one more thing for you to worry about...

Linda Stahl in the C-J on chemicals leeching out of water bottles...Great!

The decision to use hard plastic water bottles just got more complicated.

Those ubiquitous bottles that exercisers take to the gym, teens pack in their backpacks and climbers carry on their outings might pose health risks, according to a recent study at the University of Cincinnati.

Hey Linda C., she said ubiquitous! ;-)

Whether your hard plastic water bottle is old or new, an ingredient in the plastic, called bisphenol A (BPA), leaches out into the water at room temperature, according to the new research.

Furthermore, if boiling water is poured into the bottle, the chemical leaches out as much as 55 times faster, according to a study led by Scott M. Belcher, a professor of pharmacology and cell biophysics at the University of Cincinnati.

The chemical BPA mimics estrogen, and in studies of wildlife, lab animals and cell cultures it has altered menstrual cycles, increased breast and prostate cancers and affected neuron function and brain development.

Government tests have found evidence of BPA in the urine of 93 percent of people studied -- subjects ranging from ages 6 to 85. However, children had the highest levels.

But scientists haven't done definitive studies of any impact of BPA in people, Belcher said....

His study, published in the Jan. 30 issue of the journal "Toxicology Letters," shows that heat -- not wear and tear on the bottle -- may pose the greatest threat of BPA seepage....

Currently, the Food and Drug Administration has seen no reason to ban or restrict its uses based on its review of studies done on animals.

BPA also lines cans of food, including baby formula, because it prevents corrosion and food contamination. It is also used in dental sealants and water pipes.