What better way to kick off the TWS blog than with a topic I am so passionate about. Let the games begin!

Let’s get all science-y for a sec, mmkay?

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals, otherwise known as EDCs or hormone disrupting chemicals, can wreak some serious havoc in our endocrine system, and it doesn’t take much for them to do it.

According to the EPA, “The endocrine system, made up of all the body's different hormones, regulates all biological processes in the body from conception through adulthood and into old age, including the development of the brain and nervous system, the growth and function of the reproductive system, as well as the metabolism and blood sugar levels. The female ovaries, male testes, and pituitary, thyroid, and adrenal glands are major constituents of the endocrine system.”

So basically, EDCs are going to stir things up for your sex, metabolic AND stress hormones.

And how do they do that? In a couple of different ways!

• By mimicking hormones (but not in a good way)

• By stimulating over or underproduction of hormones

• By blocking a hormone’s ability to do its job

And it takes the tiniest amount, like nanoparticles, of EDCs to do some damage.

Xenoestogens are some of the major players here and can be found in your personal care products, cleaning products and even some household items. A xenoestrogen mimics estrogen which can then lead to excess estrogen in the body (think heavy or painful periods, unwanted weight gain, fibroids).

The imbalance that EDCs are linked to when it comes to hormones like estrogen, cortisol and thyroid, can lead to bigger problems for you down the road such as premature puberty or menopause, period problems, fertility struggles, thyroid problems, reproductive cancers and more.

Let’s chat about a few of the most common EDCs:

BPA (bisphenol A)
BPA is commonly found in plastics - bottles, food containers, bags, baby toys, as well as the lining of metal cans

BPA has been linked to disruptions in both thyroid and estrogen levels and has been associated with fertility struggles, insulin resistance and even breast cancer.

Also: BPA free doesn’t always = safe.

Fragrance:
Ever seen fragrance listed on an ingredient list, even for something that’s supposed to be unscented? Fragrances can be made up of hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that don’t have to be disclosed to you due to “trade secret” protection. Most of the chemicals found in fragrance are synthetic and derived from petroleum products (btw, petroleum is also used to make gasoline).

Fragrances have been linked to hormone imbalances, cancer, allergies & skin issues, headaches, and respiratory issues.

Teflon (PFC/PFA/PFE):
While teflon and its associates are most commonly found in non-stick cookware, they can also be found in waterproofing, food packaging, and MAKEUP. Yup, you could essentially be putting non-stick coating right on your face.

These compounds have been associated with thyroid disease, cancer and developmental defects.

For a complete list of EDCs, I recommend checking out the EWG. Their site and Healthy Living app are a great tool if you’re curious about the products you’re using.

So how can you start lowering your toxic burden?

While it’s nearly impossible to go 100% non-toxic due to environmental exposures and things that are just out of your control, you can start by replacing the products and items that you do have control over. This doesn’t have to be a mega expensive, giant overhaul of everything in your life. Start small by replacing one product at a time as it runs out. Deodorant running low? Grab a new, aluminum-free stick. Mascara starting to dry out? Replace it with a less toxic option. Laundry detergent almost gone? Time to retire that brand.

Other ways you can lessen your toxic load:

• Avoid storing or heating food in plastic containers or drinking from plastic water bottles. Opt for glass or stainless steel.

• Stick to organic fruits & veggies (if and when you can). A gentle rule of thumb - if it doesn’t have a peel that can be removed, try to buy organic. As long as the price is right! Give your peel-less fruits and veg a good scrub under running water whether they’re organic or not.

• Opt for an e-receipt whenever possible. Printed store receipts typically contain BPA.

• Choose chlorine, fragrance and pesticide free, organic cotton feminine care products like tampons and pads.

Are you feeling overwhelmed or worried about your toxin exposure and what steps you can take to lower it? Download my FREE ebook - A Less Toxic Lifestyle for all the tips and tricks to lowering your toxic body burden through nutrition and lifestyle.

Thank you SO much for checking out the very first post of the TWS blog. I am thrilled to be able to offer you more knowledge, tips and fun info about all things hormones and women’s health.