Fiber & PFAS: Lower ‘Forever Chemical’ Levels?
- New research indicates that increasing fiber intake could potentially lower the concentration of PFAS, or "forever chemicals," in the body.
- The study, published in Environmental Health, explored the impact of fiber supplements on PFAS levels.
- Canadian scientists examined blood samples from 72 adult men with high cholesterol.
Initial findings reveal a potential connection between fiber intake and reduced levels of harmful “forever chemicals” (PFAS) in the body. this ground-breaking study suggests that dietary fiber, specifically oat-derived beta glucan, may significantly lower the concentration of long-chain PFAS chemicals in the blood. Scientists observed this impact in a recent trial, highlighting a possible new approach to mitigating the health risks linked to these pervasive compounds. While the research from News Directory 3 is preliminary,it underscores the importance of fiber for overall health and may become a key factor in managing PFAS exposure. What dietary adjustments will future studies recommend?
Can Fiber reduce Levels of PFAS ‘Forever Chemicals’?
Updated June 03, 2025
New research indicates that increasing fiber intake could potentially lower the concentration of PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” in the body. These synthetic compounds, linked to various health concerns, contaminate the tap water of an estimated 200 million Americans and are found in numerous everyday products.
The study, published in Environmental Health, explored the impact of fiber supplements on PFAS levels. PFAS,known for their environmental persistence and accumulation in the human body,have raised concerns due to their association with cancer and endocrine disruption.
Canadian scientists examined blood samples from 72 adult men with high cholesterol. All participants had at least six different types of PFAS in their blood. Researchers divided the group, with one receiving a daily oat-derived beta glucan fiber supplement and the other a placebo, over four weeks.
While all participants experienced a decrease in PFAS levels, the fiber supplement group showed a more significant reduction in specific long-chain PFAS chemicals, including PFOA, PFNA, and PFOS.These long-chain PFAS are particularly persistent in the habitat and the human body.
How Fiber Might Help Reduce PFAS
Previous research has suggested a connection between diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber and lower PFAS concentrations. The recent study suggests that dietary fibers may hinder the absorption or reabsorption of PFAS by creating a gel-like barrier in the gut. This barrier traps substances similar in structure to PFAS, such as bile acid, preventing their uptake.
The researchers noted that gel-forming fibers are commonly found in foods like oats and barley.
Study Limitations
The study authors acknowledged limitations, including a small sample size and a short intervention period. They noted that the long half-lives of manny PFAS compounds might require longer interventions to observe ample changes. The study also lacked data on participants’ PFAS exposure sources.
Further research is needed to determine if higher fiber concentrations lead to greater PFAS reductions. Despite these limitations, the authors suggest that increasing fiber intake presents a practical approach to reducing the burden of forever chemicals in the body.
What’s next
Future studies should investigate the long-term effects of fiber supplementation on PFAS levels and explore the potential benefits of incorporating fiber-rich foods into daily diets as a strategy for mitigating PFAS exposure.