Straws are ubiquitous. They are a common sight in restaurants, fast food joints, and coffee shops. They are so commonly used that you may not even think twice before accepting one.

However, it’s time to start asking: Is your straw habit harming your health?.

1. Straws Contribute to Plastic Pollution

Most straws are made of plastic, which is not biodegradable. This means that once they end up in landfills or oceans, they will persist for hundreds of years. The United States alone uses about 500 million straws every day.

That’s a staggering number that is causing serious environmental problems. Plastic pollution is harming marine life, polluting oceans, and contaminating the food chain.

2. Plastic Straws Leach Chemicals into Your Drink

Plastic straws are not only bad for the environment, they are also bad for your health. When plastic straws come into contact with hot liquids, they can leach harmful chemicals into your drink.

One of the main chemicals that is released is Bisphenol A (BPA), which is a synthetic estrogen that has been linked to cancer, diabetes, and other health problems.

3. Straws Contribute to Dental Problems

Using straws on a regular basis can cause dental problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease.

Sucking liquid through a straw causes the liquid to bypass your teeth, which means that the liquid is in contact with your teeth for a shorter period of time. This can lead to a decrease in saliva production, which is important for neutralizing bacteria and protecting your teeth from decay.

4. Straws are an Unnecessary Expense

Straws are an unnecessary expense that can add up over time. Most restaurants and fast food joints provide straws for free, but some coffee shops and juice bars charge an extra fee for them.

If you stop using straws, you may be able to save a few dollars here and there.

5. Straws are an Eye-Opening Lesson in Convenience Culture

Finally, the overreliance on straws is a lesson in convenience culture. We’ve become so used to having everything handed to us on a platter that we don’t even think twice before accepting a plastic straw.

But it’s time to start questioning our habits and considering the impact they have on our health and the environment.

The Bottom Line

The next time you’re offered a straw, think twice before accepting it. If you can, try to avoid using straws altogether. If you must use a straw, opt for a reusable one made of metal or glass.

These straws are not only better for the environment but also better for your health. By making a small change in your habits, you can contribute to a healthier planet and a healthier you.