Staying hydrated is essential, but a specialist has issued a warning about the potential dangers of drinking water from plastic bottles. Individuals are advised to inspect their plastic bottles before use.
The expert cautions that consuming water from plastic bottles that have been heated can lead to health issues such as nausea, headaches, and hormonal imbalances. The risk is particularly high when bottles are exposed to sunlight or stored in warm environments like cars.
Sarah Lawson, a food safety expert from Storage Box Shop, informed the ECHO that high temperatures can cause toxic substances to leach from plastic bottles into the water. She warns that chemicals such as BPA and phthalates, which can leach out, may cause gastrointestinal issues, headaches, dizziness, and hormonal disturbances that could worsen over time.
To minimize these risks, Lawson advises storing water bottles in cool places and avoiding direct sunlight exposure. For those frequently on the go, she recommends using a cooler with ice packs to keep the water at a safe temperature. Additionally, Lawson emphasizes the importance of checking the bottle’s temperature before drinking.
She emphasized: “Staying hydrated is vital, but it’s important to avoid drinking water that has been exposed to heat. To protect your health, make sure your bottled water stays cool.”