Is Plastic Making Us Fat?

Researchers think they may have found a link between chemicals used in plastic, toys and makeup and the rise in obesity in the U.S. In addition to diet and exercise, exposure to chemicals called obesogens – specifically during critical stages of development — may predispose us to being heavier and can make it harder to lose weight as adults.

Obesogens — like bisphenol-A (aka BPA) and phthalates — may also explain why we all know people who eat whatever they want and remain thin while others gain weight even if they watch their diets carefully.

Obesogens may also affect metabolism and how quickly hunger is satisfied.  Jerrold Heindel of National Institute of Environmental Sciences (NIEHS) says timing of exposure is an important factor. Research indicates that development stages –in utero and through puberty) is the most sensitive period.