Avoiding Endocrine Disruptors

Endocrine dispruptors are chemical compounds that we come in contact with on a daily basis. What do they do? They can cause hormonal imbalance. These are things like BPAs, Phthalates, Heavy Metals and Pesticides, just to name a few. While it's nearly impossible to avoid them completely, hopefully some of these suggestions will help reduce your exposure.

• Cash register receipts are a known endocrine disruptor. If the cashier asks if I want my receipt emailed or printed, I choose emailed whenever possible. If it's winter and I need a receipt printed, I put my gloves on first.

• Instead of drinking out of plastic water bottles, use stainless steel or glass. (Even "non BPA" plastic can be toxic, so it's best to avoid plastic all together). This is my favorite water bottle: https://amzn.to/3Y1hujp

• Instead of using plastic cutting boards (think microplastics), use wood, bamboo or titanium. I like these: https://amzn.to/4jvKsQy

• You should especially avoid heating plastic. So if you're using coffee pods, you can replace them with this: https://amzn.to/3Gbmv2L

• Instead of scented candles and scented "plug-ins", diffuse essential oils. Some oils are not safe around young kids or pets, so use caution. You can get 10% off diffusors on my online dispensary: https://us.fullscript.com/login

• Did you know that the EU has banned thousands of chemicals in personal care products, that are still allowed in the United States? Personal care products can be loaded with endocrine disruptors, so choose cleaner options. And be careful of things that are "Green Washed", meaning they are branded as botanical or natural, but still contain a lot of chemicals. Look for a shorter list of ingredients, with things that you can recognize and pronounce.

• Ditch the plastic cooking utensils! I love these: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08CSHS3N9/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_30NGEG6YDV1YABC6H0YC?linkCode=ml1&tag=pleasantwelln-20

• PFCs are in non-stick cookware and microwave popcorn bags. For cookware we use ceramic or stainless steel. For popcorn, I make it on the stove in a stainless steel pot.

• STOP USING DRYER SHEETS. I put a little white vinegar in the bleach compartment of my washing machine to soften clothes, and use these wool dryer balls in the dryer: https://amzn.to/4cyjW79

• For home cleaning, a mix of vinegar and water in a glass spray bottle often works great. It's cheap and avoids a lot of harsh chemicals. You can add a couple of drops of lemon essential oil for a more pleasant smell. Fullscript also has a lot of cleaner products available.

• Avoid plastic food storage containers. I bought a nice set from Sam's Club with snap lids that we love. Just make sure and let the food cool first, since the lids are plastic.

• Are you buying hot drinks to go? The steam from the hot beverage meets the plastic and then you breath that in when taking a drink. It's best to take the lid off before taking a drink.

  
  

  This is not an exhaustive list. I usually teach my clients to start with some of the things that are easiest to change. I know it can be overwhelming when you start thinking of all the places you are exposed to endocrine disruptors. It's important not to stress about it, because stress isn't good for you either! Just be mindful, and take baby steps. For a more detailed list, this is a great article: https://draxe.com/health/endocrine-disruptors-how-to-avoid-excess-estrogen/

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