New study findings from U.S. researchers have found a link between chemicals used to make non-stick coatings on cookware and increased levels of cholesterol in children.
Researchers found that children with the highest levels of these compounds in their blood had measurably higher levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein, or LDL - the "bad" cholesterol, compared with children with lower readings.
The researchers studied perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS), two compounds that make their way into people through drinking water, dust, food packaging, breast milk, cord blood, microwave popcorn and non-stick cookware.
To investigate, researchers examined cholesterol levels in blood samples taken from more than 12,000 children.
Children and teens in the study had more PFOA in their bodies than the national average, and a PFOS concentration about the same as the national average.
Researchers found that children and teens with the highest PFOA concentration had total cholesterol levels that were 4.6 points higher and LDL levels that were 3.8 points higher than those with the lowest PFOA levels.
The team said the findings suggest an association between the compounds and higher cholesterol, but it would take more studies to prove chemical exposure was the cause.
The study was published in the Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine.
Researchers found that children with the highest levels of these compounds in their blood had measurably higher levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein, or LDL - the "bad" cholesterol, compared with children with lower readings.
The researchers studied perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS), two compounds that make their way into people through drinking water, dust, food packaging, breast milk, cord blood, microwave popcorn and non-stick cookware.
To investigate, researchers examined cholesterol levels in blood samples taken from more than 12,000 children.
Children and teens in the study had more PFOA in their bodies than the national average, and a PFOS concentration about the same as the national average.
Researchers found that children and teens with the highest PFOA concentration had total cholesterol levels that were 4.6 points higher and LDL levels that were 3.8 points higher than those with the lowest PFOA levels.
The team said the findings suggest an association between the compounds and higher cholesterol, but it would take more studies to prove chemical exposure was the cause.
The study was published in the Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine.
All research on this web site is the property of Leslie Beck Nutrition Consulting Inc. and is protected by copyright. Keep in mind that research on these matters continues daily and is subject to change. The information presented is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. It is intended to provide ongoing support of your healthy lifestyle practices.