Columnist Dr. Monica Ennis

INTRODUCTION

This will be the last article on the Cancer Update Series. This article will cover the association between cancer and microwave ovens, plastic containers, plastic wrap, paper containers, and foam containers. Some of this research information has been in print by other research institutions. However, many of these unhealthy practices continue and it is those constant reminders that encourage the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

Recently, Dr. Edward Fujimoto, Wellness Program Manager at Castle Hospital, was on a TV program explaining the health hazards that can be caused by the chemical dioxin. He said, "Dioxins are highly poisonous to body cells. Do not freeze your plastic bottles with water in them as this releases dioxins from the plastic." Dr. Fujimoto went on to explain how bad dioxins are for the body and that this chemical causes cancer, especially breast cancer. Dr. Fujimoto discussed the use of plastics when heating food in the microwave oven. He said, "Do not heat food in the microwave using plastic containers. This especially applies to foods that contain fat." Dr. Fujimoto explained that the combination of fat, high heat, and plastics releases dioxin into the food and ultimately into the cells of the body by consuming the food. He suggested that this is the reason some restaurants stopped using foam containers. Dr. Fujimoto also pointed out that when Saran wrap is used to cover food, before it is nuked, the heat causes the poisonous toxins to melt out of the plastic wrap and drip into the food.

Dr. Fujimoto recommended that tempered glass, Corning Ware, ceramic containers, or Pyrex be used to heat food in the microwave. He also pointed out that it is safer to cover food with a paper towel and such foods as TV dinners, instant ramen, soups, etc., should be heated in safer containers. He noted that the same results can be achieved but without the poisons getting into the food.