How everyday household items can impact your hormones

Did you know that even seemingly harmless household products may contain chemicals that disrupt hormonal communication in the body? This article uncovers some of the most common endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) found in your home and how to minimise your exposure.

The impact of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) on your health

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are found in everyday household items and can interfere with your body's natural hormonal balance. These substances have been linked to fertility issues, PCOS, endometriosis, irregular menstrual cycles, and hormone-related cancers. Long-term exposure can contribute to metabolic issues, immune dysfunction, and developmental problems.

Understanding the endocrine system

The endocrine system consists of glands and organs responsible for producing hormones that regulate biological processes, including metabolism, reproduction, and brain function. The major components include the ovaries, testes, pituitary, thyroid, and adrenal glands, along with the hypothalamus and pancreas.

For the endocrine system to function properly, hormonal balance must be maintained. Disruptions can lead to issues such as weight gain, fatigue, infertility, and oestrogen dominance. Since many environmental factors can influence hormone production, it is crucial to reduce exposure to endocrine disruptors whenever possible.

Types of endocrine-disrupting chemicals

1. Bisphenol A (BPA) – A common but harmful chemical

BPA is a synthetic compound found in plastics and food packaging that can mimic oestrogen, leading to hormone imbalances. It has been linked to infertility, PCOS, oestrogen dominance, and an increased risk of breast cancer.

Common sources:

• canned food linings
• plastic food containers and water bottles
• thermal receipts

How to reduce exposure:

• Choose BPA-free and bisphenol-free products.
• Store food in glass or stainless steel containers.
• Avoid handling printed receipts or washing hands afterwards.

Detox support:

Antioxidants like glutathione, along with liver-supporting nutrients such as milk thistle and N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), can help the body detoxify from BPA exposure.

2. Phthalates – The hidden toxins in everyday products

Phthalates are chemicals used to increase the flexibility of plastics and enhance the longevity of fragrances. They can interfere with hormone production, particularly affecting reproductive health.

Common sources:

• scented candles, air fresheners, and perfumes
• plastic food packaging and vinyl flooring
• certain cooking oils (such as avocado oil without verified purity)

Ways to reduce exposure:

• Opt for fragrance-free personal care products.
• Choose glass or stainless steel storage over plastic.
• Verify the sourcing of oils and food products.

Detox support:

Calcium-D-glucarate and sulforaphane can help the body process and eliminate phthalates more efficiently.

3. Parabens – Synthetic preservatives that mimic oestrogen

Parabens are preservatives commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products. They can mimic oestrogen and contribute to hormonal imbalances, fertility concerns, and an increased risk of hormone-related cancers.

Common sources:

• skincare and beauty products
• haircare items (shampoos and conditioners)
• some processed foods

How to reduce exposure:

• Select paraben-free personal care items.
• Read ingredient labels for methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben.

Detox support:

Antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E can protect against oxidative stress caused by parabens. Diindolylmethane (DIM) supports oestrogen detoxification pathways.

4. PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) – The "forever chemicals"

PFAS are long-lasting chemicals that can remain in the body for years, disrupting hormone balance, immune function, and metabolism. They have been associated with increased cancer risk and reproductive health concerns.

Common sources:

• non-stick cookware (Teflon and similar coatings)
• stain-resistant and waterproof clothing
• tap water in some regions

Ways to reduce exposure:

• Use stainless steel or cast iron cookware instead of non-stick pans.
• Choose PFAS-free household products.
• Install a high-quality water filter.

Detox support:

Since PFAS accumulate over time, bile production support, glycine supplementation, and fibre-rich foods can help eliminate them. Sauna therapy may also assist in detoxification.

5. Glyphosate – The pesticide that interferes with hormones

Glyphosate is a widely used herbicide found in many non-organic foods. It disrupts amino acid pathways and can contribute to inflammation and hormone imbalance.

Common sources:

• non-organic fruits, vegetables, and grains
• processed foods
• drinking water (depending on the location)

Ways to reduce exposure:

• Prioritise organic produce and grains.
• Avoid genetically modified (GM) foods.
• Use water filtration systems to remove pesticide residues.

Detox support:

Supplementing with humic and fulvic minerals can help counteract glyphosate's effects. Probiotics may also support gut health, which is often impacted by glyphosate exposure.

Steps to reduce endocrine disruptors in your home

1. Go organic: Choose organic foods whenever possible to avoid pesticides and hormone-disrupting chemicals in food packaging.
2. Use safe cookware: Switch to stainless steel or cast iron cookware to avoid PFAS and other harmful coatings.
3. Eliminate plastic: Store food in glass containers and avoid plastic water bottles and food packaging.
4. Read product labels: Be aware of harmful chemicals in personal care, cleaning, and household products.
5. Filter your water: Install a high-quality water filtration system to reduce exposure to EDCs in tap water.
6. Minimise fragrance exposure: Avoid synthetic fragrances in candles, air fresheners, and beauty products.
7. Reduce dust and clean naturally: Dust frequently, use a HEPA-filter vacuum, and clean with non-toxic solutions like vinegar and baking soda.
8. Be mindful of receipts: Avoid handling printed receipts whenever possible, or wash your hands afterwards.
9. Choose safer clothing and furniture: Look for untreated, organic fabrics and materials free from flame retardants.
10. Use your purchasing power: Support brands and companies that prioritise non-toxic, endocrine-safe products.

A holistic approach to hormone health 

A functional medicine approach to hormone balance focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of imbalances rather than just treating symptoms. By assessing individual biochemistry, lifestyle, and environmental factors with the help of a nutrition professional, you can create personalised strategies to reduce toxic load and promote optimal hormone function.

Key strategies:

• Comprehensive testing: Evaluating hormone levels, toxin exposure, and detoxification capacity.
• Personalised nutrition plans: Incorporating organic, whole foods that support liver detox and hormone balance.
• Targeted supplementation: Using research-backed supplements to mitigate EDC exposure and promote hormonal health.
• Lifestyle interventions: Strategies to reduce environmental toxin exposure, improve sleep, and manage stress.

By understanding and minimising hidden environmental factors that disrupt hormone health, functional medicine empowers individuals to take control of their well-being and reduce the risk of hormone-related conditions.

Need personalised guidance?

If you're looking for expert support in navigating hormone health and reducing endocrine disruptors in your home, you should seek out a practitioner to create a tailored plan for a healthier, hormone-balanced lifestyle.

References:

• Rochester JR. (2013). Bisphenol A and human health: a review of the literature. Reproductive Toxicology, 42, 132-155.
• Meeker JD, Sathyanarayana S, Swan SH. (2009). Phthalates and other additives in plastics: human exposure and associated health outcomes. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 364(1526), 2097-2113.
• Darbre PD, Harvey PW. (2008). Paraben esters: review of recent studies of endocrine toxicity, absorption, esterase and human exposure, and discussion of potential human health risks. Journal of Applied Toxicology, 28(5), 561-578.
• Grandjean P, Clapp R. (2015). Perfluorinated alkyl substances: emerging insights into health risks. New Solutions: A Journal of Environmental and Occupational Health Policy, 25(2), 147-163.
• Mesnage R, Antoniou MN. (2017). Facts and fallacies in the debate on glyphosate toxicity. Frontiers in Public Health, 5, 316.
• Bergman Å, Heindel JJ, Jobling S, Kidd KA, Zoeller RT. (2013). State of the science of endocrine disrupting chemicals 2012. United Nations Environment Programme and the World Health Organization Report.