According to Healthy Holistic Living, your health can be compromised when you choose to buy water, bottled in some types of plastic recipients, especially if you want to reuse them.

Many people have never heard of the signs, symbols, and markings that on the bottom or the back of plastic bottles while others simply ignore them. Experts say it is important to know what each such sign actually means. That’s because any plastic contains chemicals that can cause various problems for the human body, some of them really serious.

Here’s what each symbol or marking on the back of a plastic bottle means and why you need to pay attention:

PET or PETE

PET is one of the most commonly used plastics in consumer products and is largely used for plastic bottles containing bottled water. This package is intended for disposable containers. Repeated use increases the risk of development of bacteria. These bottles can release heavy metals and chemicals that affect the hormonal balance. PET plastics are difficult to decontaminate, and proper cleaning requires harmful chemicals.

HDP or HDPE

HDPE is used to make rigid plastic milk cartons, detergent and oil bottles, toys, and some plastic bags. This type of solid plastic contains no chemicals. Experts advise choosing these bottles when you buy bottled water because they are probably the safest and thus contain the cleanest water you can find in the market.

PVC or 3V

PVC is a soft and flexible plastic, used in transparent food packaging. It can be found in oil bottles, teeth rings, and toys for children. This type of plastic releases toxic chemicals that affect two hormones in your body. Experts recommend as much as possible to avoid buying a product packaged in such kind of plastic.

LDPE

This should not be used in the production of plastic bottles though it does not release chemicals into water. However, it is not a good idea to buy a product packaged or containing such type of plastic because it contains dangerous chemicals that may contaminate the products.

PP

It’s a different type of plastic white or semi-transparent, merely used for packaging of yogurts and syrups. This kind of plastic has excellent qualities that can withstand rapid temperature changes. When heated, it does not melt. It is relatively safe. It also serves as a good barrier against moisture, grease, and chemicals.