Endocrine disruptors are manufactured chemicals that affect the endocrine system and hormone levels in the body. They mimic hormones, block hormone receptors or disrupt hormone production by endocrine glands. These disruptors pose a particularly high risk to women’s health due to their tendency to accumulate in fatty tissue and their interaction with the female hormonal system.
Heavy metals like lead released into the environment through human activity is one such offender. Other common offenders include the following:
- Bisphenol A (BPA): Found in plastics, receipts, and consumer goods.
- Dioxins: Toxic byproducts from chemical and herbicide production.
- Phthalates and plasticizers: Chemicals that make plastic more soft or pliable.
- Perchlorates: Components in rocket fuel.
- Atrazine: A widely used herbicide.
- Flame retardants: Found in furniture and children’s pajamas.
- Heavy metals, including lead, arsenic, and mercury.
- PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances): “Forever chemicals” found in cookware, clothing, carpet, makeup, and more.
- Pesticides: Neurotoxic substances used in agriculture.
- Glycol ethers: Solvents in paint and cleaning products.
- Parabens: Preservatives used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
Exposure to these disruptors can contribute to metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity, fertility issues, and an increased risk of cancers and asthma. They can also impact neurodevelopmental conditions like Autism Spectrum Disorder. Additionally, these chemicals can persist across generations, being transmitted from mothers to their offspring through the placenta and breast milk.
Of particular concern are xenoestrogens, which mimic estrogen in the body, leading to estrogen dominance and associated symptoms like PMS and increased cancer risk.
There are things you can do to mitigate the risks, when you know where these chemicals hide. Below are changes you can make to help reduce exposure:
- Learn about your drinking water as it may be a significant source of endocrine disruptors and other toxins depending on where you live. You may need a water filter. In Lumby check out the CARO website or call toll free 1-877-769-9646
- Consider an air filter in your home. Chemicals from upholstery, furniture, and building materials contaminate indoor air. Other things to take advantage of are to frequently open windows, dust, and vacuum to improve air quality.
- Choose your food wisely, grow, buy locally or within a 100-mile radius and or buy organic. These practices can significantly reduce pesticides, herbicides, and other toxins.
- Choose fresh whole foods over packaged as the packaging can be a source of endocrine disruptors, like the lining of aluminum cans and plastic wrap.
- Reduce or better yet reduce use of plastic as much as possible. Choose glass, ceramic, or stainless steel instead. Never heat food in plastic as endocrine disruptors can leach into the food.
- If possible, replace your non-stick cookware. Choose ceramic or cast iron instead.
- Choose unscented products or essential oils instead of scented fragrant candles, perfume, air fresheners and other personal care items that may contain endocrine disruptors.
- Choose non-toxic furniture when buying a new couch or are renovating your home. Look for pieces with third-party certifications, such as OEKO-TEX, Greenguard, FSC, GOTS, and GOLS.
- When replacing or buying your new wardrobe find natural fiber clothing as organic cotton or bamboo and if buying children’s clothing look for flame retardant-free.
- Our skin is one of the most significant sources of chemical exposure, especially for women, so be cautious what you put on it. . A good resource is the EWG’s Skin Deep Database – https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/
- Cleaning products are another significant source of hidden toxins. EWG’s Guide to Healthy Cleaning – https://www.ewg.org/cleaners/
- Lastly receipts are a source of BPA that can absorb into the skin. Ask for the receipt in the bag, an email receipt, or decline a receipt.
In the end it’s about awareness and minimizing your risk. You may not be able to do all of the above, but even implementing a few can help reduce your exposure.
Not sure where to start or how to manage, please contact me below to get you started, first consultation is always free.
Mikkie Nettles-Pollon, Certified Personal Trainer/Holistic & Sports Nutritionist
Not sure where to begin, contact me at info@deemhealth.ca
250-541 -0411.
www.deamhealth.ca
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