In the United States, chemicals are used in a surprising number of routine, everyday tasks, such as cleaning, bathing, makeup application, and cooking, and can even be found in municipal water supplies. Since chemicals are so widely used, many often disregard the fact that the consistent use of and exposure to most types of chemicals can be hazardous to our health.
Additionally, many don’t know that regular exposure to chemicals can wreak havoc on our body’s hormone levels. Chemicals that are consumed, inhaled, and applied to the skin topically can trigger major hormone imbalance, and also result in weight gain and life-threatening health problems.
Take a look at the types of everyday chemicals that can trigger hormone imbalance, and stop exposing yourself to them immediately so you can maintain your body’s hormone levels.
Bisphenol A (BPA)
BPA is a type of chemical used to make most plastic products, and can also be found in some canned goods and on thermal receipt paper. The FDA actually recommends that people limit their exposure to BPA by avoiding plastic goods that are labeled with recycling numbers 3 or 7. When buying plastic goods such as dishware and drinking cups, look for products labeled as BPA-free.
Dioxins
Dioxins are a group of toxic chemicals produced as a result of combustion, such as during municipal waste incineration and during the burning of fuels such as wood, coal and oil. Dioxins are also produced during the processing of animal food products. Stop eating animal food products such as eggs and meats that are not organic to reduce your exposure to dioxins.
Arsenic
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), arsenic enters our municipal water supply through the erosion of natural deposits and runoff from orchards and glass and electronics production wastes. Buy water filters for the sinks in your home to filter out arsenic and limit your exposure to this hazardous and deadly chemical.
Phthalates
Phthalates are toxins found in most beauty products, such as lotion, foundation, lipstick, eyeliner, eyeshadow, and more. Phthalates can trigger the destruction of your immune system, especially when used long-term. Start using organic and all-natural beauty products, or eat healthy foods and exercise often to give your skin a healthy glow without the use of makeup!
Perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs)
PFCs are the chemicals used in non-stick cooking accessories. PFCs are biodegradable, which means that every time you cook with a non-stick pan, you may be consuming tiny doses of these chemicals. Swap out all your non-stick cooking accessories as soon as possible, and resort to using healthy cooking oils such as olive oil to prevent foods from sticking to the bottom of your pans.
Glycol ethers
Glycol ethers are the types of chemicals found in common household cleaning products and paint. Regular exposure to glycol ethers can result in low sperm count and infertility. Swap out all your cleaning products with all-natural counterparts, or use white vinegar as an all-natural cleaning solution. The Environmental Working Group also recommends avoiding household cleaning products that contain 2-butoxyethanol (EGBE) and methoxydiglycol (DEGME).
Rock Creek Wellness offers bioidentical hormone replacement therapy for both men and women who need help sustaining their hormone levels. Our pellet hormone program is designed for patients seeking a quick and affordable entry to bioidentical hormone therapy in Kansas City. Contact us today at 913-727-7700 to request a free consultation.
