Are you talking to your IBD patients about how to limit their exposure to microplastics and endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) like bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, and “forever chemicals” such as per- and polyfluoroalkyls (PFAs)?
I’ll admit I haven’t emphasized this enough, but research—both in animals and humans—shows we need to limit ongoing exposure to these environmental contaminants.
Here are some reasons it’s especially important for those with IBD:
- These chemicals may worsen intestinal inflammation, speeding up disease progression and worsening symptoms.
- They may disrupt the gut microbiome and those with IBD already have dysbiosis of the gut microbiome.
- They’re linked to chronic diseases which are more common among people with IBD.
- IBD patients are more likely to absorb these chemicals due to increased intestinal permeability.
- Studies show higher levels of microplastics in the feces of IBD patients compared to healthy people.
- Exposure to these chemicals reduces the production of butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that helps strengthen the intestinal barrier and reduce inflammation in the colon.
To help you guide your patients on ways to minimize their exposure to these contaminants, I’ve created a checklist you can share with your patients.
Encourage them to take small steps—not to aim for perfection—since even small changes make a big difference.
Also, keep in mind that “BPA-free” doesn’t = safe.
Many manufacturers replaced BPA with similar chemicals, like BPS and BPF, which may be just as harmful.
While choosing BPA-free products might help, it’s better to reduce exposure to all plastics when possible.
Click here for your checklist!
For a deeper dive into the topic, check out the article “Adverse Health Effects of Emerging Contaminants on Inflammatory Bowel Disease“.
