Our modern world is packed with unseen chemicals that can disrupt our hormonal balance, affecting everything from mood to metabolism. When our hormones are being affected by everything from deodorant and pyjamas, to mattresses and paper receipts, it can feel like a minefield to unravel the impact of these chemicals.
But when even a small amount of endocrine-disrupting chemicals can throw off the delicate balance of our bodily functions, it’s a challenge we can’t ignore.
Here’s the lowdown on all things hormonal health and well-being, and how to steer clear of harmful chemicals…
The hidden impact of endocrine disruptors
Our hormones act as the body's internal communication system, regulating vital functions such as mood, energy levels, metabolism, and reproductive health. However, with such a pervasive amount of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in everyday items, this delicate balance is constantly under threat. These chemicals can mimic or interfere with natural hormones, leading to a spectrum of health concerns.
The research has shown that, while our bodies are designed to detoxify themselves, today’s environment is simply too overwhelmed by toxic chemicals for these natural detoxing processes to do their job properly.
Exposure to EDCs has been linked to issues like unexplained weight changes, fatigue, mood disturbances, sleep irregularities, and fertility challenges.
Women are most at risk of these disrupting chemicals, with the chemicals you most want to avoid being the ones that mimic estrogen in the body, known as xenoestrogens. Symptoms of long-term exposure to EDCs can include preterm birth, infertility, premature puberty, decreased immune function, metabolic changes that can then lead to diabetes and weight gain, neurological disorders, and even some cancers.
Women may also experience early perimenopause and increased rates of PCOS - all signs that our endocrine systems are being disrupted at unnerving levels.
What are endocrine-disrupting chemicals?
Unfortunately, endocrine-disrupting chemicals are everywhere - in our workplaces, our homes, our favourite skincare and household items. While it’s impossible to avoid them altogether, the first step is being aware of where they’re found, so you can make safer choices to reduce your exposure.
The following are common chemicals you should aim to avoid where you can.
Parabens
These are used as preservatives in cosmetics and personal hygiene products - think everything from skincare and shampoo, to makeup and deodorant. These are the ones that mimic estrogen and disrupt hormone balance, for women especially.
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances)
Also known as “forever chemicals,” these nasties essentially can’t break down like other natural substances. These are difficult for our bodies and environments to process and put us at risk of exposure for decades after creation. You’ll commonly find these in non stick cookware, stain repellents, waterproof clothing, long-wear cosmetics, and fast food packaging.
Flame retardants
As the name suggests, these are chemicals used to slow or prevent fires. These hidden EDCs affect our hormones and cause imbalances and potential developmental issues. You’ll find these in almost all furniture, upholstery, and mattresses - except natural organic mattresses and bedding brands - along with car seats, electronics, and children’s clothing and pajamas.
Phthalates
These EDCs are chemical solvents, which are commonly found in nail polish, makeup, new cars (yes, that’s what that ‘new car’ smell really is), soft plastics (including plastic wrap and kid’s toys/play mats), and artificial fragrances (watch for any cosmetics or candles that lists “fragrance” in the ingredients).
Because these phthalates have been shown to restrict the normal function of testosterone and induce early puberty, these are especially important to keep away from children - making it even more worrying, given how many children’s products they’re used in!
When it comes to avoiding these, look for products labeled "phthalate-free" or "PVC-free," check for the plastic recycling code 3 (which identifies PVC), and be wary of products containing "fragrance" or "parfum" on the ingredient list.
Glycol ethers
These EDCs are found in household cleaners we use all the time for the oven, floor, and glass windows/mirrors. They’re also used in paint and other cosmetics, and have been shown to affect fertility and increase the odds of suffering a miscarriage.
Atrazine
Atrazine is used in Australia as a herbicide for weed control in various crops like sorghum, maize, sugarcane, and canola, as well as in pine and eucalypt plantations. Due to agricultural run-off and pervasive use, this is another reason to aim for organic produce where possible, especially for these crops. Alarmingly, allowable levels of Atrazine in drinking water in Australia are 200 times higher than similar drinking water regulations in Europe, so filtered water is another step that can reduce risks.
Some studies suggest a possible link between atrazine exposure and an increased risk of certain cancers, including non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, breast, prostate, and ovarian cancers.
Pesticides
Along with Atrazine, organophosphate pesticides are used in a wide range of crops, as well as home gardens and in pest control, and can disrupt both hormonal health and the nervous system.
BPAs
BPA is commonly found in plastic containers and paper receipts, Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical used to make polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, found in food and beverage packaging, receipts, and baby bottles. BPA can leach from these products into food and beverages, so look for BPA-free labels and avoid packaging where possible, as well as removing things from their packaging and into safer alternatives after buying.
Chlorine
Chlorine is, of course, most known for its use in swimming pools, but it’s also found lurking in bleach, insecticides, paint, and even paper products. The risk of chlorine largely lies in how it can remove iodine from the body, which can disrupt thyroid function and testosterone production.
Steps to minimise EDC exposure
While the ubiquity of EDCs can be daunting, adopting mindful practices can significantly reduce exposure. Here’s our mainstay steps that help reduce exposure and support your long-term health.
Choose organic produce and filtered water
Opting for organic fruits and vegetables minimises ingestion of pesticides, common sources of EDCs. Similarly, using filtered water can reduce contaminants that may disrupt hormonal function.
Select natural personal care products
Transition to fragrance-free and natural personal care items to avoid chemicals like phthalates and parabens, known for their endocrine-disrupting properties.
Use eco-friendly cleaning solutions
Natural cleaners such as vinegar and baking soda effectively maintain cleanliness without introducing harmful chemicals into your home. We love a good DIY as it also saves money - something everyone could use right now.
Enhance indoor air quality
Regular ventilation, air purifiers, and houseplants can improve air quality, reducing the concentration of airborne EDCs.
Transforming your bedroom into a safe haven
Given that we spend approximately a third of our lives sleeping, the bedroom becomes a critical area to address in minimising EDC exposure. Conventional mattresses and bedding often contain synthetic materials treated with flame retardants and other chemicals that may release harmful substances over time.
Investing in bedding made from natural materials can significantly enhance your sleep environment.
Organic Cotton: Cultivated without harmful pesticides and fertilisers, organic cotton bedding offers a soft, breathable, and chemical-free sleep surface.
Wool: Naturally fire-resistant and moisture-wicking, wool helps regulate body temperature, ensuring comfort throughout the night. Organic wool quilts are particularly lovely during the winter months to support your sleep and body temperature.
Natural Latex: Derived from rubber tree sap, natural latex provides durable support and is inherently resistant to dust mites, making it ideal for allergy sufferers. Our organic latex mattresses allow you to get the sleep you’re craving with zero risk to your health - or your family’s health.
When selecting bedding, look for certifications such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and Oeko-Tex Standard, which ensure products meet stringent safety and environmental criteria.
The journey toward a healthier sleep environment
Reducing exposure to EDCs is a gradual process. By making informed choices about the products we bring into our homes, particularly in spaces like the bedroom, we take meaningful steps toward protecting our hormonal health and overall well-being.
Take small, meaningful steps and move at your pace. While we want to reduce exposure, the trick is not to burn out, but rather decrease EDCs in your orbit over time, with the long game firmly in mind.
