Why we use glass...
…Because plastic is bad for you! I was worried about approaching this topic, because I knew once I got started on plastic, that this post could quickly enter TLDR territory. I’ll try to keep it concise and encourage you all to do your own research and consider reducing your plastic use for you and your family’s health and for the sake of the earth. Our family has worked hard to be as plastic-free as possible in every way we can, and the reason is multifaceted. Today, we will focus on two of them: Chemical exposure and Microplastic contamination. Plastic leaches toxic chemicals that affect your entire body, including your immune system, endocrine system, organ function, nervous system, reproductive system, and more. These chemicals cause cancer, infertility, and chronic inflammation. They cause catastrophic DNA damage, which leads to chronic health conditions and severe birth defects. They impact your respiratory and digestive systems and also contribute to diabetes. The last huge one I’ll touch on is your hormones - these chemicals cause extensive hormone disruption, which, of course, leads to a whole host of chronic health conditions and cancers. And lastly, plastic continually sheds microplastic particles that are filling the earth and our bodies. This consumption and inhalation lead to an even more direct absorption of all the toxic chemicals. All of these toxic effects are magnified in children and those with sensitive bodies or compromised health. Plastic is so pervasive that it’s impossible to avoid entirely, and there are some places where I feel plastic does have a place and its use is justified, so I’m not suggesting losing your sanity trying to escape plastic, but I am saying avoid it when possible and take steps to reduce your exposure. Your body will thank you.
There is a really well-done report on plastic pollution and health that you can read here and I encourage everyone to take a look: https://www.ciel.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Plastic-and-Health-The-Hidden-Costs-of-a-Plastic-Planet-February-2019.pdf