Are your hormones getting screwed up by endocrine disruptors?

Are your hormones getting screwed up by endocrine disruptors?

It might be hard to say for sure, but this is definitely something for you to be aware of.

What is the Endocrine System?​

​In short, the endocrine system is your hormonal system. It regulates all biological processes from conception, through growth and development and into old age.

Your hormones are chemical messengers that tell your body (cells) what to do and when, including:

• Metabolism (the way you break down food and get energy from nutrients).
• Growth and development.
• Emotions and mood.
• Fertility and sexual function.
• Sleep.
• Blood pressure.

Major Components (not an exclusive list) of Your Endocrine System:

• Ovaries
• Testes
• Thyroid gland
• Pituitary gland

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What is an Endocrine Disruptor?

An Endocrine Disruptor is a chemical, natural or man-made, that mimics or  interfere​s with the body’s hormones. These chemicals bind to the hormone receptors in the body and can change or disrupt the natural and delicate balance.

​What conditions or symptoms might occurs due to Endocrine Disruptors?

Specific to Estrogen Disruptors:

• • PMS
  • Tender breasts
  • Heavy periods
  • Clots
  • Fibroids
  • Mood changes

More:​

• • Diabetes
  • Thyroid disorder
  • Low testosterone
  • PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome)
  • Osteoporosis
  • Obesity
  • Early puberty
  • Infertility

Where are Endocrine Disruptors found?

Everywhere. These disruptors are found throughout our environment and in everyday products we use and come in contact with.

For example, cosmetics, skincare, body care, cleaning products, air fresheners, canned foods, cookware, plastic water bottles, gardening products, toys, packaging materials, laundry detergents, plastic food storage containers, shampoo, hair coloring, and so many more items and paths (think air, water, food.)

What changes can you make in daily life?

• ​Use glassware, not plastic
• Skip plastic wrap
• Make your own household cleaner (try water, white vinegar, essential oil)
• Use pure Castile soap (Dr. Bonner) and avoid Antibacterial soaps and hand sanitizer
• Drink your adult beverages that come in glass, not cans.
• Change your diet, eat fewer processed foods, more organic if you can; buy local
• Avoid soy, especially if you are male or pre-menopausal. Soy is a phytoestrogen and acts like estrogen.
• Reconsider birth control pills
• Change your skin care and make-up products to avoid common bad ingredients
  • • Here’s an infographic about the chemicals in your cosmetics:
    • ​

Sources:

https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/end…​

https://draxe.com/health/endocrine-disruptors-how-…​

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/212…​

https://drbeckycampbell.com/hidden-endocrine-disru…​