In my book, A Practical Guide to Managing Erectile Dysfunction, I discuss endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs). In short, they disrupt your endocrine system, which governs hormones like testosterone and estradiol. Many of these chemicals mimic estrogen. They are everywhere in our environment. The old motto we have lived by, "better living through chemistry," never considered whether these useful chemicals are toxic.
Here is a brief discussion on these chemicals, where they are found, and how to avoid them.
Common Endocrine Disrupting Compounds (EDCs)
Phthalates:
They are found in plastic containers, toys, and cosmetics and cause hormone disruption and damage reproductive issues.
Parabens:
They are found in cosmetics, shampoos, and lotions and mimic estrogen, causing endocrine disruption.
Triclosan:
They are found in hand sanitizers and toothpaste, causing endocrine disruption and antibiotic resistance.
Perfluorinated Chemicals (PFOA):
They are found in nonstick cookware, causing hormone disruption, and are a potential carcinogen.
Bisphenol A (BPA) and Bisphenol S (BPS):
They are found in Plastic containers and thermal paper receipts and cause Hormone disruption. A word of warning: Most containers that say "BPA Free" contain BPS, which is even worse than BPA.
Organophosphates:
They are found in pesticide residues on fruits and vegetables, causing neurotoxicity and endocrine disruption.
Heavy Metals (Lead, Mercury):
They are found in older paint and some fish, causing neurotoxicity and developmental issues.
Phytoestrogens (Genistein):
They are found in Soy-based food supplements and cause endocrine disruption via hormone mimicry.
Aluminum:
Found in antiperspirants, causing potential neurotoxicity and potential endocrine disruption.
How does one avoid exposure to these chemicals?
Get plastic out of your kitchen. Do not cook in, eat with it, or store food in it. Look into silicon, glass, ceramic, and metal products as a substitute.
Do not use nonstick cookware.
Eat organic foods. If that is not practical, wash your food very well.
Do not eat soy-based foods.
Be very careful about the fish you consume.
Do not use antiperspirants. I cannot suggest a natural alternative to antiperspirants. I do recommend using colloidal silver as a natural deodorant. (I've found it the most effective deodorant I've ever used.)
Use natural alternatives for toothpaste and personal care products. In my book, I list some resources for natural personal care products.
Recommended Resources
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