Breaking the Plastic Curse: Natural Supplements for Better Metabolic Health

As a nutritional biochemistry scholar, my research on "Bisphenol-A and Phthalates: Public Health Threats, Metabolic Disruptions, and Nutraceutical-Based Mitigation Strategies" focused on the impact of two common chemicals: Bisphenol-A (BPA) and phthalates.

These chemicals are found in everyday plastic items, such as containers, kitchenware, and polythene bags. When plastics break down, they release BPA and phthalates, which can harm metabolic health.

My study explored the widespread presence of these chemicals and investigated how dietary changes and natural supplements can help mitigate their negative effects.

“The widespread use of plastics has raised concerns about the impact of these two common chemicals on public health, particularly regarding their effects on metabolic health and overall well-being.”

These chemicals have been linked to various metabolic disturbances, including obesity, insulin resistance, cardiovascular diseases, and endocrine disorders that have led to a range of serious health conditions such as; type 1 and type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, joint problems (e.g., osteoarthritis), sleep apnea, and certain types of cancer (e.g., breast, colon, kidney).

Furthermore, they can contribute to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), metabolic syndrome, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attack, stroke, atherosclerosis, and heart failure.

Additionally, these chemicals can disrupt endocrine function, leading to thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, hormonal imbalances affecting adrenal and pituitary function, and reproductive issues such as infertility and irregular periods.

On the positive side, nutraceuticals, or natural health supplements, may help protect against the metabolic problems caused by BPA and phthalates.

These natural health supplements include; antioxidants like vitamins E and C, and polyphenols found in berries, citrus fruits, leafy greens, and nuts, which scavenge reactive oxygen species and reduce oxidative stress. Omega-3 fatty acids from fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts lower inflammation and enhance insulin sensitivity.

Probiotics in yogurt, kefir, and fermented veggies support gut health and reduce inflammation, while prebiotics in asparagus, bananas, onions, and garlic feed good bacteria. A diet rich in fiber from whole grains, fruits, veggies, and legumes also supports gut health and reduces inflammation, ultimately helping to mitigate the negative effects of these chemicals.

These dietary changes can help mitigate the negative effects of long-term exposure to environmental contaminants like phthalates and BPA on public health.

Recognizing the significant role these chemicals play in the global burden of non-communicable diseases, governments worldwide are taking proactive steps to limit exposure by implementing policies to restrict BPA and phthalate use in food contact materials.

The European Union for instance has banned BPA in baby bottles and imposed restrictions on phthalates in toys and childcare products. The United States, Canada, and Australia have also taken measures, including restricting BPA use in certain products and establishing guidelines for safe exposure levels.

By introducing legislative actions such as these, countries can reduce exposure and promote safer alternatives, ultimately addressing the health impacts of plastic pollution.

By Professor Patrick Maduabuchi Aja, PhD, DAAD fellow

Director of Research, Innovation, Consultancy and Extension (RICE) KIU-Western Campus