Endocrine Disruptors: Just Say, No

There’s a lot of buzz in the women’s health community about endocrine disruptors and insulin resistance and the impact they can have on how your body functions.

Endocrine Disruptors (EDCs) are chemicals that interfere with the endocrine system. A recent article published by the National Institute of Health states insulin resistance (IR), “occurs when cells become less responsive to insulin…EDCs are a diverse group of synthetic and natural chemicals that can interfere with the endocrine system’s normal function…these disruptors can mimic or block hormones in the body, leading to hormonal imbalances.”  

Research is making the connection between EDC and IR with women’s health problems including reproductive disorders, Type 2 diabetes, metabolic disorders including thyroid dysfunction, certain cancers, and obesity.  A very interesting standout in the research found that there are gender differences specific to estrogenic effects.  The reason is that women typically use more products that include chemicals such as triclosan (TSC), which is a common ingredient found in over-the-counter products with direct exposure via oral and transdermal pathways. This includes toothpaste, makeup, and soaps.  

And a 2019 article by Science Direct stated: “There is considerable evidence (which) showed that EDCs can alter female reproductive development, fertility, and the onset of menopause.”

Ladies, be sure to read labels and eliminate these products containing these chemicals from your household. In fact, you can look up products using words like “clean” and utilize the EWB Skin Deep database which is an excellent resource.

Foods can also be EDCs and include soy, dairy, sugar, alcohol, red meat, processed food, dye. It cannot be stressed enough to read your food labels.

Kelly Rigo is the creative force behind Menopause Evolution.