Do you know that some of the most common endocrine disruptors are found in your kitchen?

You may not know this, but the very cleaning products you use daily contain common endocrine disruptors. People can even be unknowingly eating foods that contain traces of these chemicals.

But these hidden toxins can be easily avoided if you know what to watch out for.

What are endocrine disruptors?

Endocrine disruptors are toxins that can cause issues in your immune, neurological, and reproductive systems. They are more dangerous during the prenatal and postnatal period, especially at the time of organ development.

The endocrine system is made up of the glands of the body, along with the hormones produced by each one, including the thyroid. Endocrine disruptors target and act like thyroid hormones in the body. In this way, they disrupt the production of normal hormones causing various health problems.

Endocrine disruptors in the kitchen

• Bisphenol A (BPA) – BPA is a toxin usually found in plastic food storage containers and plastic water bottles. The linings of canned products also have BPA. It mimics estrogen in the body and is associated with certain cancers and obesity. Avoid BPA by not buying plastic and canned products. Buy glass water bottles and food containers instead. If you need plastic products, buy those that are BPA-free.
• Fragrances – Various cleaning and personal care products contain artificial fragrances. Most fragrances are made from petrochemicals which are associated with allergies, cancer, and nervous system disorders. Fragrances can include various toxins like phthalates, which are connected to reproductive disruption. Avoid synthetic fragrances by not buying toxic household cleaners. Instead, make your own natural cleaning products using baking soda, distilled vinegar, and essential oils. If you have to buy them, opt for products that are fragrance- and phthalate-free. (Related: Women who use cleaning chemicals found to be at higher risk of lung function decline.)
• Perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) – PFCs are often used to make non-stick cookware. These harmful compounds make products resistant to grease and water. PFCs can cause thyroid disease and they are also connected to reproductive issues involving hormone levels and sperm quality. Avoid PFCs by using cast iron or stainless steel pans.

Endocrine disruptors in food

• Dioxin – Dioxins are toxic carcinogens in bleached products and cigarette smoke. Dioxins are linked to “issues with both female and male sex hormones.” Additionally, dioxins can affect the immune system. It can be difficult to completely avoid dioxin since the U.S. food supply is heavily contaminated with this endocrine disruptor. It is usually found in dairy products, fish, and meat. Try to eliminate dairy from your diet and consume high-quality animal products like grass-fed and pasture-raised meat.
• Mercury – Mercury is linked to heavy metal toxicity, which is the major cause of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder. You can be exposed to mercury via fish or if you have amalgam fillings. Avoid mercury by skipping high-mercury fish like ahi tuna/yellowfin tuna, shark, and swordfish. Consult a dentist who specializes in the safe removal of mercury fillings.
• Pesticides – Often sprayed on produce, pesticides may cause endocrine disruption that can harm your thyroid. To avoid pesticides, buy organic produce whenever you can.
• Phytoestrogens – Phytoestrogens naturally occur in plants and can also be found in foods like flax seeds, legumes, oats, sesame seeds, and soy products. Phytoestrogens can act like hormones in the body because their chemical structure is similar to estrogen and may cause fertility issues. Avoid phytoestrogens by avoiding all soy-based products and legumes.

Many products contain endocrine disruptors but finding out what these products are can help you minimize exposure. You can also restore thyroid balance, boost endocrine health, and improve your overall health by opting for healthier and non-toxic alternatives to various products.

Read more articles with tips on how to avoid endocrine disruptors in the kitchen at Poison.news.

Sources include:

BlogPaleoHacks.com

MedicalNewsToday.com

Thyroid.org