Your thyroid gland plays a vital role in your health—even if you don’t think about it often. It controls hormones that regulate your energy levels, metabolism, and mood. But PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” may be interfering with your thyroid without you even realizing it.
PFAS are used in hundreds of everyday items, and they’re increasingly found in drinking water. Once in the body, they can disrupt hormone function—especially in sensitive organs like the thyroid.
Let’s explore how PFAS may be impacting your thyroid health and what you can do about it.
What Does the Thyroid Do?
The thyroid produces hormones—T3 and T4—that affect almost every system in your body. These hormones regulate your metabolism, help control your heart rate, influence your mood and concentration, and support growth, development, and reproductive health. Even small disruptions in thyroid hormone levels can lead to noticeable symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, or changes in weight.
How PFAS Affects the Thyroid
Multiple studies suggest PFAS can interfere with thyroid function in several ways. These chemicals may reduce levels of thyroid hormones, alter the way hormones are transported in your blood, and disrupt the feedback loop between your brain and thyroid. These disruptions can be especially harmful for women and developing fetuses, who are more sensitive to hormonal imbalances.
The Link Between PFAS and Hypothyroidism
One of the most common thyroid conditions connected to PFAS exposure is hypothyroidism—a condition in which the thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones. This can lead to persistent fatigue, unexpected weight gain, depression, dry skin, and increased sensitivity to cold. In pregnant individuals, insufficient thyroid hormone levels can also impact the baby’s brain development and increase the risk of complications.
Who’s at Risk?
Certain groups are especially vulnerable to PFAS-related thyroid issues. Women—particularly those who are pregnant or going through menopause—may be more affected due to hormonal changes. Children also face a higher risk, as their developing endocrine systems are more susceptible to disruption. People with autoimmune disorders, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, may experience worsened symptoms when exposed to PFAS. And anyone using private well water should take note, since these sources aren’t typically tested for PFAS contamination.
Research You Should Know About
A growing body of research confirms the PFAS-thyroid connection. For example, a study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that women with higher levels of PFAS in their blood were more likely to have thyroid disease. Another study by the CDC showed measurable changes in thyroid hormone levels in people exposed to even moderate amounts of PFAS.
What You Can Do
1. Get Your Water Tested
If you’re concerned about PFAS exposure, start by testing your drinking water. Radiant Environmental Labs provides certified, reliable PFAS testing with fast turnaround and expert support.
2. Use a Water Filter
If PFAS are detected, consider using a certified reverse osmosis or activated carbon filter. These technologies are proven to help reduce PFAS levels in drinking water.
3. Limit Other Sources of PFAS
Minimize your use of products that may contain PFAS, such as non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, and food packaging with grease-resistant coatings.
Conclusion
Your thyroid affects your entire body—and PFAS may be putting it at risk without any obvious warning signs. Understanding the link between these chemicals and hormone health is the first step toward protecting yourself and your family.
With trusted testing from Radiant Environmental Labs, you’ll get the clarity you need to take confident, informed action.