Forever chemicals are named just that because they never fully break down in our environment. And unfortunately, they’re found in everyone’s bodies, from infants to ultra seniors. Scientists call them PFAS. They’re a group of chemicals that contain fluorine groups. They’re found in everything from non-stick cookware to fire-fighting foams. Basically, they have particular properties that make them non-stick, water-repellant and temperature-regulating properties.
The problem with PFAS is that their linked to certain cancers, including kidney and testicular cancers. And there’s ongoing research that may link them to many other cancers. In our bodies, their chemical structure makes them look a little bit like hormones. They can also cause hormonal disturbances, including infertility and thyroid disease. They’re also linked to developmental delays in children, and immunological issues. And we don’t know what else they may be putting us at risk for.
How do these chemicals get into our bodies? Water is one of the major sources of contamination. Food packaging is also an issue. And fresh food may be contaminated asPFAS are in a lot of pesticides that are sprayed on our food. The most heavily contaminated foods are apples, corn, kale, spinach, strawberries and wheat. Add cosmetics, clothing and household furnishings and you can start to see that they’re nearly everywhere. 
To avoid exposure to PFAS, try to avoid plastics. Instead of a plastic water bottle, use a glass or metal one. Read ingredients lists and avoid anything with the word “fluoryl”. Avoid plastic packaging where possible. Carbon filters are helpful for drinking and cooking water, but reverse osmosis is the only treatment that actually removes at PFAS. Just remember to change the filters on a regular basis.
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