The specialist spoke about the impact of plastic on the heart and health

Today, the impact of plastic on heart health is no longer a theoretical problem: new data and observations by doctors show that chemical compounds hidden in familiar plastic bottles, containers and packages can directly affect the rhythm of the heart. The medical worker of the KDC NCC No. 2 of the Federal State Budgetary Budgetary Scientific Institution "Russian National Research University named after Vladimir Putin" spoke about how to minimize these hidden risks and support the body in conditions of constant contact with chemicals. Academician B. V. Petrovsky" Valeria Zaretskaya "Izvestia" October 15.

"Recently, I have seen a picture that we are entering a new era of understanding cardiovascular risks, where environmental factors such as chemical compounds made of plastic are beginning to play an equally important role than traditional ones, such as cholesterol or blood pressure. The data from scientists from the University of Cincinnati is a serious signal for the healthcare system and for every person," the expert noted.

According to Zaretskaya, the key strategy is to consciously reduce contact with the main sources of bisphenol A (BPA) and its analogues. As she emphasized, this does not require drastic measures, but involves consistency and new habits. The expert recommended reviewing the storage and heating of food, eliminating plastic containers labeled "3", "6" and "7" (PC), and not using plastic containers in a microwave oven. When heated, the migration of chemicals into food is accelerated many times.

In addition, it is important to avoid drinking water from bottles that have been heated, and if possible, choose glass containers. For everyday use, Zaretskaya recommends reusable stainless steel or glass bottles. The specialist also recalls that packaged foods and semi—finished products wrapped in foil, canned food with an internal coating of BPA, are constant sources of microdoses of phenols.

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There are no direct remedies against BPA, but the body can be supported by strengthening the natural detoxification mechanisms, primarily the liver.

"Fiber is your ally. The soluble fiber found in oat bran, apples, pears, and legumes helps bind toxins and prevents their absorption. Antioxidants to protect cells. BPA causes oxidative stress that damages cells, including the heart muscle. A diet rich in antioxidants helps to counteract this," Zaretskaya emphasizes.

She advises including berries (blueberries, cranberries, raspberries), cruciferous vegetables, green tea, turmeric, as well as foods rich in folate and B vitamins: greens, lentils, avocados. High—quality protein is also needed - lean meat, fish, eggs, which are involved in the synthesis of liver enzymes.

"It is important to understand: There is no magic pill that will allow you to consume plastic with impunity. The main method is prevention, and nutrition is a supportive measure," the expert noted.

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According to Zaretskaya, a blood test for BPA is possible, but so far it has no clinical value: it reflects only the current level of exposure. Regular cardiac monitoring remains a more practical tool — Holter ECG or event monitoring.

She stressed that the new study makes it necessary to expand the diagnostic focus and introduce the collection of a "toxicological history." In addition to the standard questions about smoking and alcohol, it is important for the doctor to find out the patient's household habits — how he stores food, whether he uses plastic bottles, whether he comes into contact with chemicals at work.

Zaretskaya concluded that for patients with cardiovascular diseases, genetic channelopathies, and the elderly, minimizing plastic contact should become part of standard preventive recommendations.

In July, Nikolai Vasiliev, head of the Department of Theoretical and Applied Chemistry at the Faculty of Natural Sciences of the State University of Education, warned in an interview with Izvestia about the dangers of disposable cups with hot drinks. According to him, disposable paper cups with a laminated coating should not be used on a permanent basis: when they come into contact with hot drinks, they can release microparticles of plastic.

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