That Plastic Container Could Be Breaking Your Heart—Literally

A groundbreaking study published today in the journal eBioMedicine reveals that chemicals called phthalates may contribute to more than 10% of all global heart disease deaths among adults aged 55-64.

The research, led by Dr. Leonardo Trasande from NYU's Grossman School of Medicine, examined how these "everywhere chemicals" impact our cardiovascular health.

Yes, they're called "everywhere chemicals" because they're, well... everywhere. Cue existential sigh.

🧪 The Science

What are they?

Phthalates (pronounced "thal-ates" — go ahead, try saying that five times fast) are synthetic chemicals added to countless products to make plastics more flexible and durable.

Where are they?

They're found in food containers, shampoo, makeup, perfume, children's toys, PVC pipes, vinyl flooring, and many other everyday items. Basically, look around your home right now—they're probably within arm's reach.

How dangerous?

Researchers analyzed data from 200 countries and found these chemicals contributed to approximately 368,764 heart-related deaths globally in 2018 alone. That's roughly the population of Iceland, but with worse consequences.

Why dangerous?

Phthalates cause inflammation in coronary arteries, accelerating existing heart disease and potentially triggering fatal events. Not exactly what you signed up for when buying that cute meal prep container, huh?

🧠 Why This Matters

Beyond heart disease, phthalates have previously been linked to hormonal disruption, fertility issues, allergies, asthma, obesity, and type 2 diabetes.

What's most concerning is how ubiquitous these chemicals are—they're called "everywhere chemicals" for good reason.

It's like that friend who shows up to every gathering uninvited, except this friend might be messing with your hormones.

👍 What You Can Do Today

IN YOUR KITCHEN:

• Store food in glass, ceramic, or metal containers instead of plastic. Your future self will thank you.

• Never microwave food in plastic containers or put them in the dishwasher. That "microwave-safe" label? It just means the container won't melt.

• Reduce ultra-processed foods to lower your overall chemical exposure. Fresh food doesn't come wrapped in layers of plastic.

IN YOUR BATHROOM:

• Look for "phthalate-free" personal care products and children's toys. Your endocrine system deserves that extra 10 seconds of label-reading.

• Opt for unscented products when possible. Sometimes smelling like nothing is better than chemicals.

🎯 TL;DR

• The Risk: These chemicals hide in everyday plastics and contribute to 10% of heart disease deaths in adults 55-64.

• The Fix: Use glass instead of plastic, never microwave plastic, and check labels for "phthalate-free" products.

• The Reality: Small swaps add up. Each change reduces your chemical exposure and protects your health.

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Next week: The sneaky toxins hiding in your morning routine – and what to swap instead.

Spoiler: Your shower curtain might be plotting against you.

To a happier and healthier life,

The No Toxins Please Team

Sources: eBioMedicine, The Lancet, April 29, 2025

CNN Health, April 29, 2025

NYU Langone Health News, April 29, 2025

US News & World Report, April 29, 2025

Washington Post, April 29, 2025