Endocrine Disruptors: How They Impact your Health and How to Avoid Them

Every day, we’re exposed to chemicals that throw our hormones out of sync, often without realising it. Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that mimic, block or interfere with your body’s natural hormones, leading to weight gain, fertility struggles and sluggish metabolism.

These disruptors lurk in plastics, personal care products, pesticides and even drinking water. Research shows that exposure to endocrine disruptors is linked to obesity, thyroid disorders, reproductive issues and metabolic dysfunction.

Since these chemicals are hard to avoid completely, the key is to understand where they hide and take small, manageable steps to reduce exposure.

How endocrine disruptors affect your health

They disrupt metabolism and promote weight gain

If you’re struggling with stubborn weight gain, endocrine disruptors could be playing a role. These chemicals interfere with insulin function, making it easier to gain fat and harder to lose it. Some endocrine disruptors, known as obesogens, actively promote fat storage and disrupt how your body regulates weight. One study found that these chemicals alter fat cell development, leading to increased fat accumulation even when diet and exercise remain the same.

Common offenders like BPA and phthalates, found in plastics, reduce insulin sensitivity, causing blood sugar spikes, fat storage and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.

They interfere with reproductive hormones and fertility

Endocrine disruptors don’t just affect weight, they also wreak havoc on estrogen, testosterone and thyroid hormones. Research links them to irregular menstrual cycles, PCOS, endometriosis and fertility issues.

Parabens, commonly found in cosmetics, mimic estrogen, leading to hormonal imbalances that can worsen perimenopause and menopause symptoms. Phthalates, often found in plastics and fragrances, lower testosterone levels, affecting libido, energy and muscle mass in both men and women.

They slow down thyroid function and drain energy

Your thyroid regulates metabolism, energy and brain function, but certain endocrine disruptors block thyroid hormone production, leaving you feeling sluggish and foggy. BPA, perchlorates and heavy metals have been shown to lower thyroid hormone levels, which can lead to fatigue, brain fog and unexplained weight gain.

One study found that women with higher levels of BPA in their blood had significantly lower thyroid function, a key driver of slow metabolism and chronic fatigue.

They impact mood and brain function

If you’re feeling anxious, moody or struggling with concentration, endocrine disruptors could be part of the problem. Chemicals like phthalates, parabens and heavy metals interfere with brain chemistry and have been linked to anxiety, depression and even cognitive decline.

One study found that exposure to endocrine disruptors reduces serotonin and dopamine levels, which are crucial for regulating mood and motivation. Over time, these disruptions can lead to brain fog, difficulty concentrating and an increased risk of neurodegenerative conditions.

How to reduce exposure to endocrine disruptors

Choose safer food and water options

Filtering your drinking water is one of the best ways to reduce exposure to heavy metals, chlorine and pesticides. A high-quality reverse osmosis filter removes many of these hormone-disrupting chemicals.

Choosing organic produce and hormone-free animal products reduces exposure to pesticides like glyphosate, which has been linked to hormone disruption and metabolic dysfunction.

Ditching plastic food containers is another easy swap. Storing food in glass or stainless steel instead of plastic reduces exposure to BPA and phthalates, which leach into food, especially when heated.

Clean up your skincare and personal care routine

Many beauty and personal care products contain endocrine disruptors like parabens, phthalates and synthetic fragrances. Checking ingredient labels and switching to natural, non-toxic brands can make a big difference.

Opting for fragrance-free or naturally scented products helps avoid hidden hormone-disrupting chemicals. Choosing deodorants, shampoos and lotions free from parabens and phthalates and selecting brands that use glass or biodegradable packaging instead of plastic can further reduce exposure.

Rethink household products

Household cleaning products, air fresheners and scented candles often contain volatile organic compounds that interfere with hormone balance. Switching to natural cleaning alternatives like vinegar, baking soda and essential oils can lower your exposure.

Non-stick cookware is another hidden source of endocrine disruptors. PFAS, commonly known as forever chemicals, are found in non-stick coatings and have been linked to thyroid dysfunction and immune system disruption. Replacing non-stick cookware with stainless steel or cast iron is a safer alternative.

Minimise plastic use and avoid BPA

Microwaving food in plastic accelerates the leaching of BPA and other hormone-disrupting chemicals. Even BPA-free plastics may contain harmful substitutes like BPS, which can be just as bad. Using glass storage containers is the best alternative.

Key supplements to support detoxification

Reducing exposure is important, but certain nutrients can help your body detoxify endocrine disruptors more effectively. Magnesium and taurine support liver detox pathways, helping to clear hormone-disrupting chemicals. 

Cruciferous vegetables and DIM (Diindolylmethane) aid in processing excess estrogen from endocrine disruptor exposure. Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation caused by toxins, while activated charcoal or bentonite clay binds to certain toxins and helps remove them from the body.