Hormone Disrupting Chemicals To Avoid

I know we all make a big effort to keep unnecessary chemicals out of our lives and homes – that’s one of the reasons why you read this newsletter and use our products. Getting the science to back up concerns about hormone disrupting chemicals such as bisophenol A, tricoslan and phthalates can be difficult as studies are released, then the chemical industry comes out with a study to refute it.

Endocrine disruptors are harmful substances found in our food, water and many common products. These chemicals can disrupt our hormones, creating potentially significant health risks. In an attempt to help us avoid these harmful substances The Endocrine Society reviews information constantly, and releases reports that I believe can be trusted.

Some time ago they convened a group of experts to review the state of the science on endocrinological effects of environmental contaminants that disturb hormonal systems, termed endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs).

This team conducted a thorough review of the extant literature up to that time (2008), and wrote an initial white paper (EDC-1) that was then developed into the landmark Scientific Statement on EDCs published in 2009. Since that time, numerous publications have emerged and a new report was published “EDC-2”

In short, the task force issued a statement on the harm that can come from hormone or endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDC’s). The report, released by the Endocrine Society, is based on a review of more than 1,300 studies. The research found mounting evidence to support a connection between these chemicals and health problems including:

Diabetes

Obesity

Heart disease

Infertility

Hormone-related cancers in women (breast, ovarian, endometrial)

Prostate cancer

Thyroid disorders

Neurodevelopmental issues in children

Obviously it is best to avoid hormone disrupting chemicals and keep everything in your home as natural as possible. One easy rule of thumb is if Nana wouldn’t recognise it then don’t use it!

For the full report click here

Along with tricoslan the top twelve chemicals to avoid (deemed by the Dirty Dozen by EWG) are:

BPA

Dioxin

Atrazine

Phthalates

Perchlorate

Fire retardants

Lead

Arsenic

Mercury

Perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs)

Organophosphate pesticides

Glycol Ethers

To find out more about these chemicals click here.