TOXIC CHEMICALS TO AVOID: Lesson 4 - Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs)-Other Chemicals to Avoid

The endocrine system is a complex network of glands that produce and secrete hormones—chemical messengers that regulate numerous bodily functions. These functions include metabolism, growth and development, tissue function, sexual function, reproduction, sleep, and mood, among others. Major glands of the endocrine system include the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal glands, pancreas, ovaries, and testes. Proper hormonal balance is crucial for maintaining health.  Hormonal disruptions can lead to various health issues. ​

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are substances, either natural or synthetic, that can interfere with the endocrine system's normal functioning. They may mimic, block, or alter hormone levels, leading to a wide array of health problems.  According to the Endocrine Society, there are nearly 85,000 human-made chemicals in the world, and over 1,000 of those could be endocrine disruptors based on their unique properties. Here are some of the most common and well-studied EDCs:​

1. Atrazine

1. Found in: Widely used herbicide for crops like corn, sorghum, and sugarcane.​

2. Health concerns: Atrazine has been linked to disruptions in the reproductive system, including delayed puberty and altered ovarian function.

2. Bisphenol A (BPA)

1. Found in: Polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins; commonly in food and beverage containers, and the lining of canned goods.​

2. Health concerns: BPA can mimic estrogen, potentially leading to hormonal imbalances and associated health effects. ​

3. Dioxins

1. Found in: Byproducts of industrial processes like herbicide production and paper bleaching; also released during waste burning and wildfires.​

2. Health concerns: Exposure to dioxins can lead to reproductive and developmental problems, immune system damage, and interference with hormones. ​

4. Glyphosate

1. Found in: Broad-spectrum herbicide used in agriculture and residential weed control.​

2. Health concerns: Some studies suggest glyphosate may disrupt endocrine functions, particularly affecting reproductive hormones.

5. Perchlorate

1. Found in: Industrial chemicals used in rocket fuel, explosives, and fireworks; can contaminate groundwater.​

2. Health concerns: Perchlorate can impair thyroid hormone production by inhibiting iodide uptake, essential for thyroid function.

6. Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

1. Found in: Industrial applications, including firefighting foam, nonstick cookware, and water-repellent fabrics.​

2. Health concerns: PFAS exposure is associated with liver toxicity, reproductive disorders, and interference with hormone regulation. ​

7. Phthalates

1. Found in: Plasticizers (additive to make plastic more pliable) in products like food packaging, cosmetics, fragrances, children's toys, and medical devices.​

2. Health concerns: Phthalates are linked to reproductive, neurological, and developmental issues, including fertility problems and hormonal imbalances. ​

8. Phytoestrogens

1. Found in: Naturally occurring compounds in plants like soy; mimic estrogen in the body.​

2. Health concerns: While they have potential health benefits, excessive intake of phytoestrogens may disrupt endocrine function and affect reproductive health. ​

9. Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)

1. Found in: Flame retardants used in furniture foam, electronics, and textiles.​

2. Health concerns: PBDEs can disrupt thyroid hormone levels, impacting brain development and potentially leading to neurodevelopmental issues. 

10. Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)

1. Found in: Formerly used in electrical equipment, hydraulic fluids, and plasticizers; production banned in many countries.

2. Health concerns: PCBs can interfere with reproductive and thyroid hormones, leading to developmental and neurological problems. 

Minimizing exposure to these EDCs involves being mindful of product choices, opting for alternatives free from harmful chemicals, and supporting policies aimed at reducing environmental contamination.

MICROPLASTICS: What You Need to Know

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size, about the size of a sesame seed or smaller. They come from larger plastic items that break down over time, as well as from microbeads intentionally added to products. These particles are now everywhere: in the air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat and even inside our bodies.

Where Are Microplastics Found?

Microplastics are alarmingly widespread. Common sources include:

• Bottled water and tap water

• Seafood (especially shellfish and fish that consume microplastics in the ocean)

• Salt (particularly sea salt)

• Tea bags (especially nylon or plastic mesh ones)

• Food containers and wrappers

• Cosmetics and exfoliants (with microbeads)

• Laundry lint from synthetic clothing like polyester and nylon

• Household dust (from furniture, clothing, carpet, and packaging)

They’ve even been detected in placenta, lungs, and bloodstream in scientific studies.  This shows just how deeply embedded this problem has become.

What Microplastics Do to the Body

While research is still ongoing, early studies raise serious concerns of:

• Inflammation and oxidative stress due to the body’s response to foreign particles

• Hormonal disruption, as microplastics often carry endocrine-disrupting chemicals (like phthalates and BPA)

• Cell damage, particularly in gut and immune system cells

• Possible links to cancer and fertility issues, based on animal studies and early human data

Because microplastics can absorb toxic chemicals and carry them into the body, they may act as delivery systems for other contaminants as well.

How to Avoid Microplastics

While complete avoidance is nearly impossible, there are effective ways to drastically reduce your exposure:

• Use a water filter rated to remove microplastics (look for filters with “sub-micron” capabilities)

• Avoid plastic water bottles-opt for stainless steel or glass containers

• Don’t microwave, store, or freeze food in plastic

• Reduce packaged and processed foods-especially those wrapped in plastic

• Use reusable cloth bags, containers, and beeswax wraps instead of plastic

• Choose clothing and bedding made from natural fibers like organic cotton, wool, or hemp

• Avoid personal care products with microbeads, check the label for ingredients like polyethylene or polypropylene

• Vacuum with a HEPA filter and regularly dust your home to reduce microplastic-laden household dust

NOTE: To effectively reduce microplastics in your home, it's important to use a vacuum and air filter equipped with a True HEPA filter, not just one labeled as “HEPA-type” or “HEPA-like.” True HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are designed to capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, which includes microplastics, synthetic fibers, and fine dust that commonly accumulate in household environments. For even greater filtration, especially in allergy-sensitive homes, medical-grade HEPA filters like H13 or H14 can trap 99.95% to 99.995% of ultrafine particles, offering exceptional protection.

This distinction matters because many low-cost vacuums and purifiers advertise “HEPA-style” filters that fall far short of the official HEPA standard. These knockoffs may only capture larger particles and allow finer contaminants, like microplastics, to pass through and recirculate into your living space. Microplastic dust can originate from synthetic carpets, furniture, packaging, and even clothing, making it critical to vacuum and dust regularly using equipment that truly filters the air. By investing in a high-quality HEPA-rated vacuum and air purifier, you can significantly reduce your exposure to airborne microplastics and support a cleaner, healthier home environment.

Can You Get Microplastics Out of Your Body?

There’s currently no guaranteed “microplastic detox,” but you can support your body’s natural detoxification systems and limit further accumulation:

• Eat more fiber (promotes healthy bowel movements, which help eliminate contaminants)

• Stay hydrated to support kidney and liver function

• Eat antioxidant-rich foods (berries, leafy greens, turmeric, green tea) to combat inflammation

• Support gut health with probiotics and prebiotics

• Use Far infrared saunas (sweating may help eliminate certain toxins, though data is still emerging)

More research is needed, but reducing exposure while supporting detox pathways is the best strategy for now.

The Bottom Line: Microplastics are a silent but serious health threat. While you can’t avoid them completely, small changes in your shopping habits, food choices, and home environment can significantly reduce your exposure, and protect your long-term health.