Chemical in food wrappers ‘makes women gain weight’

CHEMICALS used in non-stick pans, food wrappers and waterproof coats may contribute to obesity, scientists have warned.

The compounds, known as perfluoroalkyl substances or PFASs, are believed to reduce human metabolism.

It is thought this is because they disrupt hormones – particularly the female sex hormone oestrogen, which controls body weight.

They may thus be a factor in yo-yo dieting, where women tend to pile on weight again after slimming.

PFASs have been used for more than 60 years but have been linked with cancer and raised cholesterol levels.

Their widespread use means traces have been found in human breast milk as well as blood. Other studies have found the chemicals in drinking water and fish.

A US-led study of more than 600 people found those with high levels of PFASs in their blood are more likely to regain weight after dieting. For women, this could mean a difference of 2.2kg in the weight they put back on.

The research found the chemicals are linked to lower metabolism, so people burn fewer calories, making it harder to stop weight gain.

Lead author Dr Qi Sun, of Harvard University, said: ‘Our findings have revealed a novel pathway through which PFASs might interfere with human body weight regulation and thus contribute to the obesity epidemic.’