What are Hormone Disruptors and How You Can Avoid Them

Hormones are the conductors of the symphony that is our body, orchestrating every aspect of our appearance and health. Produced by glands within the endocrine system, these chemical messengers wield influence over our mood, cognitive function, energy levels, metabolism, and even our physical appearance. Much like the instruments in an orchestra, each hormone plays a distinct role, yet all must harmonize for optimal functioning.

To maintain a well-tuned body and mind, it's crucial to ensure that our hormones are balanced and in sync. In this article, we'll explore the fundamentals of key hormones that significantly impact both appearance and overall health.

Endocrine Disruptors (EDs) represent a discordant note in this symphony, posing a threat to hormonal harmony and, consequently, our well-being. These substances, found in everyday products ranging from personal care items to household chemicals, have the potential to mimic or interfere with natural hormones, disrupting essential bodily processes.

Below, we'll discuss ways for minimizing exposure to EDs and replacing them with healthier alternatives.

Testosterone, crucial for both male and female health, influences secondary sex traits, metabolism, mood, and energy levels. As we age, testosterone naturally declines, affecting vitality and body composition. Lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and sleep can help maintain healthy levels. In women, testosterone decreases gradually before menopause and significantly afterward, while men over 40 should monitor levels for optimal health. Testing hormone levels is advisable if experiencing symptoms like fatigue or mood swings, a consultation with a doctor is recommended for potential treatment.

Excess body fat causes your body to increase production of the enzyme aromatase. Aromatase converts testosterone into estrogen. The more fat you carry the more aromatase you produce which leads to more fat. It's a downward spiral for your health until you take appropriate action and reduce fat. Regular or significant alcohol use will dilute your testosterone. Consuming large quantities of polyunsaturated fats, especially vegetable oil. Lack of quality sleep (under 7- 8 hours for most people). Prolonged periods of stress elevate cortisol levels which counters testosterone as well as smoking. 

Estrogen is the primary female sex hormone. It affects the development and regulation of female secondary sex characteristics, (turning a girl into a woman). It has a meaningful impact on other body processes such as metabolism and fat storage. Estrogen is generally associated with being a female hormone however, men produce it in much smaller quantities. Women make it in the ovaries, adrenal glands, and fat cells and men produce it in the adrenal glands and fat cells. The more fat a person has, the more estrogen they usually have, and research indicates that the more estrogen a person has the more fat they tend to have. As with testosterone, the proper level of estrogen is important for overall health. Too much leads to fat gain and possibly other problems like breast cancer. Too little can result in psychological issues like depression and physical issues like osteoporosis and heart problems. With menopause, estrogen levels drop significantly, and some menopausal women benefit from estrogen replacement therapy. 

 

Foods that may impact estrogen levels

Foods that may have a Positive Impact

-Monounsaturated fats such as olive oil and avocados 

-Dietary fiber 

- Lean Protein 

Foods that may have a Negative Impact

-High levels of Saturated fats, polyunsaturated fats, soy products, oils, and foods made from soybeans, corn, cottonseed, and sunflowers 

-Consuming large amounts of complex starchy carbs and simple/refined carbs

 -Consuming large amounts of beer because of its high Hops content. 

Dopamine If it feels good keep doing it is the motto of the hormone dopamine. When you experience pleasure from eating tasty foods (especially sugary simple/refined carbohydrates) or having good sex or just the memory of these activities, your brain stimulates dopamine release. Elevated levels of dopamine make you feel good for a little while but fade quickly. The consistent eating of sugary foods results in dopamine levels spiking and then dropping resulting in cravings for more sugar, and ultimately more dopamine. For many, this cycle becomes addictive and is a major reason millions of Americans are overweight and diabetic. Eating healthier and gradually eliminating sugary foods helps overcome the addiction and stop the cravings.

Cortisol, a stress hormone from the adrenal glands, triggers the body's fight or flight response, preparing muscles, heart rate, and blood pressure for action. It aids in toxin removal and inflammation reduction. Prolonged elevation, often due to chronic stress, disrupts hormones like testosterone and insulin, leading to muscle breakdown, increased belly fat, and insulin resistance. High cortisol levels, caused by stress or genetic factors, can stimulate gluconeogenesis and myostatin release, hindering glucose transfer to muscles and causing blood sugar buildup, potentially leading to diabetes and other health issues. Understanding cortisol's role and mitigating stressors are vital for overall health.

Below are a list of potential hormone disrupting substances found in many common product used in day to day life and ways to avoid them and minimize contact.

Phthalates Are found in an incredible variety of many household products.They affect estrogen and testosterone. They are used in the process of making many plastics ranging from toys, medical devices and tubes, hoses, upholstery, shower curtains and food packaging. They are also found in almost any product that contain fragrances like dish soap, air fresheners and paper products. Because plastics and fragranced products are such a big part of life it is hard to totally avoid them but try because they are seriously bad. Research products ahead of time to try to avoid common phthalates like DEHP. Replace plastics with natural substitutes and avoid any product with "artificial fragrance " on the label. Look for natural alternatives. 

 

Parabens are among the most insidious of all EDs because they are found in common everyday so called "personal care" products (talk about a contradiction in terms) we use and rely on them every day. Parabens have been linked to having an effect on estrogen.  These include deodorants, antiperspirants, shampoo, toothpaste, shaving gel, lotions, sunscreen, and makeup. The skin is our largest organ and absorbs many of the chemicals that are put on it. These chemicals enter the bloodstream and accumulate over time because our bodies have no efficient process for eliminating them.  Recent studies have linked parabens to breast cancer. Examination of many patient’s breast tissues has revealed extremely high levels of parabens. Doctors who specialize in breast cancer and reconstructive surgery have noticed that women getting breast cancer are developing it younger and feel there might be a connection with parabens being applied via underarm deodorants and antiperspirants..

Bisphenol A (BPA). Is a chemical in widespread use in plastic and epoxy resins. BPA has been linked to birth defects, behavioral disorders, breast cancer, early puberty in girls, obesity and diabetes. Avoid it by minimizing the use of plastic containers, especially those labeled at the bottom on the recycle symbol #7 as well as # 3 and #6. Never heat plastic containers in the microwave . Try to eliminate plastic bottles by using stainless or glass. Don't leave plastic bottles and containers exposed to the sun or heat and don't reuse water bottles. Avoid canned goods, many of which are lined with it, and minimize using plastic wrap and handling thermal paper cash register receipts. Replace plastic food storage containers with "BPA Free or glass or ceramic. Use only BPA free plastic bags and containers like Ziploc Brand BPA free products. BPA is a known poison and It is amazing that the FDA still allows its use. 

Triclosan is known to disrupt estrogen and testosterone hormone levels in the body. It can interfere with the endocrine system's normal functioning, potentially leading to hormonal imbalances and related health issues. Triclosan is commonly found in various personal care products, including soaps, toothpaste, deodorants, and cosmetics, as well as household cleaning products such as hand sanitizers and dishwashing detergents. Additionally, it has been used in some textiles, plastics, and other consumer goods for its antimicrobial properties, although its use in these products has been reduced in recent years due to safety concerns.

Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QUATS): Testosterone

Ammonia is commonly found in household cleaning products such as glass cleaners, floor cleaners, and bathroom cleaners. It's also used in industrial applications, agriculture (as a fertilizer), and in some hair dyes. Additionally, it's a byproduct of biological processes and is naturally present in the environment, including in soil and water.

As you can see, hormones have profound influences on our health and well-being, in this article we only discussed a fraction of the complex hormonal system governing our bodies. In our book, "The Hot Body Handbook," we discuss a wider  range of hormones and their interactions, shedding light on how they influence our health, appearance, and overall vitality. Furthermore, we delve into the disruptive role of endocrine disruptors, providing insights into minimizing their effects and helping to maintain hormonal balance.