Your plastic habit could be killing you

You’ve probably heard that plastics are bad for the planet. But new research suggests they’re also bad for your heart. 

According to a study led by researchers including Dr Leonardo Trasande at NYU Langone, a chemical commonly found in plastics (di-2-ethylhexylphthalate (DEHP)) may be responsible for a staggering 356 000 cardiovascular deaths globally in just one year.

Let’s put that into perspective: That’s over 10 million years of life lost in 2018 alone, thanks to DEHP.

The plastic, heart disease connection

DEHP is one of the most widely used phthalates, chemicals added to plastics to make them flexible and durable. You’ll find it in everything from food packaging to shower curtains to medical IV tubing.

The catch? Phthalates are hormone disruptors. They’ve been linked to:

• Oxidative stress (the kind that damages your cells)
• Metabolic disorders (think obesity and type 2 diabetes)
• And now, cardiovascular disease (heart attacks, strokes, and more)

Using data from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), the researchers estimated that 13.5% of all CVD deaths in people aged 55–64 were due to DEHP. That number jumped to over 16% in parts of South Asia and the Middle East, regions hit hardest by plastic-related cardiovascular mortality.

In total, more than 349 000 deaths were directly linked to plastics. So yes, your daily dose of plastic could be a silent contributor to heart disease.

So what can you do about it?

It’s easy to feel helpless in the face of global data, but small changes in your daily routine can significantly reduce your DEHP exposure. Here’s how to phthalate-proof your life:

Ditch plastic food containers

Especially for hot food. In fact, you shouldn’t even microwave food in plastic. Heating releases more phthalates. Use glass or stainless steel (obviously don’t through steel in the microwave) instead.

Avoid plastic-wrapped produce

Opt for fresh, unpackaged fruit and vegetables where possible, or buy from local markets. Phthalates can leach from packaging into food.

Check your personal care products

Phthalates often hide in fragrance. Look for “phthalate-free” labels on shampoos, lotions, and deodorants.

Say no to vinyl

Vinyl flooring, shower curtains, and kids’ toys are often loaded with DEHP. Choose PVC-free or phthalate-free alternatives.

Ask questions at the doctor’s office

Medical devices, especially IV bags and tubing, can be major DEHP culprits. If you’re in hospital for a procedure, ask about phthalate-free equipment (especially if you’re pregnant or immunocompromised).

Cut down on processed and fast food

These are often stored or prepared in plastic-heavy environments, leading to higher phthalate levels in your system.