What’s an endocrine disruptor and why you should care
Endocrine-disruptor is a big phrase, what does it even mean? They are chemicals that essentially mess with our body’s internal hormones which can potentially cause major health concerns. Anyone struggling with hormone balances should be cognizant. Even if you’re not though, these endocrine-disrupters can be toxic. The Environmental Working Group has a list of twelve of these chemicals to watch out for and potentially how to avoid them. I’ve listed the EWG twelve out below:
BPA
Dioxin
Atrazine
Phthalates
Perchlorate
Fire retardants
Lead
Arsenic
Mercury
Perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs)
Organophosphate pesticides
Glycol Ethers
As it turns out even late night personalities like John Oliver are taking note. In October 2021, Oliver did his entire show on PFAs (one of the PFCs).
That’s right endocrine-disruptors are in everything. From floss, to waterproof clothes to your non-stick cookware. That’s why we need to begin eliminating these troublesome hormone altering chemicals from our environments as we begin heal.
I still can’t believe floss can be toxic. According to the Harvard School of Public Health: “These chemicals have been linked to liver damage, harm to the immune system, developmental issues, and cancer, and can persist in people’s bodies and in the environment for many years.” People who used Oral B Glide floss had more perfluorohexane sulfonic acid in their bloodstream than those who didn’t use it.
My top 5 endocrine disrupting items to switch out in your life are below:
Receipts (yes, the ones you get from the grocery store). Thermal receipts are very problematic. Don’t take them, or wash your hands immediately after
Cleaning products. Either make your own using vinegar, rubbing alcohol and dish soap, or buy some that are hormone friendly. Environmental Working Group has a guide to good cleaners.
Makeup and Skincare. Environmental Working Group also has a guide “Skin Deep Database” where you can search for your products.
Those pans in the kitchen that are non-stick? Time to say goodbye. Only use cast iron or stainless steel pots and pans. Did you know you can make a stainless steel pan nonstick? It’s a thing that cooks do! Check out this Epicurious article on how to accomplish just that.
Floss—It’s time to start reading labels folks. Oral B Glide is no good. The coating that makes it so great for your teeth is also problematic for hormones and health.
