The Gut Check: July 18th

Welcome to this week’s Gut Check. In a new study published by researchers at Cambridge, scientists identified nine strains of gut bacteria that could absorb PFAS compounds (also known as forever chemicals) and remove them from the body — specifically via feces.

In their mouse model, the bacteria managed to clear 25 to 74 percent of PFAS from the system. That’s a big deal, especially considering that PFAS typically stay locked in human tissue for years.

The bacteria appear to use a two-part strategy:

Absorption: They pull PFAS into their cells.
Expulsion: They use molecular efflux pumps to eject the toxins for removal.

Translation: these microbes basically swallow up toxic chemicals and help flush them out of the body the natural way.

Read the full article in The Guardian

A New Class of Detox Probiotics?

The discovery of PFAS-flushing gut bacteria has sparked growing excitement in the field of functional probiotics — specifically, a new class of microbes that don’t just support health but actively eliminate environmental toxins.

Unlike conventional probiotics that focus on digestion or immunity, these next-gen strains could be engineered or selected for their ability to bind and expel industrial chemicals from the body. That means we may be approaching a future where popping a capsule with your smoothie could help flush out years of accumulated forever chemicals.

Enter Cambiotics, the biotech startup collaborating with Cambridge scientists. Their mission is to develop a clinically tested, PFAS-targeting probiotic supplement designed to colonize the gut and do the dirty work — safely absorbing and excreting toxins like PFOA and PFNA before they can wreak havoc in organs and tissues.

But make no mistake: this is early science. We’re still in the animal-testing phase, and human trials are needed to verify safety, dosage, and long-term effects. Yet the concept itself is revolutionary.

It represents a bold shift — from defense to offense in detox science. Instead of merely avoiding exposure, your gut could become an active agent of resilience in an increasingly toxic world.

Imagine grabbing a bottle labeled:
PFAS Gut Flush: Microbial Detox for Modern Living

It sounds futuristic. But it might not be far off.

Why This Matters

Most of us already have PFAS in our bodies. The CDC estimates that 98 percent of Americans have detectable levels of PFAS in their blood. And traditional detox methods — like drinking more water or sweating it out — don’t actually move the needle much.

This new research offers hope that our gut (often seen as the epicenter of digestion and mood) could also be a frontline defense against the toxins of modern life.

It’s also a powerful reminder of something deeper:
Your microbiome isn’t just a passive ecosystem. It’s an active, intelligent partner in your survival.

So, Can I Start Detoxing PFAS Today?

Not yet. This research is in the early stages and has only been tested in mice. But while we wait for human trials and probiotic products designed for PFAS removal, there are a few things you can do to support your body’s natural detox capacity:

Eat more fiber. Soluble fiber (like that found in oats, beans, and psyllium husk) can help bind some toxins in the gut.

Support your microbiome. Fermented foods like sauerkraut, kefir, and miso can help build a diverse bacterial community.

Avoid additional exposure. Use PFAS-free cookware, check water filters (look for NSF P473 certification), and steer clear of fast food packaging.

And of course… stay tuned. This field is moving fast, and your gut may soon be your most powerful tool in flushing out the toxic legacy of the industrial age.