A new peer-reviewed study suggests that soluble fibre from oats may assist the body in expelling PFAS, the so-called forever chemicals. The finding provides a hopeful avenue for communities in Thailand and beyond concerned about persistent environmental pollutants. The study, published in Environmental Health on June 4, 2025, marks a cautious advance in reducing PFAS in humans.
PFAS are synthetic compounds used worldwide in non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, firefighting foams, food packaging, waterproof clothing, and cosmetics. Their durability makes them highly resistant to heat, oil, and water, but it also means they linger in the environment and in the human body for years. Research links PFAS exposure to cancers, fertility issues, developmental problems in children, thyroid disease, and immune system effects. In Thailand, concerns have grown as reports indicate PFAS contamination in drinking water, textiles, and household items, underscoring the need for protective public health measures.
In the Canadian pilot trial, 72 adult men with measurable PFAS in their blood were randomly assigned to two groups. One group received one gram of oat-derived beta-glucan fibre before each meal for four weeks; the other group took a rice-based placebo. Blood samples collected at the start and end of the month were tested for 17 PFAS compounds.
Results showed a meaningful reduction: those who consumed oat beta-glucan fibre experienced about a 10% decrease in two of the most concerning PFAS—PFOA and PFOS. Both compounds are commonly detected in food and water and are known to accumulate in the body, raising health risks. While the decline is modest, it is notable because current medical options to remove PFAS are limited. The researchers emphasize that this pilot demonstrates a practical approach to lowering PFAS in real populations, though larger and longer-term studies are needed to confirm benefits and health outcomes.
The proposed mechanism is straightforward. Beta-glucan forms a gel in the digestive tract and binds PFAS, helping to remove them before reabsorption. Beta-glucan also exists in barley and rye and has long been recognized for cholesterol-lowering effects. Its potential role in toxin removal could encourage Thai consumers to revalue fibre-rich foods and supplements in daily diets.
Thai readers are already aware of PFAS concerns in consumer products, including toys, diapers, clothing, and tap water. While a 2020 study suggested that most Thai drinking water did not exceed U.S. safety advisories, precaution remains prudent as evidence of health risks continues to mount. Public health officials and food scientists note that oat beta-glucan is generally safe for the Thai population, and products containing oat beta-glucan are available locally. Some nutritionists highlight that fibre should complement—not replace—regulatory actions to curb PFAS exposure.
The broader takeaway for Thailand is to combine personal dietary strategies with stronger regulation. International moves to phase out the most dangerous PFAS continue, though some regional manufacturers face oversight gaps. Thai authorities are pursuing PFAS-free certifications to encourage safer products, while independent testing continues to reveal PFAS in some mainstream goods.
Dietary fibre remains a natural part of Thai cuisine, but modern dietary shifts toward processed foods have reduced fibre intake for many people. The study invites a renewed appreciation of traditional fibre-rich dishes and ingredients, such as vegetables served with grains and steamed rice.
Looking ahead, researchers call for larger, more diverse clinical trials, including participants from industrial settings and communities near waterways. If future studies confirm these findings, oat fibre could become a low-cost, accessible strategy to reduce PFAS in at-risk populations alongside regulatory reforms.
Guidance for readers remains practical: stay informed about PFAS risks and avoid products likely to contain PFAS, particularly for children and pregnant individuals. Increasing natural soluble fibre through oats, barley, and a variety of vegetables can be a healthy addition to daily meals. Anyone considering supplements should consult a healthcare professional to ensure safety and appropriateness.
Public health advocacy remains essential. Community voices and policymakers can press for stronger PFAS standards, transparent product testing, and broader consumer protections. Combining personal health choices with collective action offers the strongest path toward reducing PFAS exposure.
For further context, ongoing research and reviews from independent health organisations and academic journals continue to shape understanding of PFAS and fibre-based interventions.