(NaturalHealth365)  Hidden within the products we trust and use daily lurk silent threats: the pervasive per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).  These insidious chemicals, embedded in everything from our clothes and cosmetics to nonstick pans, have silently infiltrated our lives since the 1940s.

However, the stakes are alarmingly higher for teenagers on the cusp of adulthood.  A new study from Science Direct unveils a startling connection: PFAS exposure might be reshaping the bone strength of our youth.

The time has come for a new approach to consumer goods manufacturing

Consumer advocates are calling for eliminating PFAS in consumer goods production for good reason.  The multi-cohort study referenced above shows exposure to PFAS alters bone mineral density in kids, teens, and even young adults.

The use of perfluoroalkyl substances in consumer products is also tied to reduced bone mineral density rates in adolescents of Latino heritage.  Moreover, lower bone mineral density was also identified in young adults of mixed ethnicity.  The authors of the study emphasized that bone mineral density is especially important for Latinos as that racial cohort faces an elevated risk for osteoporosis in adulthood.

Research insights: PFAS exposure and bone health in adolescents

Researchers gleaned insights from the Study of Latino Adolescents, encompassing 304 participants.  Additionally, the research extended its reach to include 137 young adults from the Southern California Children’s Health Study, with participants averaging 19 years of age.  Blood samples from these groups provided data on PFAS concentrations.

Subsequent evaluations were conducted at intervals of 1.5 years and 4.1 years, utilizing dual x-ray absorptiometry scans to assess bone mineral density.

The data unveiled a concerning correlation: heightened exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances correlated with a decreased body mass index during crucial bone-forming stages in adolescence and young adulthood.  Notably, a doubling of PFAS levels led to a significant decrease, specifically a 0.032 g/cm2, in bone mineral density. This metric offers a precise measure of bone density in scientific terms.

In light of these findings, it becomes evident that ongoing exposure to such chemicals could compromise bone health in the long run.  Furthermore, elevated PFAS exposure amplifies the risk of osteoporosis in later life, underscoring the potential ramifications of everyday consumer choices on bone integrity during the golden years.

Be proactive to improve your bone density and that of your children

Bone strength is vital, especially for kids and vulnerable seniors.  A simple tumble during a game, a car ride, or even a leisurely stroll in later life can result in a fracture, significantly diminishing one’s well-being.

Boosting bone density can be achieved through weight training paired with a balanced organic diet.  Both protein and vegetables play pivotal roles in bone health.  Vegetables, in particular, are rich in vitamin C, which is crucial for bolstering and sustaining bone mineral density.  Research indicates that vitamin C offers antioxidant protection to bone cells and stimulates the formation of bone-building cells.  Top vitamin C sources include broccoli, citrus fruits, kiwi, bell peppers, kale, and red cabbage.

In addition, for healthy bones, we need adequate amounts of vitamin D3, K2, and magnesium.

When navigating the aisles for groceries, natural sources of calcium deserves a top spot on your list.  This essential mineral is paramount for bone and dental strength.  The balance of calcium and other minerals in our bones directly influences their density.  To up your calcium intake, consider organic beans, peas, lentils, okra, kale, cabbage, broccoli and sea vegetables like, dulse and kelp.

Sources for this article include:

Sciencedirect.com
Medicalxpress.com