+ health
Microwaving plastic containers
When you microwave food in plastic, you can sometimes smell or taste the plastic. You may wonder if the plastic melted into your food.
Substances used in the plastic can leach into your food when you heat it in a plastic container or Styrofoam, says John Doull, retired professor of pharmacology, toxicology and therapeutics. However, it doesn't mean you will get sick from it. Doull says the amount of plastic substances released is far less than what's considered harmful. He says scientists don't have concrete evidence that microwaving food in plastic can hurt your body, even in Styrofoam and containers that are not labeled "microwave-safe."
Photo Illustration by Sachiko Miyokawa
When you heat food in a plastic container, however, check the label to see if it's microwave-safe. If you're not sure, use a plate. The container can melt and
Melting pot: Using the microwave to heat up leftover food in plastic containers or Styrofoam is harmless to your health.
potentially burn you. Food should taste better, too, without a plastic flavor.
VERDICT: GOOD FOR YOU
Deodorants and antiperspirants
Deodorants and antiperspirants get rid of that heinous smell, but some medical professionals are questioning whether the aluminum compounds found in antiperspirants may be linked to serious health risks.
The National Cancer Institute did find some research suggesting that the aluminum compounds may be absorbed by the skin in the armpit and cause estrogen-like effects. Estrogen promotes the growth of breast cancer cells and that is why some professionals believe this aluminum compound may be causing cancer. However, the researchers are not aware of any conclusive evidence linking the products' use and breast cancer.
The FDA also does not have any evidence or research data that suggests ingredients in underarm antiperspirants or deodorants cause cancer. So though the topic may be a hot debate among medical professionals, not much evidence supports the claim that certain deodorants or antiperspirants cause cancer.
"Honestly, it's not even anything that is on the radar screen at this year's American Academy of Dermatology Meeting," says Barbara Delcore, nurse practitioner with
Photo Illustration by Megan Weltner
Take a whiff the rumor that deodorants and antiperspirants can cause cancer is unsubstantiated.
Kansas City Skin & Cancer Center in Kansas City, Kansas."I would say there is no definitive literature to support or refute."
VERDICT: GOOD FOR YOU—NOW
— Megan Weltner
14
March 5,2009