4 Ways To Cut Out Hormone Disruptors

There is a growing interest in understanding the connection between hormones and overall well-being, one thing becomes clear: hormone health is crucial for how we feel, think, and even what we choose to eat. It’s no secret that our mood often affects our food choices, and this is especially true when hormones are out of balance. Whether it’s stress, anxiety, or just feeling “off,” our emotions can drive us to reach for foods that may not align with our health goals.

For both men and women trying to optimize their health while dealing with hormone imbalances, making healthy food choices can be particularly challenging. It’s a frustrating cycle that can feel hard to break. Factors like stress, poor diet, exposure to hormone disruptors, and aging can all interfere with hormone production, leading to a frustrating cycle of low energy, mood swings, and difficulty making healthy choices. 

There are many factors that can disrupt our hormone function. Understanding what they are and how to minimize exposure can really help.

In this blog, I am sharing four simple steps you can take right now to reduce your exposure to hormone disruptors and support your body’s natural balance. But first, let’s discuss what hormone disruptors are.

What Are Hormone Disruptors

Hormone disruptors, also known as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), are natural or man-made substances that can interfere with your body’s endocrine system. The endocrine system is responsible for producing hormones that regulate crucial functions like growth, metabolism, reproduction, and your mood. When disruptors interfere, they can cause imbalances that may lead to a range of health issues from reproductive issues to metabolic disorders, these chemicals can lead to long-term health concerns that affect everything from mood to fertility. 

5 Ways Hormone Disruptors Affect Women & Men

5 Ways Hormone Disruptors Affect Women

1. Thyroid Dysfunction: EDCs can impact thyroid hormone production, resulting in conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, affecting metabolism, energy levels, and mood.
2. Weight Gain and Metabolic Disorders: Disruptors can lead to imbalances in how the body regulates energy, potentially contributing to obesity, insulin resistance, and diabetes.
3. Increased Cancer Risk: Some hormone disruptors are linked to hormone-sensitive cancers, such as breast and ovarian cancer, due to their ability to mimic or block estrogen and other hormones.
4. Mood and Cognitive Changes: EDCs may affect neurological development and mental health, potentially contributing to mood swings, anxiety, depression, and even conditions like ADHD.

5 Ways Hormone Disruptors Affect Men

1. Decreased Fertility and Testosterone Levels: EDCs can lower testosterone production and disrupt sperm quality, potentially leading to reduced fertility, low libido, and sexual dysfunction.
2. Increased Risk of Prostate Issues: Some hormone disruptors have been linked to a higher risk of prostate enlargement or prostate cancer by interfering with hormone regulation in the male reproductive system.
3. Metabolic Disorders: EDCs can disrupt insulin sensitivity and fat storage, increasing the risk of weight gain, obesity, and conditions like diabetes.
4. Thyroid Dysfunction: Similar to women, men can experience thyroid imbalances due to hormone disruptors, leading to problems with energy levels, metabolism, and mood.
5. Mood and Cognitive Effects: Disruptors can negatively affect mental health and cognitive function, potentially contributing to anxiety, depression, and issues with memory or focus.

Now, let’s talk about how you can reduce exposure to these sneaky chemicals.

1. Personal Care Products

Think about how many personal care products you use each day—shampoo, makeup, lotion, lip balm. Many of these products contain toxic chemicals that you’re putting directly on your skin, your body’s largest organ. Look out for common offenders like phthalates, parabens, and even ingredients hidden under the vague term “fragrance.”

To start cleaning up your routine, read the ingredients on your products. If you're not sure about a specific ingredient, the EWG Skin Deep database is a great resource to check for toxic chemicals. Better yet, consider switching to clean beauty brands like Crunchi, Honest, or ILIA, which offer products made without harmful substances. Be sure to read all the labels and ensure these products are safe for you and will meet your beauty needs.

2. Cleaning Products

It’s easy to overlook cleaning products when thinking about your health, but many popular brands are packed with chemicals that can disrupt your hormones. Household cleaners, air fresheners, and even laundry detergents can contain EDCs like BPA, phthalates, and PFAS.

When it comes to cleaning, brands like Branch Basics or Method offer safer alternatives. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even make your own!

3. Limit Plastic Food Containers

We all know plastic can be convenient, but did you know that many plastics contain chemicals that can leach into your food? BPA is one of the most well-known offenders, but it’s not the only one. Phthalates and PFAS are also common in plastic wraps, sandwich bags, and even food packaging.

To reduce your exposure, start storing food in glass containers and avoid heating food in plastic. Stainless steel water bottles are another great swap to make. If you can’t avoid plastic, look for options labeled BPA- and PFAS-free.

4. Choose Organic When You Can

Pesticides used in conventional farming can contain hormone disruptors that linger in your food long after it’s been harvested. While it’s not always possible to buy everything organic, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) publishes a list called the “Dirty Dozen,” which highlights the fruits and vegetables most contaminated by pesticides. They also show the “Clean 15” that show the lowest amounts of pesticide residues.

For meat, opt for grass-fed or pasture-raised options to avoid added hormones or pesticide contamination. 

‍‍

What Next?

Taking control of your hormone health doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By becoming aware of where hormone disruptors are hiding in your daily life, you can start making simple swaps that will reduce your exposure and help support your body’s natural balance. Begin by choosing one of these four steps and build from there. Your hormones, mood, and health will thank you! If are looking for support, accountability and knowledge to help you implement these changes, we're here to help!

‍

BOOK YOUR FREE DISCOVERY CALL TODAY! 

‍