With all of the hoopla about water bottles and plastic these days, taking a simple drink of water can be a bit intimidating.  If you use a water bottle for the gym or as a way to 'measure' how much water you are drinking through the course of the day, you probably have become hyper-aware of the possible health risks that your seemingly innocent water bottle may pose.  Certain types of plastics used in water bottles can leach into your water.  Basically, if you can taste plastic, you are drinking it...so it pays to get another bottle.  Here is a short breakdown of what to avoid:

• Dispose of the Disposable: Look at the recycling symbol on the bottom of the bottle. Disposable water bottles (your typical Poland Spring and Evian types) usually have a #1 in the center of the symbol, and are only recommended for one time use. The temptation to refill it can be overwhelming, but resist that urge.  Instead, look for a reusable option that you can purchase.
• BPA: Bottles with the #7 recycling symbol are considered hazardous, potentially leaching BPA (Bisphenol A).  This chemical is linked to breast cancer and uterine cancer in women, decreased testosterone levels in men, and are particularly devastating to babies and young children. BPA has even been linked to insulin resistance and Type 2 Diabetes. 

As technologies advance, it seems that somehow we take steps backwards, needing to right the 'toxic' wrongs that we have created.  Don't despair.  There are manufacturers who have already come up with safe solutions.  Here are a few:

• Camelbak: Plastic bottles, that don't contain the chemical BPA
• SIGG: A Swiss-Made, lightweight aluminum option.  The inner coating is non-toxic as well.  And if you have kids, try their kid-sized bottles and grip handle add-ons
• Nalgene HDPE:  In response to these recent concenrs, Nalgene has created a safer plastic option as well.
• Klean Kanteen: A Stainless steel option that does not leach toxic chemicals

Both SIGG and Klean Kanteen products can be purchased here.

Do you have a favorite water bottle that is safe?  Tell us!