The chemical bisphenol A, or BPA, is everywhere—in certain plastics, in canned foods and even in receipt paper. So what? BPA mimics hormones, which can disrupt our endocrine systems. In women, exposure has been linked to breast cancer and reproductive disorders. And a new study found that the female offspring of pregnant mice exposed to BPA can have altered gene expression.
To avoid these complications, avoid plastic that has a 3, 6, or 7 on the bottom—or opt for glass containers. And when you touch a receipt, wash your hands! It’s a simple way to stay healthy—and you might just ward off an ugly cold while you’re at it!
MORE: 10 Sneaky Spots Teeming With Germs
