A new study conducted by researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center in New York has concluded that a duo of chemicals found in plastics widely used by society pose health risks, according to a Pioneer News report.  The chemicals’ scientific acronyms DINP and DIDP respectively known as di-isononyl and di-isodecyl, were previously regarded as safer alternatives to DEHP, or a dangerous phtalate, which has been linked to hypertension.

However, the new study analyzed urine samples from more than 1,300 adolescents between the ages of 8 and 19 and determined that DINP and DIDP affect blood pressure.

A second study was also administered with 365 teens and discovered a relationship between the chemicals’ levels and the incidence of insulin resistance. In other words, the “safer” packaging contributes to not only hypertension but to diabetes as well.

The study suggests plastic replacements such as wax paper or aluminum foil and fresh food intake that is not canned or wrapped in plastic, which would reduce phthalate metabolites significantly.

Also, Dr. Leonardo Trasande MD MPP, the report’s lead examiner, adds, “Our research adds to growing concerns that environmental chemicals might be independent contributors to insulin resistance, elevated blood pressure and other metabolic disorders.” New York University’s associate professor of pediatrics, environmental medicine, and population health also notes that other studies corroborate these findings and that generally speaking chemicals should not be used in packaging.