Recently a popular sports drink and its maker have been making national news for a food additive that may cause serious health side effects. This food additive, called brominated vegetable oil, sounds innocent enough and would often be overlooked by anyone reading the nutritional label on this drink. However, with a little research, one can see that this ingredient is not without controversy, not just in the U.S., but worldwide.
Brominated Vegetable Oil
Brominated vegetable oil (BVO) is used in citrus flavored soft drinks and sports drinks. What it does is helps the natural citrus flavors stay suspended in the drink itself. If it were not added, there would be distinct layers created within the drink from the fat-soluble citrus flavors. So why is BVO so controversial? It has to do with the bromine contents of the additive. Bromine is a substance found in flame retardants that are used in upholstered furniture, clothing, and electronics. Brominated substances are bioaccumulative, meaning that they continue to build up within our bodies as they are ingested including being found in breast milk. Serious side effects include neurological and thyroid impairments.
BVO Banned
BVO is banned in many major countries including European nations, Japan, and India. However, it is approved for use in the U.S. and has been added to soft drinks for years. In 1970, the FDA took brominated vegetable oil off its list of it list of substances that are “generally recognized as safe.” During the 70’s some additional testing was done with mixed results. In 1977, the FDA made a temporary decision to allow BVO to be used in soft drinks but in low dosages. However, all these years later, BVO remains legal to use as an additive.
The use of sports drinks and soft drinks are of a concern for a variety of reasons including BVO. As a chiropractor and a believer in natural forms of healthcare, it is best to stick to natural foods and drinks throughout the day. Chemicals and additives in food products and processed foods have the potential to create numerous negative health effects and consequences. If you would like more information on healthy eating, feel free to talk to Dr. Kmett today!
If you have more questions about commercial sports drinks, contact us at 301-624-0024 or sign-up at www.ValleyChiropracticRehab.com for a free consultation!
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4 S. McCain Dr., #8
Frederick, MD 21703
301-624-0024
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