brominated flame retardants

Brominated Flame Retardants

Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are a group of man-made chemicals used in a variety of products, including electronics, textiles, and plastics, to make them resistant to fire. While not typically considered a nutritional supplement, they are bioactive compounds that can accumulate in the environment and in human tissues.

Category

Environmental pollutants

Molecular Formula

Variable

Mechanism of Action

BFRs are persistent organic pollutants that can bioaccumulate. They have potential endocrine disrupting properties, and can interact with thyroid hormone regulation and other biological functions.

Evidence Grade

C

Other Names

• Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)
• Polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs)
• Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA)

Side Effects

• Potential endocrine disruption
• Potential neurodevelopmental toxicity

Precautions

• Avoidance of products containing BFRs where possible
• Regular monitoring of BFR levels in at-risk populations

Key References

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3569688/
• https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412015300476