We all love takeout—it’s quick, easy, and perfect for nights when cooking feels like too much work. But while we already know that takeout food can be high in calories, salt, and sugar, there’s a new health risk to worry about.
According to Parade, eating hot food from plastic containers could harm your heart health, even if you don’t microwave the plastic.
A recent study from China, highlighted by Parade, found that hot food in plastic containers might increase the risk of heart problems.
Researchers tested this by exposing rats to hot water in plastic takeout lids for different amounts of time.
The results showed that the rats had inflammation in their guts and damage to their heart muscles. They also had higher levels of a protein linked to heart disease.
While rats aren’t humans, the study also looked at surveys from over 3,000 people and found that those who often ate from plastic containers had higher rates of heart failure.
So, what does this mean for your favorite takeout meal? Parade explains that while more research is needed, it’s a good idea to avoid eating hot food directly from plastic containers.
The heat can cause chemicals from the plastic to mix with your food, which might not be great for your heart over time.
But don’t worry—you don’t have to give up takeout completely. Parade suggests a simple fix: transfer your food to a non-plastic plate or bowl before eating.
This small step can help reduce your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. Of course, it’s also important to focus on eating heart-healthy foods, exercising regularly, and following your doctor’s advice.
The takeaway? Enjoy your takeout, but take a minute to plate it properly.
As Parade points out, it’s an easy way to protect your heart while still treating yourself to a night off from cooking.
Credit: Parade