Hidden "forever chemicals" in food and water may harm kids’ bone development, study finds

Invisible but everywhere—“forever chemicals” could be affecting children’s bone health. A new study links PFAS exposure to lower bone density in teens. Here’s what parents should know. (Pic: Pexels)

• Early PFAS exposure tied to reduced teen bone density
• PFOA chemical found to weaken forearm bones in children
• Girls may be more vulnerable to PFAS effects than boys

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There’s a menace in modern living, that lingers in water, in food, in other things. Scientists now warn these “forever chemicals” may be meddling with children’s bones. Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are highly persistent chemicals that don’t easily break down, allowing them to accumulate in soil, water, and the human body, including in developing children.

A recent study has found that youngsters exposed to higher levels of certain PFAS early in life showed lower bone density by the time they reached their teenage years.

During the study, researchers followed over 200 children from birth, tracking chemical exposure at various stages, delivery, early childhood, and the cusp of adolescence. By age twelve, differences began to show.

Those with more of one chemical, PFOA, in their blood had notably weaker bones in the forearm.

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What’s more unsettling is the timing. It’s not just exposure, but when it happens. Early years, they say, may be particularly delicate. And girls, according to the findings, appear more vulnerable than boys, though the reasons remain unclear.

The teenage years are when the body builds bones. If this doesn’t happen properly, it can lead to weak bones, fractures, or osteoporosis later in life. Scientists aren’t panicking yet, but they are concerned. Because these chemicals are everywhere and last a long time, reducing exposure early in life could help protect health.

Here are the key concerns from the study

Being exposed to PFAS at a young age may affect how bones grow during the teenage years, which is when the body is supposed to build lifelong strength.

One chemical, PFOA, was clearly linked to weaker bones in the forearm, showing that some of these substances may be especially harmful.

When exposure happens matters a lot. Early childhood seems to be a more sensitive time, when the body may not handle these chemicals well.

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Girls seem to be more affected than boys, though experts are still trying to understand why.

PFAS are found in many everyday products and even in foods like milk, grains, fruits, and vegetables, especially if they come from polluted areas, making them hard to avoid.

FAQs on bone development and hidden chemicals in food

How do these chemicals affect bone development in children?

PFAS may interfere with the way bones grow and strengthen during childhood and the teenage years. The study suggests that higher exposure, especially in early life, is linked with lower bone density, which can mean weaker bones as children grow older.

Where might these “forever chemicals” be hiding in my child’s food?

PFAS can enter food through polluted soil and water. They may be present in foods like milk, grains, fruits, and vegetables grown in contaminated areas. They can also come from food packaging and other everyday products that contain these chemicals.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.