Are you looking to live a more holistic lifestyle but you’re unsure where to start? I’ve got two words for you: Endocrine Disruptors. 

In this episode, you’ll get a crash course on endocrine disruptors… what they are and why you should avoid them. I’ll start by breaking down how they impact your health and contribute to hormone imbalances linked to PMS, PCOS, infertility, breast cancer, birth defects, thyroid disorders, and so much more. 

This episode isn’t intended to fear monger, it’s intended to empower. I’ll also be giving you ten actionable steps you take right now to limit your family’s exposure to these toxins. 

My goal is for you to walk away from this episode feeling educated and confident in how to take your health into your own hands.

IN THIS EPISODE, I’LL DIVE IN TO:

• Why I chose endocrine disruptors as my first podcast topic

• WHAT an endocrine disrupting toxin is and WHY it should be avoided

• My motto: 80% do your best, 20% live your life

• The documentary ‘Stink’ & how it can open your eyes to the health hazards that come with corporate greed

• Scientific data linking these toxins to a ton of health issues, like infertility, cancer, thyroid disorders and more

• 10 things you can do to limit your exposure to these toxins

What Are Endocrine Disruptors?

Endocrine disruptors are substances that interfere with the body’s endocrine system—the network of hormones that regulate growth, metabolism, reproduction, mood, and overall health.

Endocrine disruptors can:

• Mimic natural hormones, like estrogen or testosterone
• Block hormones from binding to the receptors they’re meant for
• Alter how hormones are produced, transported, or broken down
• Disrupt communication between glands in the endocrine system

These disruptions can lead to issues with:

• Fertility
• Thyroid function
• Metabolism
• Immune response
• Development
• Neurological health
• Hormonal imbalances
• Early puberty
• Weight gain
• Certain cancers (hormone-related)

And yes, several studies show the negative effects of endocrine disruptors. This isn’t something new or trendy that random “health experts” online are telling you to avoid. This is a real thing that needs to be avoided.

Endocrine disruptors show up in everyday products and you might not even realize it. Some examples are:

• Plastics
• Personal care and beauty products
• Cleaning products
• Pesticides
• Non-stick cookware
• Food packaging
• Flame retardants

Even tiny exposures can have effects because hormones work in extremely small amounts. And exposures often come from multiple sources, creating a cumulative effect. That’s how it becomes an issue.

TOP 10 THINGS YOU CAN DO TO LIMIT YOUR EXPOSURE

#1: FILTER YOUR WATER

Endocrine disruptors are found in your tap water and the best way to avoid them is to filter your drinking water.

#2: DUST AND VACUUM OFTEN

It seems like such a simple thing, but endocrine disruptors can attach to dirt and dust, so cleaning can help a lot.

#3: SWAP YOUR TOXIC CLEANING PRODUCTS

I literally just told you to clean your house more, but conventional cleaners are a main culprit when it comes to toxins, so make sure you are using safe, toxin free cleaning products.

#4: AVOID SYNTHETIC FRAGRANCES

Synthetic fragrances like room sprays, plugs in, perfumes, candles, and many of your personal care products contain hormone disrupting toxins. Shop safe fragrance when possible.

#5: LIMIT EATING OR DRINKING FROM PLASTIC

This is especially true for food. Swap all your plastic Tupperware for glass or stainless steel.

#6: DON’T COOK WITH NON-STICK PANS

Conventional non-stick pans use PFAS chemicals to make them non-stick. Stick with stainless steel or other toxin free alternatives.

#7: TRY AND LIMIT FAST FOOD PACKAGING

Fast food packaging is often coated with PFAS, which is endocrine disrupting. If you order fast food, remove it from the packaging as soon as you can.

#8: BUY ORGANIC FRUITS & VEGETABLES WHEN POSSIBLE

Many pesticides and herbicides are also endocrine disruptors. Choose organic produce when you can.

#9: AVOID ANYTHING SPRAYED WITH A FLAME RETARDANT

This can be a tough one. But children’s pajamas, car seats, mattresses, and furniture are the main culprits. You’ll have to do your research and ask your companies.

#10: LEARN HOW TO READ LABELS

Learn how to read labels, spot the most toxic toxins and prioritize slowly swapping what’s in your home.

BONUS!!! Download the Tossing the Toxins Roadmap to learn the first five steps in detoxing your home.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• Stink Documentary

• Berkey Water Filter

• Air Doctor Air Purifier

CONNECT WITH ME:

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IF YOU ENJOYED THIS WEEK’S EPISODE, PLEASE:

• Leave a positive review or rating wherever you listen
• Shop toxin-free products on my Toxin Free Shopping Guide
• Download your free Tossing the Toxins Guide
• Post a screenshot, what you loved, and tag me on Instagram @wendy_toxinfreeish
• Want to ask me a question to get answered on the podcast? Leave me a voice message here.

Related Episodes:

Episode 20: Balance Your Hormones Naturally with Dr. Erin

Episode 28: Going Toxin Free on a Budget: The Power of Non Toxic Living

Episode 47: What is a DUTCH Hormone Test and Why Do You Need One? With Dr. Erin