This is only one reason why I recommend people use only stainless steel cookware.
A class action lawsuit regarding contamination of the drinking water in mid-Ohio led to the discovery of a possible link between commonly used chemicals and high cholesterol in children and teens.
As a result of the lawsuit, the West Virginia School of Medicine enrolled more than 12,000 children and teens in a study to measure the blood levels of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS). When the blood levels of these chemicals were compared to those for cholesterol, researchers found that the higher the levels of PFOA and PFOS, the higher the levels of total and LDL (bad) cholesterol.
Perfluoroalkyl acids like PFOA and PFOS are synthetic compounds used in the manufacture of non-stick, heat-resistant cookware like Teflon and of upholstery and fabrics, including those used for making clothing waterproof and stain resistant. They can also be a by-product of the breakdown of chemicals used in food packaging.
We’re exposed to PFOA and PFOS through air, dust, drinking water, food packaging, microwave popcorn, and even cord blood and breast milk. In fact, just about everyone has traces of PFOA and PFOS in their blood, but this is the first study that has shown a link between these chemicals and high cholesterol.
The accumulation of cholesterol narrows the space in the arteries and blocks the flow of blood to vital organs. As a result, high cholesterol is a risk factor for heart attacks, heart disease and stroke.
High cholesterol is not uncommon in older people, but because the condition is asymptomatic, they sometimes don’t find out about it until the worst happens — heart attack, stroke or another obvious indication of heart disease.
However, many adults get their cholesterol levels checked on a regular basis so there are no surprises. Kids, on the other hand, are not checked regularly — no one really expects kids to have cholesterol problems.
To help lower the risk of heart disease and its possible fatal consequences for kids, get their cholesterol level checked and take appropriate action to reduce it if needed: Proper diet, exercise, and avoidance of chemicals like PFOA and PFOS that may cause or exacerbate the problem.
SOURCE: Science Daily http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/09/100906203040.htm
