Once we hit 40 we are constantly thinking of menopause symptoms and our hormones. There is one thing we are not thinking of during this time….hidden hormone disruptors all around us.
Did you know that there are many hidden hormone disruptors in items you use everyday? This can cause even more of an imbalance in your hormones without even knowing the impact they are causing within your body.
Menopause is a major transition period in a woman’s life, signifying the end of her reproductive years. This phase is often distinguished by several hormonal changes starting in perimenopausal and then through menopause and even after.
Unfortunately, this transitional journey can be further complicated by external factors like hormone disruptors. Understanding these surprising adversaries becomes crucial in successfully navigating through through menopause and beyond.
What are Hormone Disruptors?
Often referred to as endocrine disruptors, hormone disruptors are substances that interfere with the normal functioning of the body’s hormone system. They either mimic the body’s natural hormones like as estrogens (female sex hormones), androgens (male sex hormones), and thyroid hormones, leading to overstimulation. Alternatively, they can also block hormonal impact, culminating in a hormonal imbalance
How They Impact Menopause
During menopause, the body’s natural production of estrogen and progesterone decreases. Yet, exposure to endocrine disruptors can artificially inflate or deflate these levels, causing symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and weight gain to become more intense or prolonged. This can additionally disrupt the natural course of menopause, leading to various health issues like osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, and even certain types of cancer. (1)
Usual Suspects: Hormone Disruptors in Everyday Items
Endocrine disruptors are usually found in everyday items, including:
- Bisphenol A (BPA): Commonly found in plastic containers and canned food linings.
- Phthalates: These are used in a wide variety of products, including personal care products, plastics, and vinyl flooring.
- Parabens: Commonly used as a preservative in cosmetics and personal care products.
- Pesticides: Many pesticides have been identified as potential endocrine disruptors.
- PFAS chemicals: This synthetic chemical is found in many nonstick cookware, food wrapping, carpet stain repellent, and has been found in drinking water supplies. It has been linked to weakening your immune system, liver damage, endocrine disruption, and thyroid disease. (2)
Ways to Minimize Exposure
Luckily, there are steps you can take to minimize your exposure to hormone disruptors:
- Prefer glass or stainless-steel containers over plastic ones.
- Opt for fresh or frozen produce instead of canned to evade BPA.
- Seek out ‘paraben-free’ and ‘phthalate-free’ labeled cosmetics and personal care items.
- Choose organic produce when feasible to avoid pesticides.
- Consider a home water filtration system with activated carbon filters to minimize PFOA and other PFAS contaminants.
- Avoid using non-stick cookware or bakeware at high heat or broiling.
Maneuvering through menopause and beyond with the added obstacle of hormone disruptors could be daunting.
But by being proactive about reducing your exposure to these disruptors and adopting preventative measures, maintaining a balanced lifestyle, and staying informed, you can have a smooth journey at any stage of your life.
Remember, your health is in your hands!
You ARE able to THRIVE and live your BEST Life in Midlife, Menopause, and Beyond!
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