PFAS Can Weaken Bone Health & Fertility: What You Need to Know

The Hidden Danger to Bone Health

For decades, we’ve been told that strong bones come from drinking milk and getting enough calcium. However, new research is shedding light on a hidden threat to bone health: PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), also known as forever chemicals due to their persistence in the environment and human body.

A recent study published in Environmental Research examined how exposure to PFAS impacts bone mineral density during two critical developmental stages—childhood and young adulthood. The findings suggest that these chemicals impair bone development, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures later in life.

Understanding PFAS and Their Impact

PFAS are synthetic chemicals widely used to make products waterproof, stain-resistant, and nonstick. They are found in everyday items such as cookware, food packaging, personal care products, and even drinking water. Since these chemicals do not break down easily, they accumulate in our environment and bodies, with research showing that 97% of Americans have detectable PFAS levels in their bloodstream.

Although the long-term effects of PFAS are still being studied, prior research has linked them to immune dysfunction, thyroid disorders, liver disease, kidney disease, and even certain cancers. This latest study adds to growing concerns by demonstrating a direct link between PFAS exposure and lower bone mineral density.

The Study’s Findings

The study examined nearly 500 young people from two cohorts: the Study of Latino Adolescents at Risk of Type 2 Diabetes and the Southern California Children's Health Study. Researchers focused on Hispanic participants due to their increased risk for osteoporosis and limited representation in past PFAS research.

Participants underwent blood tests to measure PFAS levels and DXA scans to assess bone mineral density. Follow-up assessments conducted 1–4 years later revealed that individuals with higher PFAS exposure had significantly lower bone mineral density, particularly in the adolescent Latino cohort. While the correlation wasn’t statistically significant across all groups, the trend was clear: PFAS exposure compromises bone strength.

The researchers believe PFAS may disrupt hormonal regulation, including hormones involved in bone formation and calcium absorption. Since peak bone mass is reached by age 30, any impairment during early development can have lifelong consequences.

Why This Matters

Weak bones are not just a concern for the elderly—bone health is built in childhood and adolescence. If young people do not achieve optimal bone mineral density, they are at greater risk of osteoporosis and fractures later in life.

Despite this, bone health often isn’t discussed until problems arise. "We always hear growing up that calcium and vitamin D are good for our bones, but the discussion often stops there," says Clare Masternak, PA-C, an orthopedic surgery physician assistant at Michigan Medicine. This study highlights the need to broaden the conversation to include environmental factors like PFAS exposure.

How to Reduce Your PFAS Exposure

While PFAS are nearly impossible to avoid completely, there are steps you can take to limit your exposure:

• Test your tap water and invest in a water filter if necessary.

• Switch to PFAS-free cookware, avoiding nonstick pans.

• Reduce plastic use, particularly when storing or heating food.

• Choose safer personal care products, avoiding “waterproof” or “long-lasting” cosmetics.

• Look for PFAS-free dental floss and food packaging.

By making these small changes, you can help protect your bone health and overall well-being.

New research confirms that PFAS exposure can negatively affect bone development, increasing the risk of osteoporosis later in life. These chemicals don’t just impact bones—they have also been linked to fertility issues, immune dysfunction, and other health risks. While eliminating PFAS completely is difficult, taking steps to reduce exposure can significantly improve long-term health.

Beyond their impact on bones, PFAS chemicals have been linked to fertility issues. Studies suggest that PFAS can disrupt hormone balance, reduce egg quality, and impair reproductive function in both men and women. High levels of PFAS exposure have been associated with longer times to conceive and increased risks of pregnancy complications.

If you're trying to conceive or concerned about reproductive health, limiting PFAS exposure is especially important. Our fertility-focused medication is designed to help remove PFAS from the body, supporting optimal reproductive function.

Take charge of your fertility journey today with PureFertility and embrace the future you deserve, take a look at PureFertility today!

References

• Qian, Y., Zhang, L., Wang, W., et al. "Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and bone mineral density: A systematic review and meta-analysis." Environmental Research, 2024.

• Loewe, Emma. "PFAS Can Disrupt Bone Health, Development, and Growth." Mindbodygreen, 2024.