A study reports that a class of synthetic chemicals called PFAS, which have links to cancers and other health issues, are “nearly ubiquitous” in surface waters across the United States.
Manufacturers use the chemicals, known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS, to make coatings that resist heat, oils, stains, and water. They apply these materials to various products, including clothing, furniture, food packaging, nonstick cookware, and dental floss.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the health effects of low PFAS levels in the environment are uncertain.
However, the trouble with PFAS is that they are highly stable molecules and, therefore, don’t break down naturally, earning them the title “forever chemicals.” This means they steadily accumulate not only in the environment but possibly also in people’s bodies.
The CDC note that animal studies suggest exposure to high levels of PFAS can affect growth and development, reproduction, thyroid function, immunity, and the liver.
Around 97% of people in the United States have detectable levels of PFAS in their blood.
VERY HIGH DOSAGES OF VITAMIN D MAY DELAY FRAILTY IN OLD AGE
A small study in mice suggests that a dosage of vitamin D five times the current recommended amount for older adults could slow the development of frailty. However, the researchers now need to confirm this finding in humans.
Doctors currently define a person as “frail” if they display three or more of the following five characteristics:
• unexpected weight loss
• weak grip strength
• self-reported exhaustion
• low levels of physical activity
• slow walking speed
Frailty tends to increase with age, affecting around half of individuals aged over 85 years. It is associated with disability, loss of independence, and increased rates of mortality.
Research suggests that people who have low levels of vitamin D in their blood are more likely to become frail. This is a particularly pressing concern, as up to 1 billion people globally may have insufficient levels. Having adequate levels of vitamin D is associated with a wide range of health benefits, including healthier bones and teeth and stronger immunity to respiratory infections.
