What are endocrine disruptors?

Every day we are in contact with invisible chemical substances that we inhale, ingest and apply to our skin. Plastic packaging, our clothes, cosmetics… many of them contain toxins that have been shown to be harmful to our bodies.

These are known as endocrine disruptors and they disrupt our hormonal system in the long term. In some cases, these imbalances can trigger metabolic problems, fertility issues, and even disease.

Although the effects of EDs on health are real, social media has become a whirlwind of alarmist content and warnings about them. But how do they affect us, and how can we avoid them? 

The endocrine glands 

Many of our body’s processes are regulated by hormones, substances that are produced by glands and distributed throughout the body. These are linked to growth, development, immunity, metabolism, reproduction, and behavior.

These are the glands in our body: 

In total, the Endocrine Society estimates that there are 23 main hormones in our body, including testosterone, oestrogen, serotonin and progesterone. When hormones are balanced, they help the body develop properly. However, when they come into contact with EDs, a hormonal imbalance occurs that affects the body.

The most common endocrine disruptors 

There are many toxic substances hidden in the products we buy and consume. These are some names we should avoid on product labels:

Pregnancy is one of the most sensitive stages to exposure to these chemicals. A study led by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health has found that prenatal exposure to EDs increases the likelihood of developing metabolic syndrome during childhood. This syndrome includes health problems such as abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, and insulin resistance. For this reason, it is important to understand how to limit exposure to endocrine disruptors in order to reduce their possible long-term effects.

How can endocrine disruptors be avoided at home? 

The risk posed by endocrine disruptors depends on the amount and the duration of exposure. In this sense, simultaneous exposure, even at very low doses, may cause more severe effects than exposure to a single substance.

To reduce contact with these compounds, it is advisable to take preventive measures in the home environment. These are some of the recommendations from the European Society of Endocrinology and the Spanish Society of Primary Care Paediatrics to limit chemical exposure at home:

• Avoid buying plastic containers and bottles, and do not heat them in the microwave. Glass or ceramic are healthier, more environmentally friendly, and less toxic alternatives.
• Use cookware made of stainless steel, glass, or ceramic. Avoid Teflon and non-stick coatings.
• Choose kitchen utensils made of wood. 
• Buy personal care and cosmetic products free from fragrances, parabens, and other endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
• Avoid using perfumes or air fresheners and look for safer alternatives.
• Avoid buying fast fashion and opt for natural fabrics free from toxic substances.
• Wash fruit and vegetables thoroughly and reduce the consumption of ultra-processed foods.
• Ventilate indoor spaces daily to prevent the accumulation of endocrine disruptors in the air.
• Check product labels carefully before buying. 
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle, with a balanced diet and regular physical activity.

In conclusion 

Every day we are surrounded by substances that disrupt our endocrine system. Some of them, such as airborne particles or vehicle emissions, are unavoidable.

However, a large proportion of endocrine disruptors are hidden in our homes, and these can be avoided. With small changes in daily habits, it is possible to significantly reduce exposure to harmful substances and maintain a healthier lifestyle.