New Study Explains How BPA May Cause Diabetes and Weight Gain

New research indicates that bisphenol-A, or BPA, may be responsible for the increasing rates of obesity and diabetes in the developed world. Past studies have linked the chemical to obesity and diabetes (as well as a greater risk of cancer, heart disease, and behavioral problems in young children), but now findings published in the journal PLoS ONE show how even miniscule amounts of BPA can trick the body into making more fat.

BPA, masquerading as the hormone and insulin regulator estrogen, fools specific receptors in the body and triggers the release of more insulin than is actually needed to metabolize food. The resulting high levels of insulin can then cause weight gain and Type 2 diabetes.

Even prior to this research, BPA was a highly controversial chemical and has even been banned in Canada. In the United States, its use has been widespread in plastics, resins, the lining of food cans, and other consumer products since the 1960s.

“EMSL Analytical tests for BPA and other chemicals in a variety of consumer products, such as plastics, coatings, tableware, fluids, and food,” states Shannon Kauffman, Laboratory Supervisor at EMSL. “If needed, we can perform customized testing services for our clients as well.”

For more information on EMSL’s testing services, please contact EMSL at (800) 220-3675, visit www.EMSL.com, or email info@EMSL.com.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical, Inc. is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of consumer product, environmental, industrial hygiene, food, and materials testing services to professionals and the general public. In addition, the company offers a large variety of air sampling equipment, sampling cassettes, and monitoring equipment. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations, as well as state and federal regulating bodies. They include, but are not limited to AIHA IHLAP, AIHA EMLAP, AIHA ELLAP, A2LA, NVLAP, CDC Elite, CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission), CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX Department of State Health Services, and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website for a complete listing of accreditations.