How Do Xenoestrogens Affect Hormones?
When it comes to the mundane things in life—cleaning supplies, water bottles—many of us don’t think twice about our choices. But, in this case, it’s the little things that count. Unfortunately, these little things may be wreaking havoc on our bodies and causing hormone imbalances due to the toxins they contain called xenoestrogens.
WHAT ARE XENOESTROGENS?
Xenoestrogens are estrogen-like compounds found in our everyday environments. They come from chemicals: pesticides, herbicides, plastics, most processed foods (due to artificial additives, colourings, and preservatives), and many cleaning and personal care products. The majority of these chemicals have only been introduced into our environment in the last few decades.
They are classified as endocrine disruptors, meaning they disrupt the balance of our hormones. Once absorbed into the body, these powerful, harmful, unmetabolized estrogens outcompete the natural estrogen we make, elevating estrogen levels, and causing estrogen dominance. Hormonal acne, among many other symptoms, is the result. You can’t completely avoid xenoestrogens (these compounds can even be found in our tap water!), but you can take steps to reduce your exposure.
HOW TO AVOID XENOESTROGENS
CONSUME ORGANIC PRODUCE
These foods contain little or no herbicide or pesticide residues. If you don’t have access to organic fruits or veggies, use an all-natural cleaner before eating them.
AVOID PROCESSED FOODS
As a rule of thumb, look at the number of ingredients. Typically the more ingredients, the more processed it is.
AVOID PLASTIC CONTAINERS
Water bottles and food storage containers are major offenders. Investing in glass alternatives is an excellent, safe solution.
USE NATURAL PERSONAL CARE & CLEANING PRODUCTS
There's an increasing number of natural skincare and personal care products on the market. Everyday substances, such as green tea and apple cider vinegar, can also be used as effective skincare, while vinegar, baking soda, and hydrogen peroxide can be used as household cleaning alternatives.
FILTER YOUR TAP WATER
Tap water is often contaminated (with drugs, cleaning products, etc.) and treated with chemicals. The majority of basic, plastic-free filters cannot remove xenoestrogens entirely, but are effective at removing most contaminants as long as the filter is changed frequently.
In the world we live in, we are constantly exposed to substances that negatively impact our hormonal balance, especially when it comes to estrogen. Staying informed about where xenoestrogens can hide will help you make the best decisions for your hormonal health, so you can restore hormonal balance and heal your skin from within.
