The endocrine system is a collection of cells and glands that produce and release hormones. These hormones are chemicals that are released into the bloodstream and regulate many key processes. Anything that harmfully disrupts this process threatens the healthy functioning of the body.
Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) are everywhere. They mimic the body's hormones and disrupt natural processes, including growth and fertility. EDCs can be found in many of the products we use, like cleaning materials, personal hygiene products, plastics, fragrances and pesticides, to name but a few.
How do Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals disrupt the body?
EDCs disrupt the way the body's hormones naturally work – either by mimicking the hormone or blocking it altogether. The consequences can cause an increase or decrease in our natural hormones or alter hormone sensitivity.
This is a worry particularly in the long-term, as extended exposure (either by ingesting or skin contact) can affect the body's normal trajectory of growth, fertility and many other processes, particularly during key developmental periods (including fetal development, infancy and puberty).
Luckily, EDCs are normally only present in small concentrations and scientists are still researching the extent of their effects. The best way to avoid EDCs is to check the ingredients in the products you're habitually using and swap them out for evidence-based, safer alternatives.
What are common Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals?
EDCs may be closer to home than you realise. One look in your kitchen and bathroom cupboard may lead you to come across tupperware made with plastic using BPA, shampoo with parabens and suncream made with oxybenzone.
These chemicals are all endocrine disruptors, with BPA likely the most well-known example that's now widely regulated – it's now banned in packaging for products intended for children and infants. Though some still prefer to avoid them, parabens are considered safe at low levels and regulated to a maximum of 0.8% of a product's makeup. It's worth noting that not all EDCs act the same way – their effects depend on dose, timing and exposure.
We've discussed synthetic EDCs, but what about natural ones? Phytoestrogens, naturally found in soy, lentils, and whole grains, can interact with estrogen receptors but are not typically classified alongside harmful EDCs. Unlike the chemicals above, they're not considered detrimental to the body and normal dietary intake is considered safe and beneficial.
If you're unsure, check the labels of your toiletry and cleaning products before buying and where possible, try to reduce exposure. (Find a full list online here).
