PFAS: health risks, healthy swaps, and understanding why it matters
PFAS (pronounced “PEE-fass”) are man-made chemicals used to make things nonstick, waterproof, and stain-resistant. They also stick around in the environment—and in us—longer than that one Tupperware lid with no matching container.
What are PFAS, exactly?
PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances—a big family of chemicals used since the 1950s in things like:
Nonstick pans
Stain-proof couches and carpets
Waterproof jackets
Food wrappers (grease-resistant)
Some cosmetics and dental floss
Firefighting foams
They’re nicknamed “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down easily. Imagine glitter at a kid’s birthday party… but invisible and way less fun.
How do they get into us?
Water: PFAS can seep into drinking water: don’t believe me? https://www.ewg.org/tapwater/system.php?pws=CO0121475 Here is a link to see the contaminants detected where I live in Monument, Colorado. Type in your city! 159x the amount of arsenic recommended as safe by the Environmental Working Group here...
Food: Grease-resistant packaging can transfer PFAS to food (hello, takeout fries).
House dust: Treated carpets and fabrics can shed PFAS-coated dust.
Skin & mouth: Certain cosmetics and floss may contain PFAS.
What do PFAS do in the body?
Here’s the bite-size biology (no degree required):
They hitch a ride on proteins. PFAS like to bind to proteins in your blood (such as albumin), which helps them travel around the body and hang out longer than invited.
They stress your mitochondria. Mitochondria are your cells’ power plants. PFAS can disrupt how these tiny engines make energy, increasing oxidative stress (cellular “rust”).
They nudge hormone signals. PFAS can interfere with thyroid (T4) and sex hormones and may activate certain cell receptors (think of them as “on/off” switches), which can throw off metabolism and fat processing.
They poke the immune system. Some PFAS exposures are linked to weaker vaccine responses and more frequent infections—like your immune system hitting the snooze button.
They bug the liver. Your liver does cleanup duty. PFAS can raise liver enzymes and affect cholesterol handling.
Why is that dangerous?
Because tiny cell problems can snowball into bigger issues over time. Research links PFAS exposure to:
Changes in cholesterol and liver enzymes: causing an array of greater health complications and diseases
Thyroid imbalance and decrease metabolic function
Immune changes: slowing the bodies natural alert system and decrease healing
*Fertility challenges and pregnancy complications*
They act like hormone interrupters
PFAS can nudge the body’s hormone signals (thyroid and sex hormones) and activate PPAR “gene switches” that control metabolism and inflammation. That hormone noise matters for ovulation, implantation, sperm production, and pregnancy. Reviews and meta-analyses show PFAS are linked with changes in reproductive hormones.
Women: effects on cycles, ovarian markers, and time to pregnancy
Human studies report associations between higher PFAS levels and irregular/longer cycles, lower estradiol/progesterone, and signs of lower ovarian reserve (e.g., AMH) in some groups—plus longer time to pregnancy in several cohorts. Not every study agrees, but the trend is concerning.
Men: effects on semen quality
Emerging research (including 2024–2025 studies) finds PFAS measured in semen and blood associated with lower sperm concentration/motility and markers of oxidative stress in semen. Results vary by which PFAS and dose, but the signal is there.
Pregnancy outcomes
Authoritative health agencies note links between PFAS and reproductive risks, including decreased fertility, high blood pressure in pregnancy, and lower birth weight. Some studies suggest risks may be worse when folate status is low
No, this doesn’t mean every PFAS exposure causes disease. It means lowering exposure is a smart long-term health move—like flossing, but for your cells.
How to lower your PFAS exposure (without moving to Mars)
Water first
Use a certified filter. Look for filters tested for PFAS reduction (granular activated carbon or reverse osmosis are top choices). If you can’t filter whole-house, at least filter drinking and cooking water.
In the kitchen
Choose stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic instead of nonstick pans labeled PTFE/PFOA.
Skip grease-proof wrappers when possible. Plate it at home or use your own container.
Avoid microwaving food in the bag, especially popcorn bags with grease barriers
At home
Be picky about “stain-proof” sprays and treatments for carpets, sofas, and clothing.
Vacuum with a HEPA filter and dust with a damp cloth (PFAS can ride indoor dust).
Check products (makeup, floss, outdoor gear) for “fluoro-,” “PTFE,” or “perfluoro” on labels.
On the go
Bring a reusable water bottle and food container. Your fries will forgive you… eventually.
Fast facts (myth vs. truth)
“If I can’t taste it, it’s fine.”
Not how chemistry works. Many exposures are tiny but consistent over time.“I have to throw out everything I own.”
Nope. Start with water and cookware, then upgrade slowly— 1% healthier! Each time you finish a product, look for a healthier swap.“Only industrial towns have PFAS.”
PFAS have been found in many places. Filters + smarter shopping = practical protection.
Shopping cheat sheet
When possible, look for labels that say:
“PFAS-free” or “no fluorinated chemicals”
“PTFE-free nonstick” (for cookware)
“Tested to reduce PFAS” (for filters)
How we can help (at our clinic)
Talk through practical swaps that fit your lifestyle and budget.
Support your detox pathways the safe, natural way: fiber-rich foods, hydration, sweat (sauna & movement), and targeted nutrients when appropriate. Assisted lymphatic therapy in office with our specialist, Susan Clayton LMT
If needed, discuss lab options and personalized strategies with our functional medicine providers.
Bottom line: You don’t have to panic, you just have to pivot. Small, steady changes reduce your PFAS load and help your cells do what they do best—keep you thriving.
