Explaining Hormone Disruptors and How to Eliminate Them
Hormones play a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, from growth and metabolism to mood and reproductive health. However, our modern environment is filled with chemicals known as hormone disruptors, which can interfere with these vital processes. With over 1,000 man-made chemicals that classify as hormone disruptors, it can be overwhelming to know which ones are worth the priority of elimination.
Hormone disruptors have several methods of leaving the body, including sweat, urine, and bowel movements, but the most effective way to flush out hormone disruptors is through a liver detox. Products like the Organic Olivia Liver Juice (available at Simply) gently detox the liver and help work these disruptors out of your system. Additionally, it is key to pair hydration with all of these methods to ensure the body detoxifies properly.
What Are Hormone Disruptors?
Hormone disruptors (also known as endocrine disruptors) are chemicals not naturally produced by the body that can interfere with the endocrine system—the network of glands that produce and release hormones. These chemicals can mimic, block, or alter the normal function of hormones, leading to a range of health issues. Common hormone disruptors include bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, dioxins, and certain pesticides.
Why Are Hormone Disruptors Harmful?
Hormone disruptors can have significant adverse effects on health and are linked to many serious conditions, such as:
Reproductive Issues: hormone disruptors can imitate natural hormones, leading to overstimulation. For example, BPA can mimic estrogen, potentially causing reproductive issues and increasing the risk of certain cancers
Cancer: Hormones play a crucial role in regulating cell division. Disruptors that interfere with hormonal signals can lead to uncontrolled cell growth, a hallmark of cancer
Thyroid Function: Some disruptors can affect the proteins that transport thyroid hormones in the bloodstream, making it difficult for these hormones to reach their target tissues. This can lead to imbalances and poor thyroid function
Where Are Hormone Disruptors Found?
Hormone disruptors are pervasive in our environment and can be found in many everyday products. Here is a list of the most common ones to look out for in personal care products, plastics, household items, and food:
Parabens: Often used as preservatives in cosmetics and personal care products. They can mimic estrogen and have been linked to breast cancer and reproductive issues.
Phthalates: Used to stabilize fragrances and make plastics flexible. They can disrupt estrogen and thyroid hormones, potentially leading to fertility issues and early menopause.
Triclosan: An antimicrobial agent found in some soaps, hand sanitizers, and skincare products. It can alter thyroid hormone levels and contribute to antibiotic resistance.
Oxybenzone: A chemical sunscreen ingredient that helps absorb UV light. It can disrupt estrogen levels and has been linked to endometriosis and reduced fertility.
Bisphenol A (BPA): Found in plastics and the lining of canned foods. BPA can mimic estrogen and has been associated with reproductive issues and certain cancers.
BHA and BHT: Preservatives used in cosmetics to extend shelf life. They are suspected endocrine disruptors that may interfere with estrogen and testosterone, leading to reproductive and developmental issues.
Dioxins: By-products of industrial processes found in some pesticides and plastics. They can disrupt hormone signaling and have been linked to cancer and reproductive issues.
Perfluorinated Chemicals (PFCs): Used in non-stick cookware and water-repellent fabrics. They can interfere with thyroid function and have been linked to developmental issues.
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs): Industrial chemicals found in older electrical equipment and some plastics. They can disrupt thyroid hormones and have been linked to cancer.
Flame Retardants (PBDEs): Used in furniture, electronics, and baby products. They can accumulate in the thyroid gland and disrupt its function.
How to Remove Hormone Disruptors from Your Life
Reducing exposure to hormone disruptors involves making informed choices about the products you use and the foods you consume. Here are some practical tips:
Choose BPA-Free Products: Opt for BPA-free plastics or use glass and stainless steel containers for food and beverages.
Swapping out plastic Tupperware for all-glass food storage is a great place to start. Here is a link to a full set conveniently available on Amazon
Read Labels: Avoid personal care products with phthalates and choose fragrance-free options.
Think Dirty is a great tool to help you test the toxicity of your current care products. An ideal rating is between zero and three for your personal care products.
Clean Regularly: Dust and vacuum your home frequently to reduce exposure to flame retardants and other chemicals.
Branch Basics is a tried and true non-toxic household cleaning brand that is Simply approved and sold in our store!
Eat Organic: Whenever possible, choose organic produce to minimize exposure to pesticide residues.
Here is a link to the EWG’s “Dirty Dozen” for advice on what produce needs to be bought organic based on pesticide use.
Filter Your Water: Use a water filter to reduce contaminants that may include hormone disruptors.
Check out Clean Water Revival for filtration systems for your whole house (use our discount code “Britt10” at checkout).
Hormone disruptors are a hidden threat in our daily lives, but we can significantly reduce our exposure by being aware of their presence and taking proactive steps. Non-persistent disruptors such as parabens and phthalates only have a several-day lifespan at most when avoided, which is a motivating fact to instill change. Making small changes in our product choices and lifestyle can lead to better health and well-being. Stay informed and take control of your environment to protect your hormonal health.
