Food Choices and PFAS Levels in Pregnant Women

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in various industries since the 1940s. They are found in many products, including non-stick cookware, water-repellent clothing, and stain-resistant fabrics. Unfortunately, these chemicals can also be found in the environment and in the blood of humans, including pregnant women. This is concerning because PFAS have been linked to various health issues. The National Children's Study (NCS) Initial Vanguard pilot study (IVS) collected data from pregnant women in the United States. The study found that certain foods consumed by pregnant women were linked to higher levels of PFAS in their blood. The study looked at six types of PFAS: PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS, PFDA, and Me-PFOSA-AcOH. The study found that eating more shellfish and seafood was linked to higher levels of PFNA and PFDA in the blood. This is not surprising, as seafood can contain high levels of PFAS due to pollution in the water. However, it is important to note that seafood is also a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for a healthy pregnancy. Therefore, it is not recommended to avoid seafood altogether, but rather to choose seafood that is low in mercury and PFAS. The study also found that eating more potatoes, soft drinks, beef mixtures, bagels, English muffins, and cold cereals was linked to higher levels of PFHxS in the blood. This is concerning, as these are common foods in the American diet. However, it is important to note that the study did not prove that these foods caused higher levels of PFHxS, but rather that there was a link between them. The study also found that eating more sweet peppers, non-fried fish, and tofu was linked to lower levels of Me-PFOSA-AcOH in the blood. This is good news, as these are all healthy foods that are easy to incorporate into a balanced diet. The study also looked at dietary patterns and found that certain patterns were linked to higher levels of PFAS in the blood. This is important, as it shows that it is not just individual foods that matter, but also the overall diet. Therefore, it is important to focus on a balanced diet that includes a variety of healthy foods. It is important to note that the study did not prove that the foods caused the higher levels of PFAS in the blood. However, the links found in the study are concerning and warrant further investigation. Pregnant women should be aware of these links and try to make healthy food choices that are low in PFAS. They should also talk to their healthcare provider about any concerns they have.