A group of chemicals found in common household items may be having dangerous effects on our hormones, new research shows. A study on sheep and cells grown in the laboratory by Norwegian vets found that perfluorinated compounds found in water resistant clothes and non-stick frying pans can affect the body's steroid hormones including estrogen, testosterone and cortisol. These hormones are necessary for regulating a number of bodily functions in humans and animals, including our ability to reproduce. The research also discovered similar effects caused by polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), a group of chemicals that have been banned since the 1970s but continue to persist in the environment. To regulate he use of PFCs one could try to limit the use of clothes treated with water and grease repellent containing PFCs. It may also be wise to use cookware coated with non-stick "Teflon"-type coatings with care, especially when damaged. Alternatively, one may consider going back to the good old-fashioned cast iron frying pan. The DuPont corporation, which produces Teflon products disputed the findings saying that 'while some associations have been reported, no human effects are known to be caused byPFOA (the PFC chemical in Teflon products)'. Ever since my mom read about Teflo products being bad for your health she has changed to cast irons and stainless steel which do not release as many chemicals into the food as Teflon. However, like the article says, the incremental risks are small but regardless, a little bit at a time can add up to a lot so I rather follow my mom's advice and not use Teflon products to look after my health in the future.
Link to site: http://www.theecologist.org/News/news_round_up/570519/nonstick_pans_can_affect_our_hormones_new_research_suggests.html
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