Jasmine Rodgers  |  Contributing Writer

Bisphenol A-free plastic bottles are good alternatives because the chemical is toxic, scientists say, and there are alternatives.

If you take water to class with you in a plastic bottle, keep reading. While it’s good that you’ll be able to stay hydrated during the day, it’s not good your bottle is made with BPA, which might be leaching into your water.

In recent years, scientific studies have shown the harmful effects BPA can have on the endocrine system (hormones), even cancer. According to an article on WebMD.com, “The Facts About Bisphenol A,” it’s a chemical used to harden plastic. The article says the toxin is in “medical devices, compact discs, dental sealants, water bottles, the lining of canned foods and drinks” and more.

Essentially, BPA is in almost everything people use daily. There have not been any conclusive findings in human or animal trials that it directly causes cancer or other health problems, but there are correlations between the chemical and physical difficulties. In a study reported on Independent.co.uk, low doses of BPA were given to female rats, and it was concluded that the exposure caused changes in the brain structure of offspring. Although scientists disagree over whether these findings can be applied to humans or not, the study itself still stands as some evidence that even a small dose of BPA causes problems with reproductive health, if only in mice.

So, what are some alternatives? Let’s call them the classics. These include glass and stainless steel. While made of more “industrial” materials, they have been used for decades without any major health risks. Both are easy to clean, reuse and make look stylish.

The next time you’re looking for a water bottle, go the extra mile and make sure it’s BPA-free, stainless steel or glass. Even if a little Bisphenol A exposure isn’t so bad for you, why take the risk and find out? Hydrate safely.