Endocrine disruptors

Have you heard this term before? Have you asked what the hell does it mean? It is a huge topic nowadays because of all the chemicals we have all around us. Let’s dive in a little and get to know what an endocrine disruptor is.

First off what is Endocrine? Well Endocrine is a system within our body that regulates our hormones. It is made up of eight major glands that secrete chemicals. It sends out signals throughout the body to tell it to do something. It usually takes a few hours or a few weeks. It is not an immediate signal and response like our nervous system. Just about every cell and organ is affected by the Endocrine system

What is a Endocrine Disruptor? It’s a synthetic chemical that when it absorbs into the body either mimics or blocks hormones and disrupts the body’s normal function.

When we have too much or too little of certain hormone in our body, our body reacts in certain ways and dis-ease can occur. One of the most common is Diabetes. As women there are other issue that can occur if our endocrine system is not working properly. Our reproductive system is highly sensitive to hormone disruptors.

While things like, stress, infection, lack of sleep, low electrolytes, a diet in processed foods/ high sugar, and lack of movement can effect the Endocrine system, what you put in and ON your body has a big effect.

Endocrine disruptors are things like

• pesticides

• insecticides

• herbicides

• Health and beauty products

• fumigants

• detergents

• resins

• plastics

• contaminated water, food or air

• Working in a toxic environment

• Carpet off gassing

• Air fresheners

  I can go on with the list but you get the picture. On of the biggest things to help yourself can be to look at what you are putting into your mouth and on your skin. It is not just the air we breathe and the food we eat, our skin is our first line of defense and a lot of the beauty products have many endocrine disrupting chemicals in them. Opt in to looking for more natural products.

  The more that we pay attention to the things that create havoc with our hormones the better off we will be. Every little bit counts. Think of the accumulation of products you use and the places you work and shop at. We cannot get away from it. Reduction is key. Just aim at reducing your exposure. It all adds up.

  You can start by finding a better skin cream for your body. Then maybe add in a little bit of clean foods into your diet. Look at how often you are exposed to chemicals. For instance, I used to work at a dental office. I cannot tell you how many chemicals are in those places. I had to use chemicals to clean all day long. I am surprised I have a handle on my hormones. I am sure glad I am not there anymore.

  I know we cannot be perfect, but we do have to get a better handle on our hormones. Reducing as many disruptors as possible will help in creating a better environment for your whole body. Let me know how you make out. Drop me an email if you have any questions.

Love and Light