A new study published in Nature Communication in August by Cedars-Sinai investigators details the endocrine disrupting dangers of certain chemicals including Butylhydroxytoluene (BHT), a commonly added preservative to packaged foods and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a polymer found in non-stick (or teflon) cookware. Specifically, these chemicals have been found to disrupt gut-brain communication, interfering with signals sent from the digestive system to the brain to indicate satiety. As a result of this communication break-down, we might continue eating and over-eat instead of stopping when “full’!
Now of course, other things can also result in a break-down of our gut-brain communication, especially stress and being stuck in the sympathetic nervous system over-stimulation (fight or flight). Additionally, emotional eating may be at the root of your over-eating and needs to be dealt with if you can’t put down your fork, even after you are full. That said, this study provides another reason to ditch your teflon cookware and limit processed foods. In fact, what a simple thing to do to limit over-eating by improving gut-brain communication–cook with better pans!
My choice for cookware is stainless steel (yes, use more fats to limit sticking) and iron. Iron pans are just as good at not allowing for sticking when properly “seasoned,” provide a little added iron to our diet, and they provide a great workout for your wrists!
Bon appetit!
Thank you for making us aware of this interesting study. I have always been suspicious of non-stick cookware as they need types of elements to give the non-stick property. I’ve tried cast iron alternatives, but they are way too heavy and so resorted back to Teflon. I’ll try stainless steel next.
Leo Tat recently posted..Eating Avocado Is Good for You: 23 Health Benefits and Nutrition Facts
Thanks for commenting Leo! I do love my iron pans but yes they can be a bit tough on the wrists! I do use stainless steel for some things but unfortunately it is more likely to stick unless there is a lot of liquid/broth or using a heavier dose of a healthy cooking oil. Speaking of healthy fats – I love how much research you put into your avocado article!
Katie Bauer recently posted..Collard Burritos Save the Day and the Leftovers (with Video Tutorial)
Hi Katie,
This is a very informative post. Not everyone is aware of this. That’s the reason why I always do my research for every cookware I purchase or any purchase for that matter, especially if it affects health and well-being. I couldn’t agree more, it’s time to DITCH Teflon cookware and limit processed food.
Thank you for sharing!
Cheers,
Jessica
So true! Thanks for commenting!
Katie Bauer recently posted..When Stopping Overeating Isn’t About Breaking a Bad Habit