WHAT ON EARTH ARE "FOREVER CHEMICALS!?"
PFAS stands for “per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances”. They are synthetic compounds used to make coatings and products that resist heat, oil, stains, grease, and water. They can be found in many types of products:
- Non-stick cookware, often in the form of Teflon
- Non-stick food wrappers (fast food), microwave popcorn bags
- Stain resistant furniture
- Flame resistant clothing
PFAS and PTFE chemicals can also be found in personal care products such as lotions, cosmetics, sunscreen, shaving cream, etc. They often get added to create a smooth, shiny texture on the skin.
WHAT IS THE PROBLEM WITH “FOREVER CHEMICALS?”
They have earned their nick name!
- They do not break down in the environment.
- They can move through soils and contaminate drinking water
- They can build up (bioaccumulate) in our bodies!
WHAT PROBLEMS CAN THEY CAUSE?
Studies show that the buildup of these chemicals in our bodies can cause:
- Hormone disruption including Infertility
- Thyroid disfunction
- Immune system issues
- Liver damage
- Various forms of cancer (Kidney, prostate, etc)
According to the CDC, fluorinated chemicals contaminate the bodies of nearly all Americans. They have determined that there is NO safe level for what our bodies are able to handle! Honestly, it makes me wonder if “forever chemicals” could have played a role in my autoimmune disease, infertility, hormone issues, etc.
WHAT CAN WE DO?
- My home has been Teflon-free since introducing pet parrots to our family. Perhaps a blessing in disguise, I learned that parrots’ respiratory systems are incredibly sensitive and the chemicals from non-stick cookware is immediately toxic to them. I quickly got rid of my cookware and now cook almost exclusively on stainless steel.
- I have replaced all of my personal care products (shampoo, shower gel, lotions, etc) as well as cosmetics with plant based products that are infused with pure essential oils. When I got tired of reading labels on *every single product*, I found a company whose ingredients I trust!
- I don’t happen to eat fast food or microwave popcorn. However, while down the rabbit hole of research, I realized that parchment paper also contains the same chemical treatment! I cook a lot on parchment paper…because I don’t want to be baking on non-stick cookie sheets! Sheesh…what’s a crunchy mom to do? I tried the “unbleached and certified compostable” parchment paper. Guess what…? It sticks! LOL! I guess that is a good sign that it isn’t treated with forever chemicals and I’ll just have to deal with it!
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