# 168 chemicals found in food linked to gut damage and fertility risks, study shows

- URL: https://theranews.net/blog/2026-01-21-168-chemicals-found-in-food-linked-to-gut-damage-and-fertility-risks-study-shows-8c6a1e/
- Published: 2026-01-21
- Type: Archive summary (AI-assisted summary of third-party reporting)
- Original outlet: capitalgazette
- Original report: https://www.capitalgazette.com/2026/01/20/are-you-washing-produce/
- Topics: maryland
- Publisher: TheraNews, operated by AdvancedCare USA Inc.
- Notice: Educational content, not medical, legal, billing or financial advice. Cite the original outlet, not this summary.

> Many everyday chemicals can affect your gut health and even male fertility, recent research shows. Proper food preparation, including washing and peeling fruits and vegetables, can protect from common pesticides.

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![168 chemicals found in food linked to gut damage and fertility risks, study shows](/uploads/news-images/168-chemicals-found-in-food-linked-to-gut-damage-a-20260121170052.jpg)

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*Originally reported by capitalgazette. [Read more](https://www.capitalgazette.com/2026/01/20/are-you-washing-produce/)*

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*Source: [https://www.capitalgazette.com/2026/01/20/are-you-washing-produce/](https://www.capitalgazette.com/2026/01/20/are-you-washing-produce/)*