04/01/2025
The effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals are complex. Ubiquitous chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, dioxins and flame retardants are found in everyday household products and are increasingly linked to human health problems.
Endocrine disruptors mimic the action of naturally-produced hormones such as estrogen or testosterone, block cellular hormone receptors, and affect hormone synthesis, transport, and metabolism, altering natural hormone concentrations.[1-3]
Follow these tips to reduce the impact of endocrine disruptors on your health:[4]
- Consume fresh and certified organic foods
- Avoid plastic containers, bottles and packaging
- Avoid canned food and drinks
- Choose low-tox personal care products
- Remove dust from the home
- Avoid non-stick cookware
[1] Fowler P et al. Impact of endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) on female reproductive health. Mol Cell Endocrinol. 2012;355(2):231-239. doi: 10.1016/j.mce.2011.10/-21.
[2] World Health Organization, United Nations Environment Programme. State of the Science of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals - 2012. Available from www.who.int
[3] Andersson AM et al. Endocrine disrupters: We need research, biomonitoring and action. Andrology. 2016;4:556-60. doi: 10.1111/andr.12244.
[4] Corbett GA et al. Nutritional interventions to ameliorate the effect of endocrine disruptors on reproductive health: a semi structured review from FIGO. Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2022;157(3):489-501. doi: 10.1002/ijgo.14126.
