The Dangers of Xenoestrogens

Xenoestrogens are estrogen-like compounds found in chemicals like pesticides, home-cleaning products, plastics, and food. These compounds resemble the naturally occurring hormone estrogen and can bind to estrogen receptors in our bodies and alter hormonal activity. There are over 70,000 chemicals registered for use in the United States. We are constantly assaulted by these chemicals daily. Europe has banned many of these chemicals like the compound atrazine, which has been banned since the 1980s. Atrazine is a powerful herbicide used on corn and sugarcane crops.

Plants also contain xenoestrogens and are called phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens can be beneficial for some conditions. There is conflicting evidence on the benefits and downsides of consuming many phytoestrogens. Soy is a phytoestrogen and can be found in many processed foods like oils, milk, yogurt, frozen foods, supplements, and more.

Overconsumption and chronic exposure to xenoestrogens can cause many adverse side effects such as acne, hair loss, weight gain, uterine fibroid tumors, fibrocystic breasts, and depression. These symptoms are called estrogen dominance in women and are the result of a severe hormonal imbalance. There is a growing body of evidence to suggest that exposure to compounds that mimic hormonal regulation in humans leads to chronic health conditions. Xenoestrogens may contribute to low testosterone levels in men, prostate enlargement, abnormal growth of the mammary glands in men, low libido, and many other hormone-related changes.

The most common xenoestrogens are DDT, PCB, BPA or bisphenol A and sulfates. Also look for words like Methylparaben, alkylphenol, red dye #3, 4-MBC, and PBDEs. This list is by no means complete. It is worth a google search to find a full list. Many of these compounds can be found in skincare products as well. Food products from pork, beef, and dairy cows that have been given growth hormones can also contain xenoestrogens. It is illegal to give chickens growth hormones, but they can be given antibiotics. Antibiotics given to livestock are stored in the animal’s fat cells. When you eat products from these animals, you are consuming excess antibiotics, which can lead to hormonal imbalances, killing off good gut bacteria, and bacterial resistance.

Although phytoestrogens are naturally occurring compounds, that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be aware of the potential for estrogen dominance. Soy is a perfect example of a phytoestrogen contained in many processed foods. If consumed in abundance with chronic exposure to xenoestrogens, a perfect storm of hormonal imbalance occurs.

Girls as young as 9 and 10 are starting to menstruate, much earlier than the typical age. Other signs of excess estrogen in women include irregular menstrual cycles, endometriosis, infertility, and hormonal headaches. Another sign of high estrogen is extra weight around the hips, thighs, and low abdomen, and difficulty losing weight. Breast, endometrial, or uterine cancer can be a result of estrogen dominance. Autoimmune disorders, including lupus and thyroiditis, have also been linked to estrogen dominance and other hormone imbalances.

Rid yourself of excess estrogen!

Although it may seem overwhelming, taking baby steps to eliminate xenoestrogens can be simpler than you think.

1. Drink plenty of water from stainless steel or glass containers.

2. Completely remove cooking with soybean oil.

3. Limit intake of soy products

4. Exercise several times a week. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity

5. Consume a variety of vegetables

6. Limit processed and fast food

7. Reduce sugar intake!

Eating healthy is not just to control weight. Eating healthy leads to hormonal balance. Be mindful of the foods you eat, especially if you consume processed food from packages or ready-made meals. Those foods are often the worst at containing xenoestrogens and phytoestrogens. Don’t think of food as just calories. Food is much more than energy for our bodies. It provides vital nutrients to keep us alive and active. Imagine how well you could live if you were mindful of the food you consumed. Eat to live; don’t live to eat!

Originally published at https://pharmd-fitness.com.