- Epoxy resins
- Water bottles (and other plastics)
- Canned food
- Paper money
Additionally, BPA (and its close cousin, BPS chemical) can give the following problems and conditions:
- Breast cancer
- Obesity
- Fertility problems
- Feminization of boys
- Accelerated maturation in girls
- Diabetes
- Depression and hyperactivity
It would be better to try any method possible to mitigate the estrogenic effects of BPA.