Hormonal Imbalance? Sneaky Ingredients Might Be to Blame

Since my PCOS diagnosis, I’ve been on a mission to eliminate endocrine disruptors from every corner of our home, from the bathroom to the pantry. Many of us don’t realize how frequently we encounter these troublesome ingredients in everyday products. In fact, we’re exposed to around 80,000 chemicals daily, which can disrupt our hormones and affect overall health. Reducing contact with these substances starts at home.

What exactly are endocrine disruptors? Let’s explore their definition, how they affect hormones, and effective strategies to minimize exposure.

Feature image by Michelle Nash.

Synthetic Chemicals and Hormonal Disruption

Hormones play a crucial role in regulating numerous bodily functions and emotions. This intricate system, known as the endocrine system, is vital for development, metabolism, and more. Its delicate balance can be easily disturbed.

While various factors can throw this balance off, synthetic chemicals are significant culprits. Present in plastics, food, fragrances, and more, these substances mimic hormones and disrupt our endocrine system. We encounter these chemicals, termed endocrine disruptors, on a daily basis.

Interested in ways to naturally balance your hormones? Check out this guide.

Understanding Endocrine Disruptors

Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are harmful substances typically found in many consumer products. These manmade chemicals can be found in items like carpets, cookware, household dust, fragrances, furniture, paints, skincare, plastics, pesticides, specific pharmaceuticals, and even unfiltered drinking water.

Once inside our bodies, they can interfere with our endocrine system by mimicking, blocking, or disrupting hormones. This can lead to significant health risks over time, but it’s possible to limit or even avoid these disruptors by making informed shopping choices.

Endocrine Disruptors: The Hidden Threat

Endocrine disruptors can wreak havoc on the body, increasing some hormone levels while decreasing others, or even mimicking hormones. They can transform one hormone into another, disrupting signaling pathways. Notably, these substances accumulate in organs, competing with essential nutrients. Emerging research indicates that EDCs may elevate risks for various health conditions, including type 2 diabetes and cancer. Avoiding them is crucial.

Download our cycle syncing planner to support your body throughout the month.

Common Endocrine Disruptors and How to Avoid Them

Endocrine disruptors lurk in various products, but here are the most prevalent ones and their hiding spots:

• Bisphenol A (BPA) and similar bisphenols: found in plastics and canned foods.
• Chemical flame retardants: present in furniture, mattresses, and kitchenware.
• High-risk pesticides: located in personal care products, conventional foods, weed killers, and unfiltered water.
• Methylisothiazolinone: a preservative in cleaning and personal care items.
• Oxybenzone: used in sunscreens and fragrances.
• Parabens: commonly found in personal care products.
• Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): present in stain-resistant carpeting, nonstick cookware, cosmetics, and certain food packaging.
• Phthalates: found in plastics, canned goods, and fragrances.
• Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs): used in paints, plastics, and rubber.
• Triclosan and triclocarban: found in cleaning products labeled as “antimicrobial.”

7 Strategies to Reduce Your Exposure to Endocrine Disruptors

Knowing what endocrine disruptors are and how they impact health is just part of the equation. Here are seven effective strategies to reduce your exposure.

Embrace Clean Beauty

We’re passionate about clean beauty! From moisturizers to makeup, we believe in using products free from harmful ingredients. Women often use an average of 12 personal care products daily, exposing themselves to over 160 chemicals. While one product may contain minimal harmful substances, the overall exposure can be significant. Thankfully, there are plenty of clean beauty brands to choose from. You can evaluate your makeup’s cleanliness ratings here.

Say Goodbye to Plastic

For your health and the planet. Research shows that plastics contain harmful chemicals, including EDCs that can disrupt hormone systems, potentially leading to cancer and reproductive disorders. Swap out your plastic containers for glass!

Let in Fresh Air

Indoor dust can harbor endocrine disruptors from various sources. Open those windows! Fresh air combats mold, purifies stale air, and even boosts serotonin levels. Don’t forget to replace your furnace and air conditioner filters regularly—about every six months for A/C, and when visibly dirty for your furnace, usually once per winter.

Review Your Cleaning Supplies

Cleaning supplies are significant EDC sources. Many can irritate the eyes or throat, and some even pose cancer risks. Instead of harsh chemicals like ammonia and bleach, choose non-toxic alternatives. Great sustainable brands include Dr. Bronner’s, Method, and Puracy. You can check the toxicity of your products here. Remember, knowledge is key!

Choose Natural Fragrances

Indoor plants add beauty and help purify the air by absorbing toxins. Plus, they increase humidity and oxygen levels. Find affordable plants that thrive in various conditions! If you enjoy candles, opt for soy or beeswax instead of paraffin candles, which release toxic chemicals. Essential oils are also a fantastic alternative.

Opt for Filtered Water

Filtering your tap water is the best way to eliminate unwanted contaminants and EDCs. We have a Berkey filter, which has been a great investment, but there are more affordable options too. Consider fridge filters or pitchers to remove chlorine and other chemicals, or install a filter on your shower head.

Consider Eco-Friendly Décor

If you’re updating your furniture, choose products free from synthetic chemicals and made sustainably. Many popular retailers, such as Wayfair, Crate and Barrel, and Pottery Barn, offer sustainable options. Boutique shops and vintage stores also provide beautiful, non-toxic furnishings. Also, think about switching to organic bedding to avoid harmful chemicals while you sleep.