BPA exposure may have social effects: Study

Is BPA to blame for a lack of friends?

Researchers have linked the chemical bisphenol A (BPA) with a host of bad health problems, including reproductive and developmental effects – but it may affect social behavior as well.

In a new study, researchers at the University of Virginia and University of Missouri found that mice exposed to BPA weren’t as social as other mice.

The scientists injected a dose of BPA into maternal mouse plasma and evaluated their offspring’s behavior. The dose reflected the concentrations that can be found in the blood of most Americans.

Starting with the first generation of offspring – and lasting the next four generations of mice – the BPA-exposed mice weren’t interacting as much with their peers, didn’t want to spend as much time with adult males when they were juvenile males.

Since BPA is an endocrine-disrupting chemical, these results are to be expected, according to the researchers. The endocrine system regulates chemicals such as oxytocin, which helps us trust others. If that system is disrupted, social behavior may be affected.

More research is needed to see if human exposure to BPA produces similar outcomes, of course.

Source: Fast Company

Air purifiers to reduce chemical exposures

Our homes and offices can expose us to a wide range of chemicals and VOCs that are emitted by building materials, furnishings, household products and more sources.

An air purifier with many pounds of activated carbon can help reduce exposure to these chemicals, odors and gases.

AllerAir has developed powerful air purifiers for the home and office that feature a deep-bed activated carbon filter, a HEPA filter and optional UV germicidal filtration to remove gaseous pollutants as well as particles, dust, pathogens and more.

Contact AllerAir for more information and options.