In this article, we are talking about things that can mess up your hormones. A big, fancy word for these chemicals is Endocrine Disruptors. Let's talk about what these are, what they do and why you probably want to avoid them!
An endocrine disruptor is a substance or chemical compound that interferes with the normal functioning of the endocrine system in humans or animals. The endocrine system is responsible for producing and regulating hormones, which play a crucial role in maintaining various bodily functions and processes.
Endocrine disruptors can mimic, block, or interfere with the action of natural hormones in the body. They can bind to hormone receptors, alter hormone production, disrupt hormone signaling pathways, or interfere with the metabolism and elimination of hormones. As a result, they can disrupt the balance and normal functioning of the endocrine system, leading to a wide range of adverse effects.
These effects can include developmental abnormalities, reproductive disorders, fertility problems, impaired immune function, metabolic disorders, neurological and behavioral changes, and an increased risk of certain cancers. Endocrine disruptors can affect both humans and animals, and their impact can vary depending on factors such as the dose, duration of exposure, and individual susceptibility.
Endocrine disruptors can be found in various sources, including certain chemicals used in manufacturing, pesticides, plastics, personal care products, household cleaners, and some medications. They can enter the body through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact. Additionally, some endocrine disruptors can persist in the environment and accumulate in the food chain, leading to potential exposure through contaminated food and water.
Two of the worst offenders, in my opinion, are parabens found in cosmetics and beauty care products and the soft plastics found in disposable water bottles and plastic containers that you microwave food in. These plastics break down in the heat and leak into the food or water and then you consume them. They mimic estrogen and can contribute to symptoms of estrogen dominance like heavy menstrual cycles, cramping, PMS, etc. You can read more about Estrogen in this article.
Regulatory agencies and scientific organizations closely study and monitor the effects of endocrine disruptors to assess their potential risks and establish guidelines and regulations to protect human health and the environment. I think it's important to note that these "Regulatory agencies" are sometimes out of alignment with those of us who are more naturally minded. These are the same agencies that believe artificial sweeteners are fine and just decided that "meat" created in a lab is safe for human consumption. I think it's also helpful to note that there are many other countries outside of the US that have established that many of the chemicals we find in our foods, cosmetics, cleaning products and beauty care products are unsafe. These substances have been banned in many other places. One of my favorite ways to check for these chemicals is an app called Yuka. It's a free app on the app store or google play store. There is a paid version that I think it worth contributing to if you are able and find value. But, the free version does what you need it to do. I also like the Environmental Working Group and they have an app called "Healthy living" as well. Those apps will help you identify chemicals in the products you are using so that you can switch to a safer option if you find that your brands contain these things you are wishing to avoid.
I hope you found this valuable. Please share it with someone who needs this information. We deserve to know if what are putting on and in our bodies is causing harm!
If you or someone you know has questions about their hormones or their health in general and is looking for root cause health care, I offer a free discovery call where we can chat and see if we are a good fit to work together. Just click the button below and I'll give you a call!
To your Health,
Dr. Jeni
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