Over the past few years, awareness of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) has soared, and rightly so. These synthetic chemicals, often referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their longevity in the environment and human body, have been associated with a range of health problems, including obesity. As we continue to pursue healthier lives, knowing about PFAS and how to keep exposure at bay is important.

The Connection Between PFAS and Obesity

Research has revealed disturbing links between PFAS exposure and obesity. A study published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives found that higher levels of PFAS in the blood correlate with increased body mass index (BMI) and obesity rates in humans. The researchers concluded that these chemicals disrupt hormonal functions, leading to physical changes contributing to weight gain and making it harder to lose weight. 

PFAS Found in Everyday Items

PFAS can be found in a number of everyday products, making it challenging to avoid them completely. Here are some common household items that may contain high levels of PFAS:

Non-stick Cookware: Many non-stick pans and bakeware are coated with PFAS to enhance their non-stick properties.

Water-Resistant Fabrics: Products such as outdoor clothing, carpets, and upholstery are often treated with PFAS to repel water and stains.

Food Packaging: PFAS are added to fast food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, and pizza boxes to resist grease and oil.

Cosmetics: Certain cosmetic products, including foundation and mascara, may contain PFAS for water- and smudge-resistant benefits.

Cleaning Products: Some stain-resistant cleaners and waxes may also contain PFAS.

Reducing PFAS Exposure

While it may not be possible to eliminate PFAS exposure entirely, you can take steps to minimize it:

Use Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, or Ceramic Cookware: Opt for safer alternatives to non-stick cookware.

Be Wary of Food Wrappers: Limit consumption of fast food and packaged items that may contain PFAS.

Choose Unprocessed, Whole Foods: Focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains that are less likely to be packaged in PFAS-treated materials.

Check Your Cosmetics: Look for PFAS-free cosmetics and personal care products. Avoid ingredients like “PTFE” or “perfluoro.”

Use Natural Cleaning Products: Switch to organic cleaners that don’t contain harmful chemicals, including PFAS.

Use a Water Filter: Consider a water filter certified to remove PFAS or choose bottled water with assurances of purity.

Don’t Weight—Here’s How to Create a Healthy, PFAS-Free Diet

Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy diet while limiting PFAS exposure:

Eat Fresh: Concentrate on fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods are less likely to be packaged in PFAS-treated products.

Opt for Organic Whenever Possible: Organic products are less likely to be contaminated with harmful chemicals, including PFAS.

Audit Your Packaged Water: Choosing certified PFAS-free water like JUST Water is an easy way to eliminate exposure to PFAS found in many plastic packaged waters. While dropping plastic is a good rule of thumb, it’s important to check all the water you consume, as even glass bottles can contain microplastics that are harmful to health.

What Water Safety Means to JUST

At JUST Water, we hold ourselves to the highest standards, ensuring our quality assurance practices exceed the FDA’s PFAS recommendations, which are not currently mandated as legal requirements for packaged water. Our water undergoes extensive quality assurance testing to confirm that it is free from PFAS and other contaminants, providing you with peace of mind that you’re hydrating with a safe, clean, and pure source.

To learn more about our quality assurance practices, check out our report that breaks down the what, how, and why behind our production process. We believe in transparency above all else—if we wouldn’t drink it ourselves, we wouldn’t offer it to our customers.

Knowledge is power, health is everything, and the fight for safer water is a priority for everyone.