PFAS Are Polluting Your Body—Here’s How to Fight Back

I’ve been sounding the alarm on microplastics and chemical pollution for years.

And the more research, the clearer it becomes: these “invisible invaders” are doing serious harm.

Now, new guidance on PFAS—also known as “forever chemicals”—shows how widespread the problem is… and what you can do about it.

These substances are used in everything from nonstick pans and waterproof jackets to food packaging and even dental floss. And thanks to their unique chemical structure, they don’t break down.

Once they enter your body, they can linger for decades—triggering inflammation, hormone disruption, and increased risk of cancer, heart disease, thyroid dysfunction, and more.

The worst part?

Everyone has been exposed.

While you can’t eliminate PFAS exposure entirely, there are practical, effective ways to minimize the damage—starting with a few key changes to your everyday habits.

1. Filter your water: This is one of the most powerful things you can do. Tap water in many parts of the country still contains measurable PFAS levels. Until public systems meet the new EPA standards (by 2029!), it’s smart to use a certified high-quality water filter to remove PFAS. Look for products tested by NSF or the Water Quality Association.
2. Ditch the nonstick cookware: If you still use Teflon pans from 10 years ago, now’s the time to upgrade. Opt for cast iron, stainless steel, or glass. And don’t be fooled by “PFOA-free” labels—some products still contain other harmful PFAS chemicals.
3. Choose smarter seafood: Shellfish and freshwater fish—especially those caught near urban or industrial areas—can carry high PFAS loads. That doesn’t mean you need to give up seafood, but stick to wild-caught varieties from clean waters and check your state’s guidelines if you fish locally.
4. Watch your personal care products: PFAS can be absorbed through the skin, especially in moisturizers, lipsticks, foundations, and sunscreens. Scan the label—or better yet, use an app like Clearya to spot hidden fluoro-based ingredients.

5. Rethink your furniture and fabrics: That “stain-resistant” couch or water-repellent jacket? Probably PFAS-coated. When shopping, look for PFAS-free labeling or stick to natural materials like cotton, wool, and untreated wood.

6. Shop with less packaging: PFAS often coat the inside of fast-food wrappers, takeout containers, and even some compostable packaging. Buying in bulk, cooking at home, and choosing glass or foil-wrapped goods can slash your exposure.

7. Skip the drive-thru: PFAS in fast food packaging are a major concern. One Consumer Reports study found PFAS in almost every fast-food wrapper tested—even from big-name “healthy” chains. Cooking at home is not only healthier—it’s cleaner.

8. Upgrade your clothing: Athletic wear, raincoats, and shoes made with nylon, spandex, or polyester often contain PFAS. Choose natural fibers like organic cotton or wool, and look for brands committed to PFAS-free products (the Green Science Policy Institute has a great list).

You can’t live in a bubble. But you can make better choices.

PFAS and microplastics aren’t going away anytime soon—but every small step you take to reduce your exposure adds up.

You’re protecting not just your health but your hormones, your heart, and your future.

P.S. This hidden food ingredient is threatening your health.

View Sources

Rickard, B. P., Rizvi, I., & Fenton, S. E. (2022). Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and female reproductive outcomes: PFAS elimination, endocrine-mediated effects, and disease. Toxicology, 465, 153031.