How everyday toxins disrupt hormones – and simple ways to avoid them.
Sacramento, Calif.- You may have heard of Hormone-Disruptors, these are endocrine disrupting chemicals, which impact our hormones, also known as “Obesogens.” As the name suggests, they can trigger obesity, and are common contaminants in food, water and air.
There are many different Obesogens, but here are some of the more common ones to look out for:
Atrazine- an herbicide allowed in the United States that can decrease Testosterone and increase Estrogen. Atrazine can lower LH (luteinizing hormone), which is associated with sexual development and function. Excess exposure to Atrazine can be associated with chronic diseases like diabetes, cancer, birth defects and disabilities. Gestational diabetes risk in pregnant woman is also linked to Atrazine.
BPA– often in plastics and canned food. BPA is associated with chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure. BPA’s are often found in newborns, children and adults, and can be measured in blood, urine, saliva, breast milk, and fatty tissue.
Glyphosate– a n herbicide and active ingredient in many weed-killer products, which has severely impacted the following crops: almonds, beets, canola, corn, oats, soy, and especially, wheat. Glyphosate is linked to various types of cancer, reproductive issues, kidney disease, and can disrupt the entire microbiome.
Organotins– industrial compounds often used as PVC stabilizers, antifouling paints and pesticides. One known as tributylin (TBT) is an antifungal in paints often used for boats and ships, which also deters marine organisms. This means, it is released into the waters and often deposited into sediments, contaminating many bodies of water. Organotins are mutagenic and carcinogentic obesogens that are toxic to the liver, kidneys and nervous system.
Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA)– a surfactant used in waterproof clothing, nonstick cookware, stain repellant, and microwavable food items. PFOA is used to make heat, oil, stain, grease, and water-resistant products. Our main source of exposure is contaminated water sources. Once exposed, PFOAs stay in our bodies for prolonged periods of time. PFOAs upregulate fat metabolism, increasing insulin, leptin and body weight.
Phthalates– found in many plastics, food packaging, solvents, certain textiles, cosmetics and personal hygiene products. They have been found in high amounts in over 75% of the U.S. population, including children. Phthalates are associated with diabetes, obesity, fertility issues and impaired brain development in children.
How to reduce your exposure to Obesogens:
- Choose organic foods- especially fruits, vegetables, rice and wheat
- Eat Grass-fed wild meats
- Choose organic cosmetics and personal care products
- Avoid heating up food in plastic or drinking hot beverages from plastic
- When using plastic containers, choose ones that are BPA-free, BPS-free, and phthalate free
- Use stainless steel, cast iron or glass containers over plastic for food and drinks
- Avoid nonstick pans
- Drink only filtered water
- Use a HEPA filter for indoor air filtering
Of course it may be impossible to avoid obesogens completely, but these are some ways to drastically reduce your exposure. May they serve you.
Explore additional topics from Sacramento Naturopathic Medical Center with Dr. Godby, ND, MA and his team at Natural Wellness.
As a naturopathic doctor for the last 20 years, I have witnessed the power of a preventative lifestyle and naturopathic medicine to transform the health and lives of thousands of patients.
Sacramento Naturopathic
2530 J Street, Suite 100
Sacramento, CA 95816
Phone: (916) 446-2591
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