The Endocrine System Under Attack

The endocrine system is one of the most complex and important systems in our entire body. A network of glands, the system sends out hormones that act as messengers regulating virtually every internal process in the body.

• For example, the thyroid produces hormones for regulating metabolism, the pituitary gland regulates growth through the human growth hormone, and the pancreas secretes insulin and glucagon to regulate blood sugar.

The endocrine system functions with a series of receptors or locks that our hormones fit into on our cells. Unfortunately, there are a number of natural and manmade chemicals that mimic our hormones and act as endocrine disruptors, displacing our natural hormones in the cell locks and causing other irregularities.

• These endocrine disruptors interfere with the work of our endocrine system by blocking the pathway between a natural hormone and its receptor; causing a gland to make too much or too little of a hormone; or and mimicking a natural hormone, causing the body to overreact or react at the wrong time.

Endocrine disruptors can be found in our environment, food, personal care products, and manufactured products. Pesticides and herbicides often contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals that can cause harm to humans and animals.

• Scientific research is increasingly pointing to a link between endocrine disruptors and human health issues, including obesity and type 2 diabetes, endometriosis, decreased sperm count, and even cardiovascular disease, to name a few.

A few common endocrine disruptors to avoid:

• Bisphenol A (BPA). BPA, found in packaging and bottles, mimics estrogen and has been linked to obesity, heart disease, and early onset puberty. Avoid it by purchasing BPA-free bottles and packaging.

• Dioxins. Dioxins are by-products of industrial activity and are found in factory-produced meat and dairy. They disrupt sex hormones and have been linked to low sperm count in men. Avoid dioxin by buying organic produce and meat.

• Phthalates. Phthalates are found in plastic food containers and makeup products. Buy all-natural products and avoid anything that contains “fragrance.”

• Mercury. Mercury is naturally occurring in seafood. It can affect fetal brain development and has many negative effects on the endocrine system. Avoid factory farmed and choose wild seafood.

Other general ways to reduce your overall exposure to endocrine disruptors include:

• Eating whole or minimally processed foods.

• Avoid plastics wherever possible, storing food or leftovers in glass instead.

• Clean with vinegar and baking soda or buy “clean” cleaning products.

• Check the Environmental Working Group for the Clean 15 produce list and clean personal care products.

**Content provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is derived from information from Dr. Mark Hyman. It is not to be considered medical advice.**